Tag: contraception

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Birth Control Health Sexual Health

Birth Control and Infertility: Reversible Birth Control Can’t Cause Infertility or Affect Future Pregnancy — Here’s Why

birth control and infertility

Reversible birth control has no effect on fertility 

No, reversible hormonal contraceptives will not cause infertility or affect your future pregnancies, regardless of which method you’re on (i.e. birth control pills, patch, vaginal ring, IUD) or how long you’ve been using it.

Most women gradually regain fertility and are just as likely to conceive as women who have never been on birth control. Only sterilisation is considered a permanent and irreversible birth control method.

A 3-year study conducted to uncover the association between oral contraceptive use and the time to pregnancy revealed that long-term use of oral contraceptives did not affect the ability to conceive in the future. This same study of 3,727 participants even found that longer-term use of combined oral contraceptives was associated with a greater likelihood of pregnancy.

In a separate study of 2,000 women who planned to conceive after being on the birth control pill for seven years, 21% of the women managed to conceive within one cycle. After stopping birth control, approximately 80% of the women were pregnant within a year. 

Benefits of birth control

Perhaps, you haven’t heard of the wide range of health benefits that come from using birth control. Many women also use it to manage their migraines, relieve menstrual cramps and cope with painful disorders like endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). 

Especially if you’re sexually active but aren’t ready for kids yet, birth control is one of your best options. Used perfectly, most methods are at least 99 percent effective and safe, helping you to prevent unwanted pregnancies! 

So why is infertility still a persistent myth?

You may be wondering if this long-standing myth has some truth to it. After all, it’s a pretty common misconception and you’re bound to hear about it. While birth control doesn’t affect fertility, there are a few reasons why some may assume otherwise. 

1. Fertility delay

You should resume your menstrual cycle within about three months of stopping reversible hormonal contraceptives, if not earlier. However, depending on the contraceptive used and the individual person, there could be a fertility delay that makes it seem as if birth control has adverse effects on your reproductive health. 

According to research, it’s possible to experience a short-term fertility delay of two to six months once you’re off oral contraceptives. This shouldn’t be a huge problem but if you’re concerned, it’s best to speak with your doctor.

A longer delay of menstruation that lasts at least six months after you stop taking oral contraceptives may mean you’re experiencing post-pill amenorrhea. For some, it can take longer than usual for their body to start producing the hormones essential for ovulation and menstruation again, even after stopping the pill. Despite its medical term, this is usually not due to birth control use, but rather an underlying health condition or simply your body’s natural reaction. (Source: Healthline) 

2. Underlying health conditions

Birth control’s primary function is to release synthetic hormones that trick your body into thinking you’re on a menstrual cycle despite overriding your own body’s natural hormonal cycle. Sometimes, this may mask certain health issues that lead to anovulation (lack or absence of ovulation) or irregular ovulation. 

Several health conditions include: 

  • High levels of stress
  • Hyperprolactinemia 
  • Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism 
  • Low body weight 
  • Obesity 
  • Premature ovarian insufficiency 
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

If you think you may be suffering from any of the above conditions, or experience a lack of menstruation, heavy bleeding or irregular period cycles, speak with a healthcare professional immediately. The longer you leave an underlying health condition untreated, the longer and harder it might become to conceive.

3. Age

If you’ve been on birth control since you were a teen and find it hard to conceive now that you’re older, birth control’s not to blame! It’s definitely not because you’re a long-term birth control user. 

Fertility changes with age and a woman’s peak reproductive years are usually between the late teens and late 20s. Hence, women tend to face a decrease in fertility by age 30 which becomes more rapid as they grow older. By 45, it’ll be challenging and unlikely for women to naturally become pregnant. 

You may not know this but women are actually born with a fixed number of eggs in their ovaries, which is estimated to be around two million. As they grow older, the number of eggs decreases. Upon hitting puberty, it would have already decreased to about 400,000 eggs! 

As the remaining eggs in older women are likely to contain abnormal chromosomes, there is also a higher risk of fertility-related disorders like uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths of the uterus) and endometriosis. 

Essentially, female fertility can be affected by age as both the quality and quantity of eggs decline.

When should I forgo reversible birth control if I’m trying to conceive?

It doesn’t matter if you’re a short-term or long-term birth control user. As long as you’re off birth control, your body should naturally start to ovulate again.

