Please note that this post contains affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission.
Most women in America are on birth control. Experts say that 62% of us are using some form of birth control right now. Shocking huh? What is even more surprising is that most of us are not aware of all of the benefits of birth control. Even though I’ve had my own issues with birth control there are so many benefits of birth control.
Here’s the deal:
Birth control can prevents pregnancy, if it is used correctly. But it is more useful than to just baby proof your life. Here are 7 benefits of birth control that may surprise you.
1. You don’t need to have sex to use birth control
There is no shame in asking your doctor to start you on contraception. It’s a safe bet that initiating the conversation your provider doesn’t mean that they are judging you. We’re not. Your doc may offer different birth control option to help you with issues like killer, cramps, heavy flow or your non-stop bleeding.
Bottom line:
Have an open and honest discussion your healthcare provider about starting birth control, if you need it. You don’t have to live with excruciating pain and discomfort once a month.
2. I love the pill but it’s not the only option
You might default to the pill as your first control option but, it’s not the only method available. I’ve had so many women come into the office convinced that wanted to start out their contraceptive journey with the pill. What you might not realize is that being on the pill takes real commitment. I’m talking about taking it every single day at the same time! Now, don’t get me wrong, the pill is doable but be realistic about your lifestyle and your habits. Other options like an IUD or Nexplanon require less maintenance and are extremely effective in preventing pregnancy, like 99% effective.
Want to know the best part?
They last for several years. Once they are placed, you don’t have to remember to do anything else. #issawin!
3. Skip A period
As women we’re so used to having a period every month that the thought of skipping a period for a month, or not having a period at all may seem strange or even a little unnatural. But skipping a period can be helpful sometimes. Think about it… No painful cramps or heavy bleeding during your amazingly planned vacation. Plus all the money you’ll save on pads and tampons! I mean, what’s not to love? Of course you’ll have to talk to your doc’ to see if this is an option for you and they will help you figure out the best method for you and your lifestyle.
4. Not all Birth Control side effects are bad
Oftentimes you will read about all of the negative side effects of birth control. You know… bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness uhh! I’m convinced the lifestyle benefits of birth control haven’t been hyped up enough. Hormonal IUD’s like the Mirena can treat heavy menstrual bleeding. You might have lighter periods and/or shorter periods 6 months after placement. Some women even stop having periods after a year.
5. You may have to try a few methods to find the right one
So here’s the thing…. Much like figuring out which tampon work best for you, you might have to do the same with your birth control.
There is no “best birth control.” You have to choose the method that is the best fit for your lifestyle. If you are a world traveler crisscrossing time zones, think about a birth control method that matches your freedom and flexibility.
6. You Might Need Emergency Contraception one day
You’ve settled in with your boo for an evening of “Netflix and Chill.” You’ve hot and heavy into session when the condom breaks.
What do you do?
Emergency contraception is a safe way to prevent pregnancy if you are not ready to start a family. The copper IUD can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex and it’s the most effective emergency contraception. You will have to schedule an appointment to have an IUD inserted so most women opt for the morning-after pill, which is available over the counter without a prescription. You can take within 5 days after having unprotected sex to lessen your chances of getting pregnant.
7. Condoms as Natural Birth Control
If you want birth control that doesn’t have any hormones, condoms may be your answer. Condoms are cost effective, affordable and prevent pregnancy about 85% of the time with typical use. Condoms are also great at preventing many sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea and chlamydia. Since the spread of STI has increased in recent years, especially among young women, it’s important that you protect yourself. Don’t become a victim of the untreatable super gonorrhea. Yup, that’s a real thing.
Birth Control is a game changer for many women. Not only does it help you avoid a baby-bump, but it also has so many often overlooked advantages. So go ahead, throw that trusty pack of blue pills into your Chanel purse.
Have you ever used birth control? Comment below.