If Not The Pill, Then What? And What’s The Deal With The New Pill Yaz Flex
GUEST POST BY DR NATALIE KRINGOUDIS.
Before we get into the nitty gritty of today’s post – I can’t let the recent launch of ‘the new pill’, Yaz Flex, slip on by without comment. The headline “new pill adds comfort for women” on news.com.au certainly got the heart started. Not in a good way, but in the shape of palpitations, clammy palms and a knee jerk reaction to turn my radio down as quickly as my sweaty fingers would allow because, on my part, there is little comfort in this story.
If you are unfamiliar with Yaz Flex, it’s a new pill that skips several periods in a row, essentially meaning women will only ‘bleed’ (we can’t even call this menstruation, because it isn’t – it is a withdrawal bleed from hormones) four times a year. This is the part where I shut my eyes and take a deep breath. What are we doing to ourselves? And why are we doing it? When did it become so darn inconvenient to have a period? And at what point are we going to be made properly aware that the hormones contained in the pill are messing with our health and fertility terribly so? I have lots of questions I need answered, but the one sure thing I know is that we have a growing infertility rate, and as sure as the sun shines, this is one MAJOR reason why.
We are supposed to shed our endometrial lining once a month, it’s like a reproductive reset. A period is a sign of good health. If you hate your period that much, it’s best time to look at why and fix the issues surrounding that.
If I had a tally for the number of women I see – post pill – that say to me “If I had have known it was going to mess with my body this much, I never would have taken it in the first place,” I’d need shares in a paper mill to record them all. I’ve spoken about the pill many, many times on my blog. You need to go and get familiar with all the reasons it isn’t doing you one bit of good. So click here, here and here and here. But, if you need a quick rundown, let’s do that.
+ The pill makes us infertile because it is designed to do so.
+ It messes with our hormones and in many instances, our bodies have great trouble getting back on track.
+ It isn’t a solution to PCOS or endometriosis. Solutions fix a problem – the pill is a temporary ‘band aid’.
+ It degenerates the crypts that secrete fertile mucus essential for conception. Without fertile mucus, the sperm can’t reach the egg.
+ Side effects include nausea, depression, breast pain, migraines and low libido (the later I find ironic… if you are on the pill for contraceptive reasons, but you can’t entertain the thought of jumping your partner and getting between the sheets, it’s kinda defeating the purpose, no?)
+ It makes for a very unsettled baby and mother, should a woman fall pregnant shortly after coming off the pill.
+ It alters our senses and skews our radar when it comes to attracting a suitable (compatible – when it comes to baby making) partner.
I could keep going… but this post is actually about what to do if you don’t want to take the pill any longer! I’d love to hear your thoughts on Yaz Flex. If you only hear one things today – hear this.
Yaz Flex isn’t any different from its conventional sister. It is just that it comes in a special little package that tells you when it is time to take it. Essentially it is still the same pill. All forms of hormone contraception must be taken with great care and caution. We’re not told this when it is prescribed, probably because your GP is also lead to believe it is perfectly safe. And should you have any dramas post pill… there’s a pill for that too. Unfortunately, it isn’t the most effective hormone treatment, mostly because it isn’t providing a solution.
There are very few cases of women who actually must be on the pill – most of the reasons a woman may take it outside contraception, are treatable.
As women we need to find solutions – this means look at what the alternatives are. I’m here to share all that with you.
Now, on to core of today’s topic.
You’ve heard me bang on about the pill and why it’s not really a solution when it comes to hormone imbalance and women’s health issues (think poly cystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis). Now, you might be saying to yourself, “I get it, the pill is trouble, but if I’m not taking the pill – and I’m not ready for kids yet, then what?” Great question! There are a few things you need to consider and a few solutions. Let’s start with looking at why we take the pill and why it may not be all it’s cracked up to be.
One of the main reasons women take the pill is to prevent unwanted pregnancy – righty-o. Let me tell you this – in the US, 6 million pregnancies occur to women taking the pill. And get this, their use of the pill isn’t necessarily incorrect. Fact is, the pill can make us gain weight, which increases our metabolic rate. This means that for the pill to effectively prevent pregnancy, higher levels of hormones are required for it to work. Thing is, it’s a one size dose not specific to body mass. This means that if the pill has made you gain weight, it’s not going to be as effective because it just can’t work properly. As we gain weight, the body requires higher levels of hormones for it to be effective. Pregnancies will occur for this reason. I’m sure you have heard somebody fall pregnant while on the pill, and you may have assumed it was because they’d been careless and overlooked a dose.
Before I get into the ‘what now,’ I have a little more to say on this. Children conceived while a mother is on the pill or very shortly after coming off the pill are open to a host of behavioral issues because zinc is so low when coming off the pill. You can counteract this with a few treatments and adding specific vitamins and minerals to the mix whilst pregnant. Phew! But if you play out this scenario for a sec – a woman who falls pregnant while on the pill, is more likely to have a child who is unsettled, jittery, cries a lot and generally unhappy (because of this nutritional deficiency). Combine this with being a new mother who’s also nutritionally lacking (contributing to post natal depression, poor milk supply), tired, upset and stressed – it’s a disastrous start. What about baby bliss? Women need to know this stuff!
There are a few boxes that need to be ticked to move into being comfortable without the pill as your no-baby insurance (which we now know may not be the case anyway). Firstly – women need to re-establish their regular menstrual cycles and know what their body is telling them for other methods to be effective. This can seem difficult to women with PCOS or hormone imbalances, especially those who ovulate irregularly. But, if you suffer from these conditions it is important that you understand, these are treatable conditions. You will be doing your body a great favour by sorting these out and getting it on track. So first things first, you need to scout out somebody who can help you with that. Nowadays I offer online consultations for people because it can be tricky to find credible practitioners that offer these services, but, we do exist! I can always point you in the right direction if this is something you need to find. Getting your menstrual cycle regular is key here.
Once the menstrual cycle is working properly, you have a much better idea of when you are fertile and when you are not. You might like to take a look at my ovulation tutorial here. This is KEY to working out what your body is telling you, when you are fertile and when you aren’t.
Several years ago, after the birth of my first daughter, I ever so vividly recall my six week check up visit to the GP, possibly because I don’t go – ever, and also because of the conversation that we engaged in. It went something like this:
GP: “let’s talk about some contraceptive means for you darling.”
Me: “That’s okay, I’m not needing it.”
GP: “Oh love, you don’t want to fall pregnant just yet!”
Me: “Of course not! (stab me in the eye. I have a six week old baby, lady!) I’m really capable of not falling pregnant if I don’t wish too.”
GP: (insert smirk here) “Oh sweetheart – accidents do happen!” (as if to say you silly little girl!)
Me: “I understand that – but I know my body. I managed to fall pregnant exactly when I wanted to – I also avoided pregnancy for some time prior to that. I don’t want to put these toxins in my body – but thank you for your concern.”
She was shocked. Really shocked. If the GP couldn’t understand what I was talking about – no wonder so many women are on the pill. We’ve lost trust in our bodies and are lead to believe that there is no other way. Of course, I looked like an idiot to her – a naïve fool it may have appeared. But I knew my body and I knew (and still do) how to read it. It’s not that hard once you listen to what it is saying.
Reading your body signs is without doubt, the best way of knowing when you are potentially fertile or not. And so, when you are most fertile (and when your libido peaks for the month) you might be wondering, what now? Obviously barrier methods have stood the test and work well for many people (diaphragms and condoms) but what might intrigue you is that there is another method that is extremely effective – in fact almost as effective as the pill. That’s withdrawal! If withdrawal is practiced properly, it is up to 96% effective. Who knew, right!? They’re impressive stats.
So what is ‘proper practice?’ Well it might be important to first understand that there are no live sperm in the pre-ejaculatory fluid, which means that really, practicing this correctly is simply getting it outa there before ejaculation occurs! The only real rule here is that if you’re going to go for round two – the male will need to urinate first to make doubly sure the pipes are clear and that no semen have been left behind. It’s really simple.