If you’re trying to conceive and have already come off birth control for a few months, don’t worry if you’re not pregnant yet. Sometimes, this can take anywhere from a few months up to a year.

But if your menstrual cycle doesn’t resume for an extended period of time after stopping birth control, you may want to consider seeking professional help. 

Comparing birth control methods: how long it takes to become fertile again

Birth Control Method Duration
The combination pill and the mini pill– Your menstrual cycle should resume once you stop taking the pill
– Can take up to three months
Hormonal or copper IUD– Your menstrual cycle should resume within a month after removal
– Can take up to three months
The vaginal ring and contraceptive patchYour menstrual cycle should resume within the normal three months after discontinuing use 
The contraceptive injection or shotYour menstrual cycle can take up to a year to resume

Some parting advice 

Although it may take longer for some to resume their natural menstrual cycle after stopping reversible hormonal contraception, this is usually a temporary delay. Generally, long-term birth control use will also not affect your ability to conceive at a later stage. 

So relax and give your body some time to readjust! If you’re still worried or simply want to find out more about your birth control options, don’t hesitate to connect with one of Siena’s doctors today.

References: 

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Birth Control Emergency Contraception Health Sexual Health

Missed Birth Control Pills: What To Do If You Forget Your Pills?

Credit: Illustration by Siena Health

Realising you missed your birth control pills can be a scary and stressful experience, and we know that. So here’s a step-by-step guide on what you can do to ease your worries! 

Perhaps you were running late and in a moment of panic, you couldn’t afford to indulge in your regular morning routine. Or you didn’t purchase your refills in time and realised it was way too late. 

Whichever’s the case, missing your birth control pills can most definitely leave you in a flurry, especially when you have devoted yourself to it. But alas, it happens so don’t beat yourself up about it! Thankfully, there are ways to manage this (mini) crisis. 

If you missed your pills, your next line of action should take into consideration:

  • Number of pills you have missed 
  • When you missed the pill (how far in are you with your pack)
  • Type of birth control pill you’re on (combined contraceptive pill or the progestogen-only pill)

The information leaflet that comes with your contraceptive pills should also have stated specific instructions on the steps you should take regarding the specific brand of birth control you are on. 

Symptoms you may notice if you missed your pills 

If you aren’t 100% sure, there are several symptoms that are pretty clear indicators you missed taking your birth control pills. The most common side effect is light bleeding or starting your period. You may experience menstrual cramps and nausea associated with it. 

Typically, there’s nothing to worry about and everything should return to normal once you’re back on the contraceptive pills regularly!

Combined contraceptive pill

The combined contraceptive pill contains both estrogen and progestin. There is a great variety of combined contraceptive pills you can choose from but some of the common combination pill brand names include Yaz, Yasmin, Microgynon 30, Liza, Mercilon and Drospera. A combination pill is considered “missed” if you don’t take it for 24 hours or more after you were supposed to. 

If you are late (less than 24 hours) or missed (24 to 48 hours) an active pill

You’re still protected against pregnancy if you missed 1 pill anywhere in the pack or started a new pack 1 day (24 hours) late. 

Follow these steps:

  1. Take the late or missed pill immediately
  2. Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day)
  3. Take the 7-day pill-free break as prescribed or if you’re on an everyday pill, take the inactive pills 
  4. Emergency contraception is not usually needed but can be considered if hormonal pills were missed earlier in the cycle or in the last week of the previous cycle
  5. No additional contraceptive protection (e.g. condoms) needed

If you missed two or more active pills (48 hours or more)

When this happens, it greatly increases your chances of ovulation. In this case, when you missed 2 or more active pills anywhere in the pack or started a new pack only after 2 days (48 hours) or more, you may not be protected against pregnancy. 

What you should do:

  1. Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day 
  2. Discard any earlier missed pills 
  3. If the missed pill is within: 
    • Week 1 (pills 1 to 7) or Week 2 (pills 8 to 14) of the pack:
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • Take the inactive (sugar) pills or a 7-day break
      • Begin a new pack the next day
    • Week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 21): 
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • When you have finished taking all the active pills, discard the pack
      • Don’t take the inactive (sugar) pills or a 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day
  4. Consider taking emergency contraception if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days
  5. Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex for the next 7 days 

If you missed inactive pills 

If you miss 1 or more inactive (sugar) pills, simply throw away the missed pills and take the next pill at the usual time. Remember, you also have to stay on track with your active pills as there should be no more than 7 consecutive active pill-free days between packs.  

