Oestrogen Expert: Birth Control Changes Who You Are…Would You Still Love Them If You Came Off It?

The Diary Of A CEO (DOAC) | Steven Bartlett
Topics: hormonal birth control,women’s health,relationships,mental health,reproductive health

Video’s main points

• Understand the profound effects of hormonal birth control on women’s hormones, mood, and libido.
• Consider alternative birth control methods such as copper IUDs to avoid hormonal side effects.
• Be aware of how hormonal birth control can influence attraction preferences and relationship satisfaction.
• Make informed decisions about birth control by weighing benefits and risks.

The Profound Impact of Hormonal Birth Control on Women’s Health

Hormonal birth control has been a cornerstone in women’s reproductive health for decades. While it offers significant benefits in preventing unwanted pregnancies and regulating menstrual cycles, it also brings about substantial changes in a woman’s hormonal balance, mood, and libido. Understanding these effects is crucial for women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

How Hormonal Birth Control Alters Hormonal Balance

Hormonal contraceptives work by introducing synthetic hormones, such as estrogen and progestin, into a woman’s body. These hormones suppress the natural ovulation process, ensuring that ovulation does not occur. However, this suppression leads to a flatline in the natural hormonal fluctuations that women typically experience throughout their menstrual cycle.

Effects on Mood and Mental Health

One of the significant side effects of hormonal birth control is its impact on a woman’s emotional state. Research has shown that women using hormonal contraceptives have an increased risk of developing anxiety and depression. The suppression of natural estrogen surges, which play a role in regulating mood, can lead to a less stable emotional state.

Libido and Sexual Function Adjustments

Hormonal birth control also affects a woman’s sexual desire. Estrogen is known to enhance libido, and its suppression can result in a decrease in sexual desire. Additionally, the introduction of synthetic progestin affects the levels of free testosterone in the body, further diminishing libido. Women on hormonal birth control often report fewer peaks and valleys in their sexual desire, leading to a more constant but generally lower level of libido.

Exploring Alternative Birth Control Methods

Given the potential side effects of hormonal birth control, many women are exploring alternatives that do not interfere with their natural hormonal balance. One such alternative is the copper IUD, a non-hormonal intrauterine device that is highly effective in preventing pregnancy without altering a woman’s hormonal levels.

The Benefits of Copper IUDs

Copper IUDs provide long-term contraception without the hormonal side effects associated with pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs. They work by creating an environment that is toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization. This method is ideal for women who prefer not to introduce synthetic hormones into their bodies.

Comparing Efficacy and Side Effects

While hormonal birth control methods offer the convenience of regulating menstrual cycles and reducing menstrual pain, non-hormonal methods like the copper IUD eliminate the risk of mood swings and decreased libido. However, women should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most suitable method based on their health needs and lifestyle.

Influence on Attraction Preferences and Relationship Satisfaction

Hormonal birth control doesn’t just affect physical aspects of health; it also plays a significant role in how women perceive attraction and satisfaction in relationships. Dr. Sarah Hill’s research highlights that hormonal contraceptives can alter women’s attraction preferences, making them less inclined to appreciate certain traits in their partners, particularly those related to masculinity and resource acquisition.

Changes in Mating Behavior

Women on hormonal birth control may experience a shift in their mating strategies. Studies have shown that these women can become less attracted to their partners if those partners lack the attributes typically valued during natural hormonal cycles. This can lead to decreased relationship satisfaction and, in some cases, the dissolution of relationships.

Long-Term Relationship Dynamics

The alteration of hormonal balances influences not only initial attraction but also long-term relationship dynamics. For instance, women who discontinue hormonal birth control have shown increased attraction to their partners if the partners are considered attractive. Conversely, couples where the woman has been on birth control may face challenges when the hormone levels reset post-contraceptive use.

Making Informed Decisions: Weighing Benefits and Risks

Choosing the right birth control method requires a comprehensive understanding of both the benefits and potential risks. Women must consider how each method aligns with their personal health, lifestyle, and reproductive goals.

Assessing Personal Health Needs

Women should evaluate their health conditions and how they might interact with various contraceptives. Factors such as a history of mood disorders, risk of depression, and libido changes should be discussed with healthcare providers to tailor the best contraceptive approach.

Understanding Lifestyle Implications

Different birth control methods have varying levels of convenience and maintenance. For example, daily pills require consistent adherence, whereas long-term solutions like IUDs or implants offer more hassle-free contraception but may involve higher upfront costs.

Empowering Through Knowledge

Ultimately, the key to making an informed decision lies in education. Women need access to comprehensive information about how each contraceptive method works, its side effects, and its impact on overall well-being. Empowered with this knowledge, women can choose a method that best suits their individual needs and life circumstances.

Conclusion

Hormonal birth control plays a significant role in modern women’s lives, offering unparalleled control over reproductive health. However, it is essential to recognize the profound effects it has on women’s hormonal balance, mental health, libido, and relationship dynamics. By considering alternatives and making informed decisions, women can navigate their reproductive choices in a manner that supports their overall well-being and personal happiness.