Reality is, there are really only three days you can potentially fall pregnant in each menstrual cycle – the key is knowing when these are.
Obviously this kind of practice is for those in trusting relationships. It relies on the male being able to withdraw at the right time. Safe sex should always be practiced unless you know a whole lot about your lover. So condoms are absolutely appropriate for those who don’t wish to be on the pill, but want to protect themselves from pregnancy and other STI’s – it goes without saying. That’s important for your long term health and fertility – because STI’s can certainly be a huge obstacle in the fertility game – but we’ll save that post for another day because that’s a whole other area.
So learn to understand what your body is telling you and seek help if that isn’t working well (that needs to be fixed sooner than later anyway). Remember, there are options that work very well. Being on the pill or using hormone contraceptives can have long term effects on your bodies health and fertility – it’s great to know there are other options out there that work.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic in the comments below! Were you excited about the launch of Yaz Flex? What contraceptive methods do you use? Do you feel you need to change? Can you read your body’s signs?
Author bio: Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, Natural Fertility Educator and Writer, Natalie’s belief in the benefits of alternative therapies saw her establish her own Women’s Health and Natural Fertility clinic in Melbourne, The Pagoda Tree in 2003. The birth of Natalie’s first child; daughter Olivia (now four) further fuelled her love for natural health and home living and revealed to her an entirely new treatment perspective. Natalie has been featured in many publications, some including Marie Claire, Cosmo Health, Cosmo Pregnancy and Body + Soul and appeared on The Morning Show as their Natural Health expert. She enjoys any opportunity to educate women on the use of alternative therapies and nutrition. You can visit her site www.melbournenaturalfertility.com.au for up to the minute information on health and fertility as well as recipes for healthy living and wellness.
Connect with Natalie on …
Blog: www.melbournenaturalfertility.com.au
Website: www.thepagodatree.com.au
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/The-Pagoda-Tree/
Twitter: @NatKringoudis
Positive affirmation for the day: My body is my best friend.
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POSTED IN: fertility, hormones, the pill, women's hormones, Yaz Flex
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hi nat – just wanted to say that you hit several nails on the head and thanks for getting all of this info out there x
This post is so fabulous! It’s amazing how little education we ladies receiveabout our bodies. I went off the pill earlier this year (thanks to a post from you) and am on a search to learn as much as I can about my lady business. My findings have been nothing short of astounding… and shocking at how this stuff isn’t taught in school or from our mothers (who obviously were never taught either). I’m reading a great book right now called Taking Charge of your Fertility by Toni Weschler. It is sad that we have to be so proactive to find out the basic truth about how our bodies function. Thanks for another great article getting the word out there. xxoo
Great post, super insightful and still shocking to me that women would consider and consent to a pill that reduces your periods to four times a year. It doesn’t make sense to me that people would knowingly do that to their bodies. I have a question for Nat. I started getting my periods again about 12 months after my second baby was born due to reducing the number of breast feeds. They were regular pretty much straight away but I seem to have developed awful pains during ovulation. They can last from 30 mins sometimes to a couple of days. Is there an explanation for this?
this can be really common post partum. It’s nothing of huge concern, although it may indicate there is some trauma from pregnancy and birth – it very often does resolve itself. Do you eat a large amount of meat and dairy? Cutting that back may make a little difference too.
Thanks for the reply Nat. Good to know that it’s not something to worry about. I do it a bit of meat and some dairy so could definitely cut back on those. Thanks again 
This is an issue very close to my heart, long story short after coming off the pill I didnt get my period for 6 years. I have had every test under the sun, and the “doctor world” can only tell me that my brain doesnt tell my hormones what to do – more like my body was so effected by starting the pill and using implanon at such a young age that it messed with my hormones too much.
My advice to each and every girl – get off the pill – it isnt worth it.
Same thing happened to me! Find yourself a true and holistic chiropractor. It’s the only thing that helped me heal (and believe me, I tried everything, and had many invasive tests done). Our spinal cord sends nerve signals to every organ and system in the body. In my case, a misalignment in my lower back/sacrum area restricted nerve flow to my ovaries. After three months of intensive chiropractic adjustments, my body healed and my period came back (and continues to every month).
Have you looked into alternative treatments? I think we could get your body sorted. Also never underestimate a practitioner grade multi/supplement – it lays a great foundation.
This is a very interesting post and quite timely for me. I visited my doctor recently to discuss non-hormonal options. I am in my early 30s and have been on the pill since my late teens, originally to help with a bad acne problem. My GP basically told me that the pill was the best option to be on as it kept everything in working order, and helped to prevent certain cancers etc. The only non-hormonal option suggested was condoms which for me personally are not an ideal option.
We don’t have children, and they aren’t in the plan for the next year or so at least. And while I haven’t experienced any issues on the pill, I feel like having been on it for almost half my life that it really cannot be that good for me. Equally I am not sure how trusting I am of the options you’ve listed. Any advice on other methods such as the IUD?
Hi Laura, I am 27 and have just had an IUD removed. Only after I had it removed was it explained to me that they are really only suitable for women who have already had babies. It was uncomfortable all the time for me, and my partner could feel it during sex. Not nice! I had been convinced by my doctor that it was the right option for me after years of struggling with depression / anxiety while on the pill. I didn’t do any research before I had it done, as I mistakenly trusted my doctors advice.
I am sure it works for some people though, and the doctor at the family planning clinic who removed it for me said she removes a lot from people in the same position as I was.
It also requires anaesthesia to be put in, but is relatively easy to pull out. Make sure you do your research before you do anything, dont be silly like me!
Best of luck xxx
I also had an IUD for over a year (copper) as I chose to put an end to having any artificial hormones in my body. I am mid 20′s and no children and also had it inserted at a family planning clinic, but without anaesthetic. As above, I’m sure there’s every chance that the copper IUD has worked well for some people, just sharing my experience for what it’s worth.
I had it removed 4 months ago after 15 months of having it in, and wish I’d had it out much sooner. I gave it a red hot go, but the reasons I had it removed were: Since I had it put in I had two-week long periods with about 4-5 days of vastly increased period pain, random flashes of period-cramp-like pain throughout the month, super low sex drive, and with such long periods the window for even physically being able to have sex (not even factoring in emotional changes), was very small and put a strain on my relationship. I also felt intuitively uncomfortable with having this strange object, and copper, sitting inside my womb, though this was somewhat ‘secondary’ for the most part until it became more of a concern toward decison time.
The idea of having the IUD put in was to try and find more ease for both myself (no hormones, convenient contraception), and the relationship (fuss free contraception). I stuck it out for over a year, from a combination of hoping the long periods and extra pain would settle down, and also not wanting to make a rash decision because it was for me a significant thing to insert something into my womb, so wanted to really make an informed decision. But I wish I had have done it sooner!
Back to barrier methods for us, but my body and soul (and partner!) are singing with happiness that the saga is over, and I’m soooo enjoying learning about the wondrous and sacred process of the natural monthly cycle, and celebrating that in all it’s natural intelligence!
Thanks for the article
My best advice is to get off the pill well before you are ready to conceive. It can take your body at least 6 months if not more to get itself back into gear. Also babies conceived shortly after ceasing the pill will undoubtedly be more deficient as the mother is robbed of nutrients whilst on the pill – this is absolutely passed onto the unborn child. These methods I describe are extremely effective – almost as effective (actually more so effective really) than the pill and really, should you fall pregnant even 6 months earlier than ‘planned’ would that be terrible? I only say this because at the other end of the spectrum are many women who try forever to conceive and can never do so – some times unplanned is great way to conceive. Condoms are also excellent.
I would love to come off the pill, but every time I try I get really bad acne. Last time I tried to put up with it for 6 months but it was really getting me down so I ended up giving in and going back on it. The pill keeps my skin perfectly clear.
Do you have any suggestions on how to get off the pill without this happening?
