Many women utilize various forms of contraception throughout their adult lives, often switching between methods like the pill, coil, or implant to find one that suits their bodies. However, all contraceptives carry health risks and potential side effects, which can include irregular bleeding, mood changes, depression, headaches, altered libido, and skin issues. Dr. Louise Newson, a hormone specialist, argues that these side effects are not an unavoidable trade-off and that better education about contraceptive choices is crucial.
Dr. Newson points out that many commonly referred to as "hormonal contraceptives" do not contain natural hormones but rather synthetic chemicals. These synthetic compounds mimic natural hormones but have different structures, which can block the action of the body's natural hormones. This mechanism, she explains, is associated with risks such as heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, and certain types of cancer. She advises women to inform their doctors about pre-existing health conditions like smoking, migraines, or high blood pressure, which can increase risks when using these contraceptives. Dr. Newson recommends tracking symptoms for the first three months of use to identify potential correlations with the chosen method and consider non-hormonal alternatives like condoms or a copper coil if issues arise.
Beyond pregnancy prevention, Dr. Newson notes that contraceptives are sometimes prescribed for medical conditions where bioidentical hormone treatments might be more suitable. Conditions such as painful periods, acne, endometriosis, PMS, PMDD, heavy bleeding, and perimenopause symptoms are sometimes managed with the contraceptive pill, which may not address the underlying hormonal causes. She suggests that replenishing low hormone levels with natural bioidentical hormones could be a more effective and less risky approach for these issues.
Regarding cancer risk, Dr. Newson distinguishes between bioidentical hormones and synthetic hormones found in many contraceptives. While bioidentical hormone treatments for menopause are not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, hormonal contraception, including the pill and Mirena coil, is linked to a small increased risk of breast cancer. Conversely, barrier methods like condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV and cervical cancer.
Dr. Newson also highlights the potential impact of hormonal contraception on mental health. She suggests a possible link between starting the pill and increased anxiety or depression, noting that synthetic hormones can affect brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. One study indicated a significantly higher risk of depression for teenage girls starting the pill compared to adult women. She emphasizes the importance of monitoring mood and mental health symptoms in relation to contraceptive use and hormonal changes.
For those seeking a contraceptive with potentially fewer risks, Dr. Newson recommends options containing natural estradiol, such as the pill Zoely, which has been associated with a lower risk of clots, cardiovascular disease, and cancer compared to contraceptives containing ethinylestradiol. Although Zoely may be more expensive, she states that women are entitled to access it through their GP. She also mentions the Mirena coil and bioidentical hormone treatments for specific gynecological conditions as other options. Dr. Newson encourages women to advocate for their right to choose a contraceptive method that works best for them.