Missed birth control pills: a brief overview

ScenarioRecommended ActionsEmergency ContraceptionBack-up Birth Control
Late or missed 1 active pill– Take the late or missed pill immediately
– Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day).		Consider only if you missed the pill earlier in the pack or in the last week of your previous packNot required
Missed 2 or more active pills– Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day
– Discard any earlier missed pills 

If you missed the pill within week 1 – 2 of the pack (pills 1 to 14):
– Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
– Take the inactive (sugar) pills or a 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day

If you missed the pill within week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 21):
– Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
– Skip the inactive (sugar) pills or 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day		Consider only if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days.Use extra contraception or abstain from sex for the next 7 days 
Missed 1 or more inactive pills– Discard missed pills and take the next pill at the usual timeNot requiredNot required

Progestogen-only pill or mini pill 

Unlike the combined contraceptive pill, progestogen-only pills (aka mini pills) contain progestin and not estrogen. They are taken continuously without any hormone-free breaks. 

If you missed a pill within the 3-hour (mini pills) or 12-hour window period (desogestrel pill)

You will still be protected against pregnancy if you are: 

  • Less than 3 hours late in taking a progestogen-only pill
  • Less than 12 hours late in taking a desogestrel pill

What you should do: 

  1. Take your missed pill as soon as you remember 
  2. Take your next pill at the usual time 
  3. There’s no need for an additional form of contraception or emergency contraception even if you’ve had unprotected sex

If you missed a pill for more than 3 hours (mini pills) or 12 hours (desogestrel pill)

Heads-up, according to the National Health Service, you’re likely unprotected against pregnancy! 

What you should do: 

  1. Take 1 pill as soon as you remember even if you have missed more than 1 pill
  2. Take your next pill at the usual time – this may mean taking 2 pills in a day (1 when you remember and the other at the usual time) which is totally okay to do so 
  3. Continue taking your remaining pills daily at the same time 
  4. You may need emergency contraception if you’ve had unprotected sex in the last 5 days
  5. Use back-up contraceptives for the next 2 days (48 hours) after taking the missed pills or simply refrain from having sex 

Useful tips to help you remember to take your pills on time

Whether or not you’re trying out a new routine to remind yourself to take the pill or ensuring you’re way more well-equipped after your first “missed birth control pill” scare, the following list of tips we’ve compiled will definitely help you.  

  • Opt for another birth control method such as the patch as it only needs to be changed once a week 
  • Set a recurring alarm or reminder on your phone 
  • Use a birth control pill reminder application 
  • Incorporate it into your daily routine 
  • Place the pills in an easily noticeable spot (e.g. bedside table, beside your toothbrush)
  • Get your partner to remind you

Seek help if you need to

We totally get that it can be real confusing knowing you missed your pill and the follow-up steps taken vary depending on what type of birth control pill you’re on. But hopefully, this condensed guide can be your saving grace in times of need (and that you won’t be referencing it anytime soon!).

Feel free to reach out to Siena’s doctors, if you are unsure which instructions pertain to your oral contraceptive pills or to discuss any other concerns you may have with your birth control method. 

References:

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Birth Control Health Period

Managing Migraines with Birth Control

Do you frequently experience migraines that frustrate the life out of you? Learn more about its causes and how birth control can help you cope.

Two types of headaches that are linked to your menstrual cycles

Tension headaches 

There are different types of headaches that vary in terms of their causes and nature of pain. But one of the most common forms of headache pain (aka tension headaches) may be linked to your menstrual cycle. The pain resulting from tension headaches tends to spread across both sides of the head and you’ll also experience slight pressure.

A study conducted among 165 female patients established menstrual tension-type headache as a real disorder that could represent a variant of migraine headaches. Thus, some women do experience tension headaches around the time of their period.

Menstrual migraines

Women who experience migraines reported that the attacks usually occur either right before or during their periods. This is also known as menstrual migraine. (Source: The Migraine Trust) 

A migraine is not merely a severe headache. Rather, migraine is a disabling neurological disease and headaches are only one symptom of migraines that can range in severity and length. It usually starts off as a one-sided throbbing headache, alongside other symptoms like nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, and increased sensitivity to light, sound or smells. 