I am 33 so I think the acne is just from the crazy hormonal changes from coming off it after so many years.
I am hoping that next time I try it won’t be as bad as I no longer eat sugar or junk food and have a very clean diet and I know these foods can play havoc on your hormones.
Hi Lyn, i also had a similar experience, on and off the pill then found out I had PCOS and freaked out! I then went off the pill and got horrible skin especially on my chin! I had never had bad skin before! Then I changed my life. I started eating a lot of fruit and vegetables and started taking USANA Essential vitamins and proflavinol C. My skin is now amazing.. post the pill. I did not think this was possible! But i totally recomend making sure your body has the right nutrients and minerals. From a “I need the Pill” person to a no i don’t!! I understand why you dont want to come off. this might help
Thanks for your comment Lauryce. I think I will try again. I think my diet should now be able to support me and I may look at herbs or other supplements to balance my hormones. Very encouraging to hear you have had a good experience as it’s really depressing when I read things on google about it!! So many people have really bad skin breakouts after coming off.
Thanks again
Lyn
Lyn, I had a terrible time coming off the pill too, crazy anxiety and PMS for me, and not long after, some other ethings helped me have a total nervous breakdown. Not once did I ever think I should just start taking it again. It’s a HUGE adjustment for your body to make, and the healthiest thing for you to do is to find out the real cause of the acne and have it treated. The pill is a band-aid, and you can’t walk around with a band-aid stuck on forever. I hope you can get off it for good this time, in a few months, you’ll feel so much better for it.
This is exactly my problem – I would love to come off it, but before I was on it I had terrible skin. A few years later I went off it for 6 months and the acne came back so I went back on it.
I’m worried this will happen again and I REALLY don’t want it to.
I eat really clean but I’m just scared it might not be enough to balance these hormones that give me acne.
You can experiment with reducing your dairy intake to see if that helps your complexion. Many people with chronic acne find that a dairy-free diet clears their skin.
Same issue here, off the pill for over 4 months now and skin is awful. I already don’t eat sugar and have very little gluten, how could I give up dairy as well?!?!?
Acne is just a sign that your hormones are kicking back in. Acne is absolutely treatable, but more important is getting your hormones back into sync, and with that comes better skin. I encourage you to find a great natural health care practitioner to guide you with this – it doesn’t need to be terrible.
Hi Lyn, I can totally relate. I’ve been off the pill for about 4 months now and the acne is the worst of it for me. I’m pretty sure it’s just a detox and the hormones trying to balance back out and can take some time. I see an acupuncturist and chiropractor to help facilitate the balancing as quickly as possibly, but your body has to do it’s thing. My acupuncturist said that the acne will take the longest to go away. That said, I’ve actually gotten compliments on how my skin is glowing! Even with all this acne! In my opinion, being off the pill with acne is so much better than the alternative. And once I get through it, I won’t have to worry about it again. Wishing you all the best and lots of strength to get through it this time.
I completely agree with this post. So many of my friends think I’m crazy for not being on the pill…I think they are crazy for being on it! It’s great that you are creating greater awareness on this issue.
I used the pill for only a short time. I hated what it did to my body. For the 15 years since I have used natural family planning. The body is so amazing and tell us when we are fertile. I got pregnant when I wanted and didn’t when I did not want to get pregnant. I wish people talked about this more so that young women would know that there are other options out there.
Betsy – this is absolutely key. I commend you.
I’m guilty of being one of those women…if I had known what the Pill was doing to my body, I would have never have taken it for 10+ years.
Really interesting post!!! Thanks
I went on the pill when I was 16.. I had bad acne at the time and my mum suggested that going on the pill would help to clear it up (I think she just really wanted me on the pill though) I stayed on it for about 4 or 5 years and in that time I gained a lot of weight, I was super depressed and suffered from crazy mood swings in year 11 and 12 and just after high school. I had no idea that the pill was probably contributing to all of these issues… Scary!!!
I went off the pill at 21, and not long after lost 15 kilos (didn’t really change anything in my diet?) my skin is still not perfect but I have been eating really well in the last few years, so my skin is definitely healthier than when I was 16.
I’m 27 now, with 2 little girls and definitely wont be recommending the pill for them when they are in high school.
I would like Natalie’s opinion about taking the pill for acne, my daughter has been taking the pill for the past 2 years she is now 20 years old. Whilst my daughters skin is looking really good i am worried about the long term effects she is a thin girl naturally however she too has put on some weight since being on the pill. In saying this nothing cleared up my daughters skin like the pill has. My daughter is affraid if she stopped the pill that her skin would break out again.
Anna – I think I’ve emailed you about this today. Supported treatment is key here to ensure that acne isn’t an issue.
I think we smell different and perceive smell differently when on the pill. So some of the basis of attraction is how we smell to each other. Perhaps you smell so different when coming off the pill that your partner is attracted differently (or not at all) and also your own sense of smell is different so maybe he doesn’t smell so great either.
this is a proven fact.
My goodness- I had no idea! I’ve been thinking of coming off the pill for a while now, but don’t want my fiance to run for hills!
From what I’ve been taught as a pharmacist, the hormones in the pill trick your body into thinking it is pregnant. Now this changes your idea of an attractive smell to someone with a similar genetic makeup as yourself i.e. your child. But this is not so good when looking for a potential partner, when you want someone who is very different to yourself for genetic variety and therefore healthier children.
Hi Nat,
Thank you for this post. I am about to get married next month and in anticipation to wanting kids have given up the pill (that I have been taking since I was 17), knowing very well how long it is going to take my body to adjust.
What makes me mad though is that I was told by my doctor at such a young age that I needed to take it to stop my periods and to prevent endo (as there was a family history) and that the best course of action for me was to skip my periods so that I would have one every 3mths.
To make matters worse I was put on a massively high dose, which delivered with a smile from my doctor told me that it would be great for me as it reduces hair growth so I wouldn’t have to shave as often.
As a teenager and 20 something this was brilliant I didn’t have to worry about having a period every month like all my friends and my legs remained perfectly hair free and no fuss.
It is now that I know the damage the pill has caused. Since coming off the pill a number of months ago I am still waiting on my periods to find there natural rhythm and the weight has just fallen off – a bonus but one that is not important in this debate. But the big unknown is what damage has it caused long term? .
And what do I think about the new Yaz? I think it is another excuse for the drug companies to turn a profit. We don’t beed to buy into shortcuts, our body’s were made perfectly as they are. They don’t need man made science to get involved!
Thank you for sharing! You have encouraged me to learn more and question the facts provided by the medical world.
WOW. I have never heard such an odd ‘added bonus!’ I’m glad you have seen sense. It’s really sad this is one reason or ‘promotion’ as to why we might be encouraged to take the pill.
I know this is a stupid question after reading your words, but any thoughts on low dose Lo Lestrin Fe? I decided to get back on the pill for the next 6 months, per my OBGYN, until my fiance and I try to get pregnant after our wedding in April next year. I’m 35, and I’ve been off of the pill for years. My periods were always normal immediately after I got off the pill, but into my 34 and now 35 years of age, I began getting painful cysts, heavier cramps, and super weird during ovulation & period. I also started getting palpitations weekly, and SVT a few times/year. (I see a cardiologist regularly, and he says my heart is healthy, I just have MVP & random SVT) Really feeling like it’s hormone related, and I’m hoping that regulating my hormones with BC pill until I get pregnant will help that as well. I never had flutters until I got off the pill, or SVT. (My OBGYN knows how holistic I prefer to be, and she said 6 months is not so risky for the bad side effects) Once I have a baby, around age 36, I hope my body will get back on track. Sometimes I think when you wait this long to have children, you’re body gets confused. My mind has wanted a baby for years! )) (I’m 35, super healthy otherwise, 5’8, 125lb., and very happy, and you’ll be glad to know, I juice a ton! ) I have been following you for awhile, and this is a subject that I really struggle with!!! Thanks for reading Jessica! I so hope you have some input on my complicated situation! Much love!
xo, shelly from san diego, CA
I encourage you to look at why these things are happening – they are signs that your body isn’t happy with the current treatment. I think you would find that much of your symptoms are inter-related and will improve with treatment.
thanks Natalie! i’ll talk to my new cardiologist, and my new herbalist, and get the best of both worlds hopefully! sorry, i realized you were writing that post, not Jess.. oops! 
