Why I'm Wary About Contraceptives: The Lack of Research and Why You Should Advocate for Your Health

Contraception has long been marketed as the go-to solution for women looking to prevent pregnancy. While it’s widely used, there are critical issues surrounding contraceptive medications that aren’t often discussed. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and reflecting on the risks, and I’m here to share why I believe we all need to be more cautious when it comes to contraceptive options.

The Problem with How Contraceptives Were Tested 😣

When the first contraceptive pills were developed, the testing wasn't done on women at all. The initial studies were conducted on old, frail men who had no real hormonal connection to the effects of the medication they were testing. This raises significant questions about how well these methods were actually researched before being released to the public.

The lack of thorough and diverse research around contraceptives – especially when it comes to understanding long-term health effects and the impacts on different types of women – is something we should all be concerned about. It's alarming how little we know about the true consequences of these medications on our bodies, given the limited scope of the studies and the biased nature of their initial testing.

Why You Shouldn't Settle for Symptoms 🧐

It's all too easy to treat symptoms with a quick fix, but your body is more complex than that. If you're dealing with issues like irregular periods, acne, or painful cramps, you might feel that the simplest solution is to start birth control. However, those symptoms are just signals from your body that something could be out of balance. Instead of masking those symptoms with hormonal contraception, it’s worth investigating what’s actually going on underneath the surface.

Every woman’s cycle is unique, and many of us don’t realise that we have the power to understand and track it. By becoming more attuned to your body, you can gain insights into what’s happening during each phase of your cycle. Tracking your cycle is a holistic and empowering way to take control of your health without immediately resorting to contraceptives.

Advocate for Yourself 😎

The healthcare system has made it easy for women to accept contraceptives without asking too many questions, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for everyone. You are your best advocate. If you feel like something isn’t right or if you simply don’t want to use birth control, don’t settle for the first option your doctor gives you. Start the conversation, dig deeper, and look into alternatives. You can work with your body rather than against it.

There are so many other ways to prevent pregnancy that don’t require invasive medications or hormones. In fact, I've personally used cycle tracking as my primary method of birth control for years, and it’s been incredibly empowering. By tracking my fertility signs, I’m able to understand when I’m most fertile and avoid pregnancy naturally. The fertility awareness method (FAM) requires dedication, but it’s a more natural approach that honours the rhythms of the body, offering a far safer and side-effect-free option than contraceptives. I also personally love getting my period because it helps me to understand my body on a deeper level.

Knowledge is Power 🤓

Contraceptives are just one of many options available, but they shouldn’t be your only option. You deserve the knowledge and tools to make the best decision for your body. Take the time to research, track your cycle, and consider alternatives. You might be surprised by how much better you feel when you’re more connected to your body and informed about your options.

The information is out there, and it’s time we take it into our own hands. Don’t just accept what’s given to you—start questioning, learning, and advocating for your own health. After all, your body, your choice.

Remember you have a voice, don't ever hesitate to ask more questions, and seek further investigating with your GP or health care professionals. Please don't also sit there and take on anything that doesn't sit right with you either, always ask if there is another way.

Women deserve better health care! #womenshealth