More often than not, migraine attacks can be spontaneous as well. Thus, it is easier to detect the causes of headaches as migraines typically have several common triggers without a single cause. These triggers may vary depending on individuals:

  • Gender and hormonal shifts: Menstrual cycles and hormonal changes can cause menstrual migraines. In fact, migraine is three times more common among women than men and in the United States, it affects approximately 37% of women during their reproductive years. 
  • Allergies: Body irritation and inflammation as migraines are associated with the inflammation of blood vessels. 
  • Family history and genes: There’s often a hereditary link so you’re more likely to experience migraines if you have family members who suffer from the same problem.
  • The environment: This covers a wide range of factors from changes in weather, stress, lack of sleep and even food.

Why you may experience headaches or migraines around the time of your period

Hormonal imbalance

The cause of menstrual migraines is best explained by a drop in estrogen levels during your period whereby sensitivity toward such hormonal fluctuations makes you more vulnerable to migraines. It can also happen if you’re pregnant or going through menopause.

Low iron levels

Another reason why you may experience headaches after your period is because of low iron levels after shedding blood and tissue during your period. Especially for those who usually experience heavy period flow, greater loss of blood may cause iron deficiencies and thus trigger headaches.

Hormonal treatment to prevent migraines

Maintaining hormone levels during your period

Birth control like the combination pill, progestin-only pill, patch and even vaginal ring are forms of treatments that can help to relieve symptoms of migraine through hormonal balancing. Not only do they help to stabilise estrogen levels by regulating hormones throughout your menstrual cycle, but they also reduce uncomfortable period symptoms. Low-dose estrogen birth control pills are normally recommended to prevent migraines as you can avoid experiencing a sharp drop in hormone levels during your period.

Skipping periods

Otherwise, you may also choose to opt for a continuous dose of the pill to reduce the likelihood of migraines. This essentially means you continue taking active, low-dose estrogen pills instead of placebo pills during the seven inactive days. Thus, the steady dose of estrogen should prevent the drop in hormones that usually occurs once you stop taking active pills on inactive days. Altogether, this should help you reduce the severity and frequency of migraines while experiencing lesser withdrawal bleeding. 

If you’re on birth control that comes with the sugar (placebo) pills, simply skip them and start a new pack so that hormones are continuously released into your bloodstream. 

That’s right, birth control isn’t just for preventing pregnancy as skipping periods may even improve your quality of life because of certain benefits! Besides potentially preventing migraines and headaches, birth control can also reduce symptoms associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and symptoms of your periods like menstrual cramps, bloating and even acne.

Lifestyle changes to cope with migraines

Although there’s no single cure for migraine, lifestyle changes can help you counter the negative effects. This includes: 

  • Regular exercise 
  • Adopting a healthy diet to avoid trigger foods 
  • Improving sleep habits 
  • Practising relaxation techniques (e.g. yoga, meditation) 

Keeping a journal or record of your migraine episodes can also help you track patterns such as the duration and symptoms to identify potential causes. You’ll definitely be more well-equipped to deal with your migraines by recognising and avoiding triggers.

Need help?

If you do have a history of migraines, it’s best to consult a doctor before you begin a new birth control method. With Siena, you can even have your consults online and preferred birth control delivered straight to your doorstep for free!

References: 


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Birth Control Sexual Health

Birth Control Patch: 7 Facts You Should Know

Credit: Illustration by Siena Health

Don’t shy away from the birth control patch! Simple and convenient, it’s a seamless integration into your everyday routine and here are the reasons why.

With a variety of birth control to choose from, you may or may not have overlooked the birth control patch as another great alternative for your contraception needs. Or perhaps you’re unfamiliar with how the patch works and would rather stick to methods you’re used to. Nevertheless, the birth control patch is meant to be just as effective as birth control pills and may even be easier to use. 

A quick survey of the local landscape surrounding birth control based on a 2016 survey study: Singaporean women have low awareness and knowledge of hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD), the patch and the vaginal ring. This was the first survey study that assessed Singaporean women’s awareness and knowledge of contraception in Singapore. Thus, there were only a sparse few who actually used the patch. (Source: Singapore Medical Journal) 

Even though the patch may not be as popular as condoms or the pills, it works just the same in helping you prevent pregnancy. Especially if you dislike popping pills or if you’re afraid of going through with bigger commitments such as the implants and IUD, the patch is a perfect midway option. 

Read on as we cover how the birth control patch works, its benefits, and more!