)) wish me luck!
xo
shel
What a very special blog today-very close to my heart! The was I the pill “yasmine” for 12 years, which totally weakened my immune system in turn getting cancer in 2008. My poor little liver was not in a good way thanks to years of these hormones flooding my body! As soon as I decided my natural health journey and come off everything toxic and flooding my body with goodness I am finally living the life we are designed to live, vibrant bright and beautiful!
I often wonder what right a GP has to write a script for the pill to a 15 yo (my age when I first went on it) who really has no idea about the bigger picture!
I can’t believe this company’s new marketing scheme, what a joke! Sad sad sad!
If only Dr’s taught us to trust our body’s more for the signs of ovulation rather then giving scripts!!!
Love your post and your style! Keep spreading the word!!!!!!!!
Hi Nat…wow i must be living in a cave..i didnt even know that such thing exsisted…I know of many woman that skip their periods by taking the pill only bit of the pill…Thanks for sharing this information, I have never been on the pill and never will…our bodys are meant to menstrate…gosh i cant imagine what it is doing to bodies when they dont menstrate…thanks for sharing this wealth of information and hopefully it will resonate with somebody who is doing this to their body…
A note to sarah…yes I was told at 16 by a docter to go on pill as well to stop endo…crazy advice to be given to a 16 year old..
Great post Nat! More of this info needs to get out there to women. I think we are so often misinformed about the contraceptive options when we are in our late teens and early 20s and it is only by doing our own research, listening to our own bodies and really considering what we are doing to ourselves that the truth can be found. I have dabbled in the pill in the past, but know that it just isn’t right for me, for so many reasons, and I am now fully committed to the natural route of contraception. I just hope that when it does come time to try and conceive that I haven’t done too much damage and there are no complications. Thanks for your refreshing post- the world needs more doctors who think like you do.
I’ve never been on the pill thank heavens. I ended up with 2 children so I guess that was an advantage. I’m so relieved, as one of my kids has asd so that may’ve been worse had I been messing around with my hormones on the pill. The reason I never took the pill is because I was shy & preferred not to go to the doctor. Seems funny but it may’ve saved me from something bad.
While I don’t take the pill, I can fully understand why its an extremely attractive option for many women out there – I suffer quite a lot during PMS – depression, bloating, severe stomach cramps, tender breasts – and I know quite a lot of women who do actually get successful results from the pill where these symptoms are alleviated…. I’ve tried a bunch of things, healthier eating, exercise, more sleep, etc. and the symptoms remain.
Not everybody has a body that runs simply or like clockwork….so the pill is still a viable option for some women, even if it doesn’t work for everyone.
PMS, depression. bloating, severe stomach cramps, tender breasts – are all signs your body is screaming out that it is imbalanced. The pill isn’t fixing this, it is masking it so it isn’t a solution. You’re right, not everybody has a body that runs simply but if we give it the attention it deserves and iron out the creases, we can better understand exactly what it require to run optimally. This is a great solution.
Hi Nat, I love this post. I am a big believer in the theory our bodies talk to us. It took me a year of being on chemotherapy to realise this but thank god I know it now. I will never go back on the pill. I was told by my GP that it was ok to skip my sugar tablets thus skipping my period so long as I allowed myself to have 3-4 normal periods a year. (This was on Yasmin) I actually went with this advice.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and although I don’t think taking the pill was the primary cause for this I definitely think that the GP’s advice to skip my period was not helping my bodies current state.
Why do GP’s continue to give advice like it’s from a text book written in the 50′s. I’m so grateful that we are slowly moving into a society with people like yourself and Jess to help reassure us that listening to our bodies (and talking to them) isn’t wrong but actually completely appropriate.
It’s assuring to know too now that my decision to not go back on the pill is absolutely ok and healthy.
Ra
I have used a diaphragm in conjunction with Syllk natural lubricant (made from passionfruit vine and sperm do not enjoy its pH) instead of a spermacide gel..its easy peasy to use…my GP hadnt fitted one for years so with a little research on her behalf i was fitted and on my way
cost about $60, last a couple of years if you look after it well ( wash in mild soap, dry and store in its container) no chemicals or hormones…i think its wonderful and a blessing
its worked a treat…:)
I went off of the pill in July because I was thinking it was causing depression. Going off of it really threw me out of whack. I was getting a period every two weeks and breaking out, but what was interesting is I was feeling like myself again, like a part of me had been MIA for 5-7 years since going on birth control for health reasons. I have been doing a lot of research on how to get regular again and have been using progesterone cream. It has worked amazingly well. I highly recommend this. Great post! We need to hear this, continuously!
what a fantastic article. my sister and i were never screened properly when we went on the pill at 17 and 10 years later put the connection together of a family history of blood clots greatly increasing our own risk, along with elevated cholesterol readings in both of us. a little over a year of being off the pill, cholesterol levels are within the healthy range, and i have never felt more clear headed. although my body hasn’t yet reached a ‘normal’ rhythm i am a firm believer in au natural. share the wisdom!
This is what i want to know…awesome post!! Recently my GP STRONGLY recommend me IMPLAMON NXT rather than yasmin. I dropped chemist and bought IMPLAMON NXT….OOOO MY GOD!! This is look so scary!!! So I find youtube – how to insert and remove implanon.. After that I totally changed my mind.
Anybody had a comment about this?
I love all of your posts!
After reading your articles I stoped taking the pill about 6 mnths ago and focussing on getting my hormone balanced naturally.
I am the healthiest person I know (diet and exercise) but till have terrible skin and no period.
Could be due to low weight but i have learnt its my body telling me something .
It makes me upset that doctors really recommend the pill to do many young girls and women!
I will be on to answer all these questions tonight. Please be advised – so much interest has actually exceeded my broad band limit on my site BUT it will be back up and running really soon so please do stay tuned.
Back up the buggy!! All fixed. Thanks girls. I’ll be back later xo
What a timely email.
I have just had my first baby who is now 6 weeks old and have my OB app next week. My bub was conceived through IVF. After coming of the pill, a year later I still had not menstrual cycle, we tried many things to get it going but they did not work. This is why decided to give IVF a try.
We are hoping that after having a baby, my body will kick start again and my cycle returns. Fingers crossed.
All I know is I am definitely not going to be interfering with my body’s natural way and use drugs as a contraception!
Thanks for this post! I read your older post about the pill a while back and was DEEPLY called to go off of it after reading. My body had been telling me for years to go off and I was experiencing ALL of the horrible side effects listed on the package, none of which my doctor ever explained. I’m into my second month of being off and just can’t wait to get back to my normal body/self. Thanks for all of the great info!!
I love being on the pill! It gives me the freedom to enjoy sex with the comfort that I won’t fall pregnant (less than 0.4% chance)! I am on a pill which only has 4 inactive pills per cycle, however I skip my “period” (inactive pills) most months (only have it about 4 times per year) because I know the act of bleeding monthly while on the contraceptive pill is of no physical benefit and can cause discomfort, pain and iron deficiency anaemia if heavy. Bleeding while on the pill can hardly be called a period because there is almost no endometrial growth while on the OCP and the act of bleeding is merely a result of the reduction in hormones (oestrogen/progesterone depending on pill). The pill is an amazing medical advancement and provides women all over the world with relief from the worry of pregnancy, relief from menstrual pain, the ability to control when they are going to get their period, and even better skin, these things can all lead to a better emotional and mental state of mind.
Go the oral contraceptive pill! You have changed so many lives of women for the better all over the world!
