Critics Among Influencers: Championing 'Natural' Birth Control Methods. Essential Information Explained
Hormonal birth control, a popular method for pregnancy prevention, has developed a mixed reputation over the years. This is largely due to reports and concerns about side effects, media coverage of adverse reactions, and safety issues with certain devices like Essure and Paragard [1]. However, decades of research affirm that hormonal contraceptives, including oral contraceptives, IUDs, patches, injections, and implants, are generally safe and effective at avoiding pregnancy [5].
Cycle tracking, such as basal body temperature monitoring and other fertility awareness methods, offers a hormone-free alternative. It helps women understand their fertility patterns by identifying ovulation timing [2]. While it can be effective for pregnancy prevention when used correctly, it requires rigorous daily monitoring and discipline, and its typical-use effectiveness is generally lower than that of hormonal methods [4].
One study found that 29% of women felt their doctor had dismissed their health concerns in the previous two years [6]. Clinicians stress the importance of evaluating risk on an individual basis, in conversation with your doctor [7]. Doctors like Morris believe they should discuss the risks of birth control more openly with patients [8].
Common side effects of hormonal birth control include headaches, mood changes, and breast tenderness [9]. More serious, but rare, complications of some types of birth control include blood clots and uterine perforation [10]. Jensen emphasizes the importance of giving more attention to common side effects like irregular bleeding in discussions about hormonal birth control [11].
Despite the potential risks, hormonal birth control remains a safe and effective choice for many. Jensen also stresses the importance of the ability to avoid pregnancy for women's equality in modern life [12]. However, individual experiences with birth control apps may not be predictive for others [13]. Conti notes that cycle tracking might not be suitable for individuals with busy lives [14].
Cycle tracking can lead to a false sense of security when it comes to preventing pregnancy, with a failure rate of 8% to 9% among users of one app to avoid pregnancy [3]. Jensen highlights that pregnancy can be dangerous, and abortion restrictions compound that risk [15]. Social media can skew the accuracy of risk-benefit calculations when it comes to making decisions about birth control [16].
In the end, choosing between hormonal birth control and fertility awareness-based methods involves weighing safety and effectiveness against side effect profiles, personal preferences, and lifestyle factors. Pfender points out that women often feel overlooked in medical settings, and it is crucial for doctors to listen to their patients' concerns and provide accurate information [17].
References:
[1] https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/products-and-medical-procedures/essure-permanent-birth-control-device
[2] https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/products-and-medical-procedures/paragard-intrauterine-copper-contraceptive
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3390371/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4737978/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4610166/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5647003/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7315506/
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[9] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/birth-control-pills/about/pac-20394758
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6033717/
[11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[13] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[14] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[15] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[16] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
[17] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040590/
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