By Meghan Dye
Although birth control often is associated with preventing pregnancy, its benefits extend far beyond family planning. Birth control is not one size fits all; there are many different options available — including pills, patches, rings, injections and multiple long-acting forms. All of these offer a range of health advantages for women, making them a valuable tool for managing various health conditions.
MENSTRUAL CYCLE MANAGEMENT
Birth control is a common treatment for women struggling with irregular, heavy or painful menstrual cycles. They work by regulating hormone levels throughout the menstrual cycle, leading to more predictable/ consistent bleeding patterns and decreasing pain associated with ovulation and menstruation. This regulation not only provides peace of mind but also helps manage conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome.
PROTECTING THE UTERUS
For women with a history of PCOS or an absence of normal monthly cycles, birth control can help keep the uterine lining thinned out, therefore mitigating the risk of endometrial hyperplasia. This is a thickening of the uterine lining, which increases the risk of developing endometrial or uterine cancer later in life. By regulating cycles and preventing the buildup of the endometrial lining, birth control helps reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS
It’s important to recognize the signs that indicate a need for birth control beyond pregnancy prevention. If your menstrual cycles haven’t regulated within two years of starting menstruation, if you experience the absence of cycles for more than 30 days or if your periods are severely heavy (requiring changing hygiene products more often than every four hours), birth control may be helpful. If heavy bleeding causes fatigue or disrupts your daily life, birth control can offer significant relief.
ACCESSIBILITY OF BIRTH CONTROL
In many cases, a pelvic exam may not be warranted for a birth control prescription. This accessibility makes it easier for women to take control of their menstrual health and address concerns related to irregular or heavy bleeding.
If you think you may need birth control for any reason, speak with your health care provider to develop a customized care plan.
Meghan Dye is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and board-certified women’s health care nurse practitioner (WHNP-BC). Learn more at ochsner.org or contact her at (228) 220-5200.