Sadly Amelia, we have learnt that the pill isn’t as effective as we have been lead to believe. For many women, it has devastating effects, it has now been linked with cancer due to synthetic hormones, the statistics of pregnancy occurring whilst on the pill is high and those women on the pill have higher precedence of STI’s which will affect their long term health and fertility. For me in my line of work, there is nothing amazing about the pill at all. It causes huge vitamin and mineral deficiencies which rob the body of what it needs to work properly. And if you’re getting heavy bleeding… that’s another reason why it might not be such a good thing. I encourage you to be informed and explore your options.
Thank you for this guest post Jessica. I have never been on the pill but do use a copper iud. Wondering what your thoughts are about this non hormonal contraception? I worry more and more about this metal just hanging out inside me.. Any thoughts? Thank you again.
Hi Natalie, thank you so much for this post. I went on the pill when I was 16 for acne, and have stayed on it for the past 10 years. I have gone off it twice in that time but broke out terribly, and I become very depressed and moody (something that has never been an issue on or off the pill).
I have been doing lots of research and am planning to wean myself off the pill from December. I read that going off the pill can play havoc with your hormones, and I thought that maybe if I wean myself off and slowly give myself lower does of the hormones then it would give my body time to adjust.
What do you think about this? i am so scared to go off it and get terrible acne, I couldn’t handle it now. It wasn’t just the acne, my skin was so oily I had to shower and wash my hair twice daily.
I live in Melbourne, are you able to consult on this? I’m not so much interested in being fertile, I just want help balancing out my hormones.
A consultation is a perfect solution. Acne is a symptom – we can help you with this adjustment toward better health. It doesn’t necessarily have to be terrible.
I used the pill for 3months when I got married and I was a bitch 24/7 while on it, it just screwed wth me too much. So I stopped it and have used the withdrawal method and listening to my body. It worked for over 2years till we decided to start a family
I was a little shocked at this post – it is very one sided, has incorrect information and promotes misinformation to women out there who might be completely desperate for a solution to their unique female health problem. The pill never claims to be a ‘solution’ for endometriosis at all, there is no cure for endometriosis – but it’s certainly a very good way to help manage this horrible health issue. I know this first hand!
The pill should not be perceived as an ‘evil doctor invention’. I’m a big believer in the pill where it’s needed, it’s certainly not for everyone and shouldn’t be used as a prophylaxis – but its certainly for women especially like me with my health issues.
If you have ever experienced the horrific pain of severe endometriosis or ever been told “you’ll probably never be able to have children” then the pill actually assists in these horrific health issues, as a management tool.
I have severe endometriosis that is wide spread. Most recently (there have been several other surgeries before this one) I had a section of my liver removed and my diaphragm burnt apart and restitched back together, due to endo. Less than a year after that major endo surgery I was also diagnosed with cancer (a totally separate issue to the endo). My only saving grace was that 2 days after my cancer diagnosis, I found out that I was pregnant. My baby is a very happy and healthy little boy. Apart from my unique health issues, I’m an extremely healthy eater, have never been overweight and I exercise very regularly – I just got unlucky in some areas!
Before my endo surgery, the pill gave me some control back. I was having to take days off work and just missing out on my life due to endo – from what I’ve read, researched and had explained from my marvellous doctor, women like me with severe endo do not need a period, as it causes more harm than good! This bizarre notion that we ‘need to bleed’ I don’t agree with! Yes, I know it’s natural/normal process to bleed, but I’m not sure there is a woman out there who gets her period bang on the exact time every month at all, regardless of the pill! It’s also completely incorrect that your body needs ‘time’ to get the pill out of your system! Surely our bodies rid the pill/hormones etc almost as soon as we stop taking it! Our livers are marvellous things! Isn’t that why you need to take it at the same time every day, as the effects are gone within such a short time? I know as soon as I missed just one pill, I would be bleeding the very next day!
I was on the pill continually (i.e no bleeding at all, as it makes endo grow even more) right up until my husband and I decided to try for a baby, and yes, it was always going to be a struggle with the severity of my endo (and there were a hell of a lot more hormones/IVF/and a lot of tears involved in that process!) but we were lucky! (yes, I still consider myself VERY lucky even though I got a cancer diagnosis two days before finding out I was pregnant!)
Natalie you don’t seem very open to, nor do you clearly explain the benefits of the pill. While I agree with some of the things you say about all the hormones and toxins etc, I really don’t think that you are being very open and understanding at all, and you are only giving one side of the story, which is dangerous when it comes to any kind of health advice/promotion. I think you need to do a lot more research before you make blanket statements that are completely wrong and, most dangerously, misinform women.
Jess – I was surprised that you allowed a very one-sided post on your website?
Unfortunately Amanda, we might not see eye to eye on this. I have 10 years of experience in this field (on the back of 10.5 years of university study) and base much of what I share about on research as well as experience in the clinic. Endometriosis is in fact a very treatable condition. I have successfully helped 100′s of women, who now live pain free, edno free lives. So you are incorrect in saying there is no cure. Endometriosis or any hormone imbalance, is your bodies way of telling you that there is a problem.
I also had Endometriosis when I was younger – so I know exactly, first hand what you are talking about. I would faint from the pain, vomit and have to spend the day in bed. I’m no stranger to how it makes you feel. I must ask – have you explored natural treatment methods for your condition?
We also now know that the pill has been linked to cancer – the synthetic hormones are carcinogenic.
Reality is, if our bodies didn’t need to bleed, to cleanse and to prepare for the next menstrual cycle – they wouldn’t do it. We need to learn to trust that our bodies do such things because they are designed to do so.
One thing I can absolutely 100% say to you is that we require a minimum of 6 months off the pill without doubt to get synthetic toxins of the pill out of our systems. There are many studies that demonstrate just how depleted the body is post pill. It robs us of essential vitamins, necessary to be fertile to make baby. On top of this, in a perfect world, our livers do a good job at ridding toxins, but unfortunately they don’t get the chance to work as well as they can since toxins are everywhere and we can’t escape that.
Everyday, in my clinic I have to mop up the mess that the pill causes for hundreds of women. I do feel that I am in a great place to offer sound advice in this area.
As far as not supplying evidence for the benefits of the pill – that is because I believe there are very little benefits. As far as me needing to do more research – I am constantly doing research, everyday. This is the conclusion I have reached through clinic experience, personal experience, study, education as well as never underestimating my intuition.
I encourage you to look deeper into your endometriosis, the solutions and what your options are. I assume that as a follower of Jess’ blog, you are no stranger to alternative ideas that undoubtably provide a wonderful aid to better body function and amazing results. I do feel sad that you haven’t seen the benefit of my guest post but this is the information that all women should know so they can make their own informed decision.
Thanks Natalie for your reply! Yes, I have and still am exploring and taking many alternative therapies to combat my endo – believe me, I have tried everything I can get my hands on! I have suffered for more years than I care to mention and I think that’s why I felt it dangerous to completely discount the benefits of the pill – when you are in a very desperate situation you will try absolutely anything and everything that has merit to combat serious health issues! Please don’t get me wrong – I am certainly not discrediting your years of experience and research whatsoever, but I just felt that you cannot discount a possible solution (such as the pill) when it comes to health advice and promotion. Plus, there is always more research and more experiences that come up everyday – my doctors had never seen such severe endo on a female liver and diaphragm before me and I’m sure there will be more new cases in the future as well! Much like my cancer diagnosis, I am doing anything and everything I can to improve my lifestyle with a combination of alternative therapies and western medicines. It is truly important to have a balance in your life, so I wouldn’t say no to trying anything that might work!! Yes, I love Jess’ website, so felt it important to write my opinion, as there is always two sides to every story and finding your own unique balance in life is important!! Thanks again!
Doctors pushed for me to go on the pill since I was 14 and had acne and irregular periods, which 4 years later was diagnosed as PCOS only after my mum read an article about it and took it to the OBYN. At around 18 or 19 I finally caved into intense pressure from my mum and drs to go on the pill. It was the worst thing I ever did- I gained weight, became depressed and triggered certain PCOS symptoms to became worse. 6 months later I stopped against everyone’s advice to my own huge relief. It took a year for my period to return after healthier eating, exercise and acupuncture/herbs. When I got married I had no trouble conceiving, thank Gd. I did a course in natural fertility where a woman learns to track her fertility and I use a diaphragm as natural conception- its been 3 years on this method.