1. The patch works by delivering hormones through your skin and into your bloodstream

Similar to birth control pills, the birth control patch contains two hormones estrogen and progesterone, which work together to prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation. When you wear the patch, it releases these hormones which your body subsequently absorbs through the skin.

The patch is able to stop ovulation while the hormones in the patch also thicken the cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. The hormones also thin the uterine lining which makes the implantation of a fertilised egg difficult.

Similar to birth control pills, the birth control patch is 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy with perfect usage. But in real-life conditions, such as incorrect application or forgetting to replace the patch, they become about 91 percent effective. In comparison to the pill, however, the patch is a great alternative if you find daily pill-popping a hassle.

2. The patch is designed to be fun-sized and discreet 

Image credit: Siena Health

The birth control patch looks like a plaster, as it is a small and sticky square patch that is usually thin and beige in colour.

Worried about them being too obvious? You can apply them to the skin on your upper outer arm, abdomen, buttocks or upper torso. Take note: do not apply the birth control patch to your breasts or somewhere easily irritated by clothing.

3. You only need to think of the patch once a week

Application

The following steps are really important to ensure you use the patch accurately and effectively. 

Firstly, open the pouch containing the patch and remove the protective film. Apply the sticky side of the patch onto your skin by exerting slight pressure for at least 10 seconds to ensure it is properly attached before smoothing out any wrinkles. 

Thereafter, you can change your birth control patch each week over a period of three weeks and go without the patch during the fourth week. Similar to getting your period, you’ll experience withdrawal bleeding. After the fourth week has ended, start your next cycle with a new patch.

For first-time users of the patch 

Once the birth control patch has been prescribed to you, apply the first patch during the first 24 hours of your period. It becomes effective immediately after application within the first five days of your period. And yes, now you don’t have to worry about relying on any other back-up contraceptive methods! 

Alternatively, if you decide to use the first patch on the first Sunday after your period has started or you apply your first patch more than five days after your period started, the patch will not take effect immediately. Meanwhile, you should use an additional form of contraception (i.e. condoms) for the next seven days.  

Mark your calendars — note down the first day you apply the birth control patch and designate it as your next “patch-change” day! 

Each patch lasts for seven days so you’ll have to keep it on throughout and replace the patch exactly one week from the date you first applied it.

Extra tips:

  • Apply the patch on completely clean and dry skin
  • Avoid using lotion, oil, powder and makeup on the area you plan to apply the patch to
  • Try to store your unused birth control patches in a dry and room-temperature environment away from direct sunlight
  • Do not remove the patch from the pouch if you don’t intend to use it yet

4. Fuss-free removal process

Image credit: wikiHow

To remove the birth control patch, all you need to do is peel off the old one and replace it with a new one. It’s best to fold the adhesive sides of the old patch together before disposal so that it is not exposed. Do not flush the patch in the toilet as this may contaminate the water supply with hormones.

5. Do daily checks on your patch

This is an unlikely scenario as the birth control patch is designed to be firmly attached to your skin. You can safely shower, exercise and even swim with the patch. 

But in the event the patch does come loose or fall off, there are ways to get back on track! 

Prone to bad memory and sticking to a schedule? Don’t freak out because even if you really do forget to change your patch and it’s been less than two days (48 hours), just reapply a patch immediately and subsequently change your patch on the same day as the previous patch. If it’s only come loose, you can stick it back on and continue using it. 

However, if the patch has come off for more than two days or you’re unsure how long it has been since the patch fell off, reapply a new patch immediately and use another birth control method for at least a week. You’ll also have to begin a new four-week cycle and take note of the day you applied the replacement patch. The day on which you apply the new patch will be the new “first day” of the new application cycle. 

It’s uncommon for the birth control patch to fall off if you’ve followed the instructions closely. To prevent it from happening, try to cultivate a habit of checking your patch daily to ensure it’s still firmly attached to your skin. If the patch does not completely stick to your skin, immediately replace it with a new patch.

There is also a handy tool available online if you ever lose track of your birth control schedule and require help ASAP! 

6. The patch has other non-contraceptive benefits 

Similar to the benefits of other forms of hormonal birth control, the hormones in the patch can also help to lighten and regulate your periods while alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It can even lower the risks of developing cysts in your breasts and ovaries. (Source: Planned Parenthood)

7. You can use your birth control patch to skip your period

A long-awaited holiday trip coming up? Attending a pool party in a couple of weeks? Or simply longing to head to the beach? With the birth control patch, you can be sure to leave all your period worries behind during times like these!

