With approximately 10 million women in the U.S. using oral contraceptives, it's understandable that questions arise about their function and effects. While many use 'the pill' for pregnancy prevention, others find it helpful for managing menstrual cycle irregularities or supporting overall hormonal balance. Whether you're currently using the pill, considering it, or exploring ways to maintain hormonal well-being, it's beneficial to understand how it works
How the birth control pill works
Birth control pills work by giving your body small amounts of the two main female hormones: Progesterone and estrogen. The quantities in each pill are different, depending on which day you take them, but their overall goal is to halt ovulation (the release of an egg into your uterus), therefore, preventing pregnancy. The thought process is that if we prevent ovulation by controlling hormone levels, we can also effectively control symptoms related to excess hormone levels. Unfortunately, the human body isn’t that simple.
Are there risks to being on the pill?
Not every woman responds well to hormonal contraception (ask a friend who’s been on the pill how many different types she needed to try before finding the "right" one). Simply put, if you’re exploring birth control for reasons beyond pregnancy prevention, it may help to speak with a healthcare professional about what’s best for your individual hormone health. Here’s why:
Oral estrogen and progesterone therapy can cause a ton of side effects, some annoying, and some more serious. A few common ones are weight gain, acne, irregular cycles, headaches, or mood changes. More rare adverse effects include cancer, blood clots, or stroke (especially if you smoke). In addition, when you’re finally ready to come off the pill, it can take months to get your cycles back & regular (not great if you’re trying to start a family).
The lesser-known impacts of the pill include a bunch of nutrient depletions. Simply put, if you are taking the pill and are NOT adding back these important vitamins & minerals, you may notice changes in how you feel, such as shifts in energy or digestion, especially if nutrient intake is lacking.
Birth control pill nutrient depletion:
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B9
- Vitamin B12
- Magnesium
- Tyrosine
- Vitamin C
5 Recommendations for Natural Hormone Control
If you're exploring options beyond the pill to support your hormonal health, there are several natural approaches worth considering. Many individuals find that lifestyle factors like balanced nutrition, stress reduction, and consistent exercise contribute to their overall sense of well-being. Let's delve into some methods that may assist in maintaining hormonal balance.
1. Adjust Your Diet
Focus on a whole-foods diet including healthy fats, lean protein, and LOTS of veggies. Some of my favourite hormone-balancing foods include: broccoli, flax, oats, & berries. Cut out red meat, dairy, processed foods, and added sugars for faster results.
2. Incorporate Chinese Herbs Into Your Routine
For generations, chasteberry has been employed in herbal practices to support women's well-being, particularly concerning hormonal fluctuations. Similarly, Chinese herbal medicine has a long-standing history of using specific herbs to maintain hormonal balance. DAO Labs' Four Substance is inspired by traditional Chinese herbal formulas used to support menstrual wellness and overall vitality.
3. Keep Exercising
"You don't need to engage in high-intensity workouts to support your hormonal system. Consistency is key—regular, moderate physical activity can be beneficial. Incorporating enjoyable exercises into your weekly routine may aid in maintaining a balanced mood and overall well-being.
4. Watch the Stress Levels
Stress management is often considered an important aspect of overall hormonal well-being. There is an intimate connection between our stress hormone, cortisol, and our reproductive hormones, estrogen & progesterone (this connection is poorly understood by conventional medicine, so always work with a functional medicine practitioner or naturopathic doctor if this is a weak area for you). In order to get started, consider taking some much-needed "me time", sip relaxing herbal tea, and do more of what makes you smile.
5. Sleep!
This simple lifestyle change should not be overlooked when it comes to balanced hormones. Aim for at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, and make sure you put your devices out of sight 60 minutes before you head to bed. Some people explore supplements or herbs traditionally used to support the body’s stress response and overall energy levels. Consistency is key when it comes to this element!
Are you looking #ownyourcycle and balance your hormones naturally? Our Women’s Kit is designed to support your overall hormonal wellness. Try it risk-free for 60 days. Bonus? By purchasing our Women's Kit, you'll automatically be entered in a monthly drawing for free acupuncture treatments! Take your holistic health goals to the next level and join us.
Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider. This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease. That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options. If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com.