To the previous poster who sang the “wonderful” praises of the pill, its a very superficial outlook. If you knew taking pill long term would have unintended consequences on your health, such as in my personal circumstance, would you sing its praises so loudly?
Although I’m relatively young (in my 30′s) I’m old school and don’t believe or see benefits in using the pill to achieve sexual freedom. It’s just a mask because if you look at statistics of STDs and cervical cancer which has been linked to unprotected sex from a young age (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2057816/Cervical-cancer-soars-young-Rise-unprotected-sex-sees-cases-soar.html) and other ill benefits of supposed sexual “freedom”, it should make you think twice about the benefits of the pill. With all the modern conveniences, such as the pill,, it should also make us wonder why mental health and happiness is so on the decline. Our menstrual cycle is for a very good reason and should be the way nature intended it.
What a great post!
Oups! Dunno where the rest of my comment went?!
Just wanted to draw you ladies’ attention on the “LADY COMP”. Google it! I love it! Been on the pill, had a mirena… Wouldn’t go back! This gadget is fool proof!
Thanks again for this post! I think it’s a shame we have to find all this out ourselves… Drs should give us the real picture when time comes for us to choose! Will definitely check out your links and share!
Hi Natalie. What is your view on using the pill by those with ovarian failure due to chemotherapy? I’ve been led to believe it keeps the uterus healthy so you can still carry a baby (with the help of an egg donor).
Can you please comment on IUDs? The hormonal one – the Mirena – has much lower doses of hormones than the pill. For this reason, I chose to switch from the pill to the Mirena. I have had no problems with it and eat a whole foods, natural, organic diet while working out daily – a very healthy lifestyle. Yes, I would prefer a hormone-free option, but the Copper IUD makes me nervous with all of the extra cramping/bleeding. I would like to try the temperature/natural family planning method but IF they did not work, I would not want to be in that position! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on IUDs. Again, I know that you prefer non-hormonal but I think it would be nice to hear your point of view on them.
Thanks for your inspiring post! Ive been meaning to come off the pill and this was the last push i needed. I’m 21 and have been on it since i was 15. Could you please direct me to some information (website/book) where i can learn about reading my body, like you mentioned, and other contraceptive methods. Thanks
I’m reading an amazing book about this very subject right now. It’s so enlightening!!! I seriously cannot believe this stuff isn’t taught to every girl. I wish everyone would read it and pass it on. It’s called “Taking Charge of your Fertility” by Toni Weschler. Check it out.
The Symptothermal Method of Natural Family Planning, also called the multi indicator method is 99.6% effective for avoiding pregnancy when well taught to motivated couples. In addition, it is 99% effective for achieving pregnancy within 6 months barring subfertility.
It is an effective, healthy way to manage fertility that shares the responsibility without any drugs or devices.
By the way, it can be used by all women regardless of cycle length.
Women coming of the pill and making the decision to give this method a go can’t believe how good they feel after years of side effects. It can be used at every stage of life, after having a baby, breastfeeding or perimenopausal.
Learning about our fertility is empowering and gives us the opportunity to live in tune with nature. Tracking our cycles and charting also helps if medical interventions are required.
There are accredited teachers in each state of Australia and it is a method that is taught worldwide.
Check out http://www.acnfp.com.au which has a link to put you in contact with accredited teachers in every state of Australia.
Hope this helps anyone looking for a family planning alternative that fits in with healthy living. Cheers everyone.
I am writing from San Francisco, California, I was on the Yaz pill (not the new one Yaz Flex) for two years and not once did I get my period during that time. Do to ignorance, I was fine with it, but with this “freedom” came a price. That price goes by the name Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT for short. I did not know what was going on at the time, but I felt actual pain in my veins and throbbing. I am a very active person and this was interfering with my life, example going out for a jog became painful and uncomfortable.
I went to the doctors and they were not helpful, they attributed my pain with bad circulation. One day after picking up my prescription at the pharmacy, I started reading the side effect section of the paper that comes inside. It did not take me long to have aha moment. As soon as I read the laundry list of possible symptoms (one of which was DVT) and then proceeded to do a search on Google, I realized what had been happening to me. I stopped taking Yaz that day.
Thank you for putting the truth out there. Mankind, as always, trying to play God and manipulate things to their will, but as we have seen throughout time, there are always consequences.
I too was on the pill ywo years ago.I have had my children but we were going on holidays and i wanted to avoid my period so i took the pill for three months. in that short time i started getting really bad headaches to the stage i ended up in hospital one night after becoming paralized down my right side. after testing they found a large blood clot in my head pushing on my brain. After stopping the pill and placing me on blood thinners the clot finely shrunk and im back to myself again. but it now panics me every time i fly and i will not go on a long flight as it terrifies me. The doctors told me it was 99.9% the pill that caused it and that it ever happening again is very unlikely. So my oppinion now is dont go on the pill if you can avoid it…It almost cost me my life.
This whole post/feedback is so interesting and wonderful! I can relate to Claudia as I too suffered from very bad circulation in my legs while using the implanon and pill. While I am not 100% sure they were the cause, I never had any problems until around the time I got the implanon inserted after not being on the pill etc. for some years. I was diagnosed with shin splint. I couldn’t run as the pain was so bad and had to stop playing basketball once a week. This situation got me down and then when I started piling on the weight because I was unable to exercise just made it worse. I then got the implanon removed and lost about 20kg. Then my doctor convinced me to go on the pill and some of the weight returned. My doctor also told me the only thing I could do for my shin splints was to rest… I had been resting for nearly a year! Then something in my brain just “clicked” and I thought why am I taking the pill? It’s just not natural, then I stopped eating crap, join the gym and starting using alternative medicine to treat my bad circulation and swollen ankles, after just a couple of months using cupping and acupuncture I can run 10km and will never look back! I just wish it didn’t take me so long to realise all this 10 years ago!
Great article. I came off the pill 3 years ago and have never looked back. I did not experience any issues on it, but I did feel so much better when I went off it- I felt way more in-tune with my body and more like a Woman! (if that makes sense?). I have been exploring alternative contraceptive options with my partner and we have come across Cycle beads- http://www.cyclebeads.com/ – has anyone tried these? or have you heard feed back about them? Cheers!
Hi Natalie! Like many other commenters here I am on the pill solely to treat acne. I have been on Diane for over 17 years (started at about 15 years old). During the 17 years I have come off the pill twice – the first time, my acne came back so I went straight back on; the second time, I had been seeing a naturopath, and when my acne came back but I decided to try and treat it naturally. After two years trying to treat it with the help of the naturopath I still had full on acne and just couldn’t handle it anymore, and went back on the pill. I hate the pill – it makes me so moody, even depressed, low sex drive and just general low energy. I just can’t hack the acne though!! I read a post by Jess about eating clay though – do you think this could be a good natural treatment for the acne? I was thinking I could start taking clay while still on the pill, then after a few months or so (?) try coming off the pill while continuing with the clay? Any thoughts?
Thanks! : )
Great article, I was on the pil two years ago and ended up with a blood clot in my head. All tests came back that it was 99.9% the pill that caused it. so now my oppinion is stay off it if you can.
I’m sharing this post with everyone I know! Whenever I tell friends that I ditched the pill they immediately think I’m a recipe for unwanted pregnancy! What brainwashing! I took my last poison laced Yasmin one year ago and am now dealing with the repercussions of one period in 12 months.
“Taking charge of your fertility” is definitely the first book you should read of you are thinking about getting off. Now I’m taking the Flo Living classes and can’t believe how much I didn’t know about our own endocrine system. Once my training is complete and my body is healed I’m spreading this message far and wide!