If you’d like to skip your period altogether, use the patch every week. This means starting a new pack of patches every three weeks without any break in between (i.e. continue using the patch during the fourth week). By doing this, the constant stream of hormones in your bloodstream eliminates your monthly withdrawal bleed.

What are you waiting for? 

Surely by now, you’re more familiar with the various upsides of the birth control patch and why it’s so convenient and easily reversible! Using the patch is definitely an effortless and painless process since it only needs to be applied once a week.

Feel free to check in with any of Siena’s female doctors before trying out or switching to a new birth control method. We’re most happy to help you find your most suitable, discreet and favoured birth control!

References:

Categories
Birth Control Health

Does Birth Control Make You Gain Weight?

The truth about birth control and weight gain: it is largely due to water retention instead of actual increase in body fat! 

Are you reluctant to get birth control because you believe it may cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a common risk that most women are afraid of when it comes to birth control. And we do recognise why this may be a cause of concern. It’s one of those side effects you’re bound to constantly debate about with your girlfriends and still come to no clear conclusion at the end of the day.

But is this necessarily true? 

With a wide range of birth control options available now, it’s inevitable different individuals may react differently as well. Especially as birth control is more effective if you use it consistently, weight gain is also attributed to other factors such as lifestyle habits and routines or changes in metabolism as you age.

Most women don’t experience weight gain 

This may come as a form of reassurance but the majority of people on birth control do not actually experience weight gain. Any initial increase in weight is due to water retention rather than an increase in body fat and mass. As birth control may initially lead to water retention, you may feel a little bloated at the start. These effects are temporary and go away within a few weeks after starting birth control.

In fact, a 2008 study of 150 female athletes over two years found that oral contraceptives did not cause weight or fat mass gain. Similarly, a 2014 systematic review revealed that there was no significant causal relationship between weight gain and combination contraceptives as women taking birth control, compared with those in the placebo group, showed no substantial difference in weight.  

All in all, the hormones in birth control may trigger bodily changes but the idea that birth control leads to lasting weight gain is not a factual claim. 

Higher estrogen levels

Combined hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches and even the vaginal ring typically contain estrogen which prevents ovulation. This occurs as a compound (renin-angiotensin) created by the kidneys becomes stimulated because of the additional estrogen circulating throughout your body. This prompts your body to retain more fluid before your period. Essentially, higher estrogen levels may lead to a slightly higher level of water retention for those on the pill. However, there will usually be a decrease in weight after your period is over. 

Most birth control pills have approximately 30 to 35 micrograms of hormones but if you’re worried about the current dosage of estrogen in your pills, it’s best to consult your doctor and opt for a low-dose estrogen pill which will contain around 20 micrograms of estrogen.  

Higher doses of estrogen can potentially stimulate appetite, which may cause increased calorie intake in some women. 

Birth control implants and shots may be exceptions 

Hormonal implants, which are a form of long-term, reversible birth control may cause weight gain. This method works by inserting an implant into your arm, thereby releasing a synthetic hormone called etonogestrel into your bloodstream. Etonogestrel imitates progesterone by attempting to regulate your menstrual cycle alongside estrogen. 

Birth control shots can contribute to an increase in weight gain from water retention as its effects are meant to last for three months. Alternatively, you may want to opt for low-dose estrogen birth control pills instead. 

A final note

Always check with your doctor if you’re worried about the potential side effects or switching to a new type of birth control that fits your lifestyle. Other plausible causes for sudden weight gain may also be due to underlying health conditions such as thyroid disorders and diabetes. If you do experience bloating, keep in mind it is only temporary and there are other ways you can cope!

Here are some tips on how to reduce water retention: 

  • Lesser salt intake 
  • Staying well-hydrated 
  • Exercise consistently to move your muscles 
  • Wearing compression stockings during prolonged standing 

At Siena, we want to find the most effective and suitable birth control for you that also steers you away as much as possible from any unwanted side effects! Speak to any of our female doctors now from the comfort of your own home to explore your options.

References:

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Birth Control Sexual Health

Birth Control Before The Pill: How Women Prevented Pregnancy Throughout History

Discover a brief history of contraception before the invention of the birth control pill. You’ll be surprised to know about various bizarre and ancient methods!

Birth control options are now more than ever readily accessible in both physical and online spaces. But have you ever wondered how it was like for women in the past when technology wasn’t a thing yet? Read on and I imagine you will count yourselves lucky to be living in the 21st century. Now, you can even get your birth control online and delivered right to your doorstep.

Ancient birth control methods, no thanks!

Commonly used traditional methods comprise largely home-made techniques, some of which may (or may not) surprise you. In the ancient era, women relied on disturbing ingredients like crocodile dung, and bizarre concoctions of edibles such as honey and acacia. Condoms were made from animal membranes and there was a common practice of washing and soaking one’s genitals with ingredients like lemon and olive oil. Lastly, a deadly-sounding method even includes ingesting lead and mercury. Otherwise, before the discovery of chemical and hormonal contraception, the traditional withdrawal (pull-out) method was just as common back then. 

British artist William Blake’s depiction of King Minos. Image credit: National Gallery of Victoria

What about the trusty “wetsuit”? The first known documentation of the use of condoms was by King Minos of Crete in about 3000 B.C. Apparently, his semen contained “serpents and scorpions” which killed his mistresses after intercourse. Back then, condoms were subjected to primitive ideals and definitely did not come in the clean, rubber form we are now accustomed to. Thus, as a form of protection, a goat’s bladder was inserted in the vagina of King Minos’ wife to act as a sheath. Essentially, animal bladders were primarily employed to prevent the contraction of venereal diseases rather than to prevent pregnancy. Resourceful or downright nasty? You decide. 

Finally (and thankfully), rubber was introduced in the manufacturing of condoms which brought about real technological advances. By the 1860s, there was a rise in the large-scale production and popular use of latex condoms, altogether replacing skin condoms made from animal intestines or bladder. 

The battle for birth control

Despite being normally associated with family planning, birth control faced resistance in the 1800s. Many perceived contraception as immoral and akin to encouraging prostitution. (Source: Stanford Medicine)

In fact, under the Comstock Act of 1873 in the United States, even medically prescribed writings or materials regarding contraception and abortion were made illegal as they were seen as obscene and indecent. As a result, the enforcement of the sale and distribution of materials concerning birth control eventually prompted social reformers to advocate the repealing of the federal law. Before the birth control movement became closely tied to the feminist movement, worry-free and safe sex were pretty out of reach for women in those days.

From the 1940s to 1950s, activists Margaret Sanger and Katharine McCormick embarked on a vigorous scientific research in search for the pill that could potentially control fertility. Oh boy did this cause a shift in the previously uneven level playing field for women to take charge of their sexual health. The first invented pill was both effective and simple to use, thus attracting millions of women to partake the first of oral contraceptives. (Source: Planned Parenthood Federation of America) 

Implants such as the intrauterine device (IUD) also made their mark in history since 1909. IUDs were first experimented using a ring made of silkworm gut with two protruding ends of the cervical os. Subsequently, other physicians such as Ernest Graefenberg (FYI: the G-spot was named after him), developed similar versions that proved more effective with the use of a mixture of metals including copper. Ultimately, it was only in the 1980s did the FDA-approved Copper-T gain more significant traction as one of the most effective and safest forms of contraception. 

Revolutionary effects

Needless to say, birth control has improved drastically and we should all be grateful for today’s plethora of reliable birth control methods to choose from. Beyond mere access to birth control pills, other forms of birth control such as patches and emergency contraception have likewise allowed women all around the world to be empowered, educated and take charge of their own health.

References:
Armitage, H. (2018). Contraception: An evolution and history. Stanford Medicine. https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2018/05/16/contraception-evolving-the-options/

Burnette, B.R. (2009). Comstock Act of 1873 (1873). The First Amendment Encyclopedia. https://www.mtsu.edu/first-amendment/article/1038/comstock-act-of-1873#:~:text=%2C%20public%20domain

Khan, F., Mukhtar, S., Sriprasad, S., & Dickinson, I. K. (2013). The story of the condom. Indian Journal of Urology, 29(1), 12-15. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-1591.109976

Margulies, L. (1975). History of intrauterine devices. Bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine, 51(5), 662-667. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1093589/

Marhol, A. (2021). Ancient Birth Control Methods: How Did Women Prevent Pregnancy Throughout the Ages? Flo. flo.health/menstrual-cycle/sex/birth-control/ancient-birth-control-methods

Planned Parenthood Federation of America. (2015). Birth Control – History of the Pill. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/files/1514/3518/7100/Pill_History_FactSheet.pdf