Bookmarked! Saved! Shared – this is such important information. I have so many girlfriends who are scared to get off the pill for the first reason (pregnancy) and secondly because they have issues with their skin. I’m trying my best to explain that dietary changes along with exercise can correct most of the acne issues they experience, but people tend to opt for the easiest option, unfortunately. What would you say to women who object to coming off the pill for skin-related reasons? Thank you!
This is really interesting and in good time for me. I am 49, took the pill since I was 17, and now I am on the 3 month shot since around 10 years. I recently changed my diet significantly and feel much healthier, so I was thinking about getting of the shot as well. The reason why I changed to the shot is, that I had horrible headaches during the bleeding, and it was HEAVILY! Since on the shot, no headaches and no bleeding at all. I am wondering if, because of the change of my diet, I could risk to get off the shot now. My GP likes the idea of getting off the shot (as it harms the bones), but I think she doesn’t understand anything about diet and its possible connection? Does anyone have some thoughts about this? By the way, I don’t have a pertner, so I think, apart from the convenience mentioned before, I don’t really need contraception!
I am a holistic healthcare provider myself, and my whole life is based on organic living. But after 10 years and thousands of dollars, I have tried every natural and alternative therapy/treatment available in the USA to treat my severe endometriosis. I finally broke down and started taking the pill 6 months ago to try and shrink another endometrial cyst on my ovary to avoid another surgery (have had 3) and control the heavy bleeding that has caused me to be anemic. I had 1 week out of every month that was pain free, and the other 3 weeks were horrific. If there is a healthier method to treating endometriosis in AU that we don’t know about, please tell us! My marriage just ended due to the stress of my lack of health and fertility and medical costs. Acupuncture, massage, yoga, breathing, Chinese herbs, Ayurvedic therapies, counseling, vitamins, supplements, and nutrition have not made a dent in my endometriosis.
I was made to feel stupid when I complained to my doctor about some side effects I was suffering from the pill, like nausea, lack of drive in general (not just sex drive) and major pmt. It was suggested I go on the injection that stops your periods for several months. That was a great idea, not! Just made everything worse.
Although, I do have to say my first born is one of the 4% conceived with the withdrawal method.
Natalie thank you for the informative overview! After being on the pill for 10 years, I have been off the pill for over 18 months now and I have never felt better. I feel like myself again! However, my period is still irregular (every 2-3 months) and the facial skin pigmentation that emerged when I started taking Yas has not faded. Is it natural for my body to still be finding its way back to normality after all this time or is there something more I should be doing to help it?
This blog post makes me very distressed because I feel trapped in my need for the pill.
I am 25 and have been on Yasmin since I was about 16.
When I was 20 I tried to change to a different pill because I was experiencing break through spotting. 2 months after changing pill I experienced a series of severe anxiety attacks. Over 2 years I tried different pills (as the side effects re: sore swollen breasts / cramping/ no bleeding etc were not good ) and even tried taking a break from the pill. This was a really dark time in my life, where I didn’t feel myself, suffered horrible anxiety and was emotionally distressed all of the time.
I went back onto the Yasmin pill and felt like everything levelled out again and felt back to my ‘normal’ self. I have read about the risks of DVT with Yasmin and I also believe that it is unhealthy to take the pill. However, I have a great fear of stopping the pill incase it affects my mental health and I return down the path of anxiety again.
No one else has mentioned much about the pill affecting mental health, so I’m not sure. I just have a feeling that it “evens me out”. I turn into an emotional mess for the week that I have my period and take the sugar pills. It also makes my cramping/pains less severe.
Although, I think that it is dangerous to condone “withdrawl” as a safe method of contraception. It is just too easy for an accident to happen. I hope that other readers are sensible and take precautions. But I also think once you’re in a relationship for 5 years or more – the option of a condom isn’t a reality any more.
As a young women in today’s society, who is at least 5 years away from thinking about children, who doesn’t have the financial stability to afford an accidental pregnancy, who has struggled with mental health, who feels the pressures and expectations (and joys) of condom-less sex, who is in a loving long-term relationship, who is concerned about her health, I feel trapped in a pill cycle, that today’s young woman cant escape.
Stopping the pill is easier said than done. I want to stop, however I feel that I can’t.
Emily, you have articulated a lot of my feelings perfectly!!
I made the decision to stop taking the pill and I have had to defend my decision with close friends and family (people who I am comfortable sharing this type of info with in the first place). I have never liked the idea of trying to control something my body can handle naturally. Thanks for the post! It is refreshing to see my decision supported with more than just my own gut feeling.
hi jess or Nat, do you have any certain brand of condoms that are safe to use- im currently using (only when i neex to) some from woolworths but was interested in knowing if there are some brands i should avoid or if there are non toxic ones. A little into detail me and my partner were doing the deeds and i was worried that after there was an unusual burnt rubber smell & now im turned off them! thanks!
I recently decided to stop taking the pill. Then I came across this website, after reading these posts, I have definitely decided to stop. My pill cycle just finished and that’s the end of the pill for me. Bit worried, I generally get REALLY bad cramps (part of the reason I was on the pill and it sure helped with them).
I used to be extremely regular until I took my first pill, “Loette”, what a disaster, when I was taking the pill, I would get my period and when I was on the “tic tacs” I would not. Stuffed me up so bad. So, the Dr. changed me to Dianne, skipped many periods on Dianne, as in many many months (and not because I skipped the “tic tacs”, I have never once skipped a period on purpose). I then went to a specialist who advised I go on Yasmin, after a while of this my period doesn’t come for a couple months, then comes for one day, then not, then a drop…so now…bye bye pill. From being like perfect clock work, I am just stuffed because of the pill. I just hope the cramps don’t come back!
Thanks for the post!
Hi Nat,
This is all so interesting! I got my period when I was 11 and it was always very heavy, irregular and painful. I never wanted to go on the pill because of how it would interfere with my body’s normal, natural functions. However, due to severe period pain and a pelvic ultrasound and laparoscopy that showed no signs of endometriosis or PCOS the gynaecologist advised that there is no real explanation for the pain and that it is simply a matter of managing the pain and that the pill is the best way to do this. This was about four years ago when I was 19. I am sure that the pill is responsible for the weight I can’t shift, a lot of mood problems and now with my new pill (Zoely – which is so expensive!) such a low libido. I would really like to come off it and would love any further advice you can provide.
Cheers
Hi Nat,
Thank you for the post. It was very interesting to read. I’m currently on the pill for around a year. My doctor prescribed me because I suffered from 5 days headache and PCOS. I was trying to fix my diet and take herbs but my cycle didn’t improve. For a week, I suffered from massive headache. My GP said I should go on to the pill. I’m a Yoga practitioner and I didn’t want to go on to it but he said the chance of me getting pregnant in the future is low if I don’t take care of it.
When you said, PCOS is treatable, it seems impossible for me. I went on detox, herbs and change my diet to Low GI food… but the hormone was still irregular 
If I could, I want to go off! I don’t like taking any medication, I don’t like putting toxin into my body… but It’s very hard not to do so. Could you explain deeper WHAT is the solution is? It would be much appreciated!
Slow clap from me, building up to a round of applause and a standing ovation. What a powerful message you are sending to women all over the world. Kudos to you!
What an interesting read! I would love to find out more about alternatives to the pill. I have recently gone back on the pill after having 2 children, 1 naturally and the other through IVF. Both times my periods never returned which is why my OB has recommended that I go back on the pill to ensure I don’t get brittle bones when I am older.
I’m 54 and have never taken the Pill…I used the Billings Method and recently went through menopause. My initial reason for looking for something other than the Pill were the medical barriers surrounding the Pill and I wanted to manage my own fertility. I did a course and called my teacher over the next few months with any queries…before long i was able to confidently read the signs. Later when the Pill was easier to obtain, I passed, at that point, and it sounds strange, I would have felt unsafe on the Pill because I wouldn’t be getting the now familiar signs from my body. There were no accidents and I have a deep understanding of my body and have excellent health.
GPs over the years were horrified and thought I was taking unnecessary risks…easier to just take the Pill…doctors assume women can’t rely on natural methods….not true, some can, it does take commitment, we never broke the rules and it’s definitely easier in a supportive relationship…during your fertile period you need to use barrier methods carefully. Some women have said to me their partners don’t like condoms, their partners prefer them to take the Pill, leave it all to the woman. I consider a loving relationship is about working together and that includes birth control, it’s selfish IMO, to just expect the woman to take care of it, especially when it can affect her health and well-being. I understand though, some women prefer to take control and like the pill.
I also rejected pap tests (fortunately pelvic and breast exams have been scrapped here, I rejected them anyway) – my risk of cervix cancer is near zero while the risk of a false positive and excess biopsy or potentially harmful over-treatment is high, very high in the States and Australia who both seriously over-screen. The lifetime risk of referral for colposcopy/biopsy here is a hidden and shameful 77%…for a cancer with a 0.65% lifetime risk. Those who wish to test…take a look at an evidence based program, it will greatly reduce the risk of over-treatment but provide the same benefit…since the 1960s, Finland has had a 6-7 pap test program, 5 yearly from 30 to 60, they refer far fewer women for colposcopy/biopsy and have the lowest rates of this rare cancer in the world. The Dutch have the same program, but will move with the evidence and introduce a new program, 5 hrHPV primary triage tests offered at 30,35,40,50 and 60 and ONLY the roughly 5% who are HPV positive and at risk will be offered a 5 yearly pap test. Most women are HPV negative and can’t benefit from pap tests, they’ll be offered the HPV primary testing program. There is also a reliable self test HPV device available, the Delphi Screener, also being used in several other countries. This will take not-at-risk women (most women) out of pap testing and harms way and is more likely to save lives by identifying the small group at risk. The widespread damage caused to women by population pap testing has been dismissed as minor…I don’t agree. Cervical damage from over-treatment can lead to cervical stenosis, infertility, endometriosis, cervical incompetence, miscarriages, high risk pregnancy, premature babies, c-sections and cervical cerclage etc
Under the Dutch program those HPV negative and no longer sexually active or confidently monogamous may choose to forget all further testing.
I also recently rejected breast screening…the Nordic Cochrane Institute, an independent and highly regarded medical research group, have an excellent summary of all of the evidence at their website, “The risks and benefits of mammograms”. The NCI concluded a decade ago that breast screening is of little benefit but leads to significant over-diagnosis. Sadly, there are very powerful vested and political interests in women’s cancer screening and high emotion, I think it’s best to get to the facts and make an informed decision about testing and then if you test, you go in prepared knowing the risks and likely benefit.
I enjoyed reading your article, it’s refreshing to find someone who also trusts, respects and protects her healthy body.
Blogcritics and Unnecessary Pap Smears contains about 8000 posts from women harmed by screening and concerned about a lack of respect for informed consent in women’s cancer screening…and there is no consent at all in the States and Canada where women are routinely coerced into unnecessary exams and elective cancer screening to get the Pill and migraine meds, anti-depressants etc and may even be denied all non-emergency medical care until they agree to elective cancer screening and usually that’s over-screening and other harmful excess.
Wow! This article is amazing. So informative and exactly what I was looking for.
Thank you Jessica
Hi Natalie,
What if your period is so bad that skipping it would be a god send? I’ve tried every natural remedy and quite frankly, I wish i spent the money on something else. The thought of skipping them for the rest of my life is more appealing but I’ll settle for only 4.
The contraceptive pill is an incredible invention. I am 31, and have been it since I was 18. I have no health problems, and am thankful I have the choice to use it. I am sick and tired of women using fear to impress other women. The women’s lib movement was meant to stamp out oppression, not push it underground. I do not want children, never have. I resent the fact that in today’s society, it is still expected that women should base all of their decisions around their fertility. I am ridiculously happy with the fact that I can skip a period if I choose. And as someone who has just ended a relationship with a man who has two ex wives and four children in his past, I can tell you that the rhythm method is not as effective as you would like us to believe. My biology teacher tried to teach us the same thing at my religious high school…would you like to guess how many girls had a bun in the oven before we graduated??? I’ll give you a hint: you would need to use both hands, and borrow someone else’s to count.
I love that you are writing about this, but i’m still not convinced on the natural way. I want to go of the pill but I’m afraid of suddenly getting pregnant. I wish you would write more about it, because talking to so many others they don’t think it is safe. I have read your how to treat the acne when going of the pill, but can you write about period pains too?
Thanks!
I’m travelling next year alone, and want to stop my periods (or at least reduce them) for this time.
Simply because there are times when it’ll be terrible to have my period… such as on a 10 hour bus ride in a country where English isn’t the first language. I’d hate to have to wait until gas stops to change it, and risk the bus leaving without me.
I’m planning on going to a doctor to discuss my options, but was wondering whether you had any ideas? Maybe some alternative medicine ways to reduce it?
Not sure about withdrawal as a method of contraception. I teach a Year 10 Health class and I absolutely advise against that! I think the pill is a good method of contraception for younger women because it’s very effective at preventing pregnancy. I do recommend it to my students.
I have been on and off the pill for years and find it to be the most efficient and beneficial means of contraception. My skin which was terrible is clear and fluid retention non existent. I think the withdrawal method should only be for couples who aren’t really trying and don’t mind if they fall pregnant. It would be interesting how many ladies sitting in an abortion clinic are there due to the withdrawal method…….
Hi Natalie, first off I wanted to say thank you so much for this post. I have a lot to tell you and I can’t wait to share parts of my story. Regrettably, I started taking the pill when I started living with my partner (we have been together three years in August, we are both 18 – 19). I decided I wanted to take it because my boyfriend hates condoms and says they are uncomfortable and he can’t bare to lose his virginity to me (vice versa) and neither of us enjoy it at all. I will admit I was naïve because all I knew was “the pill”, which allows intercourse without getting the woman pregnant and doesn’t involve the man putting anything on his manhood! My friends had all lost their virginities at 12 or 13 (stupidly) so I was very proud of myself keeping it for a guy I really love at the age of 18. My GP seemed very enthusiastic about the pill and didn’t really say anything bad about it, just how it works. Now, the issue is, since learning about what the pill ACTUALLY does in a woman’s system, is quite scary and frightened me a lot because I am a very family orientated person and I plan to have children one day. Of course, for anyone not planning to ever have kids it probably isn’t that much of a scare but just the thought of taking something that stops something that is a natural part of a woman. I don’t know if this would make any difference to you but the fact I’m so young and doing this to myself – there has got to be a consequence right? I won’t lie, I do feel slightly trapped as I can’t use condoms with my partner as he hates them, and I really don’t condone any un-natural tricks to stop myself getting pregnant. If you could email me a personal reply that would be brilliant, as I just came across your blog by chance! Just in case my email doesn’t show along with this message, it is [email protected]. I would just like to know your opinions on my story and maybe what you think I should do, as pregnancy at this age is a big no no! Thank you. Hannah x
This is such a great post. All young women need to know this stuff! I don’t want to be dramatic and say that going on the pill in my early 20′s ruined my health, but it pretty much came close! It really upsets me to hear teenage girls say “I want to go on the pill for my acne and/or menstrual cramps”. My fifteen-year-old cousin said this to me recently and I launched into this huge lecture about all the terrible side effects I suffered and how hard I had to work to get my period back and conceive my first child. I think I scared the poor girl, which was not my intention. I just feel so passionately that the pill is not something to be taken lightly and women (and doctors) need to be really informed about it’s use, and that hormonal issues can be easily addressed with alternative therapies, rather than suppressing our natural female bodily functions. Periods are inconvenient but we’re supposed to get them!
Hi Nat, awesome post . Like many I feel trapped to stay on the pill. I am desperate to get off it but there is no way I would want to fall pregnant. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Lady Comp? http://www.ladycomp.com.au/