Step Away From the Pill

Oral contraceptives have become extremely popular amongst women as their primary source of birth control. In fact, 16 million females are currently using them and most say it is successful in preventing unwanted pregnancies. But, are the benefits really worth the long term risks? In my opinion, the answer is no. Here are 8 reasons why we should all steer clear of the pill: 

1. It interrupts our natural flow: Women who choose this type of therapy for a long period of time can actually cause more harm then good, especially from a fertility perspective. It is ideal to get connected with your own menstrual cycle and find alternative ways to regulate it on your own (more to follow on that topic). 
   
2. Cancer: Studies have shown that certain types of cancer are significantly increased in women who are on the pill for a long period of time, including breast and cervical. 
3. Lack in libido: Examining your desire for sex is more than just are you tired or in the mood- females on oral contraceptives report a huge decrease in their sex drive and only find relief and a recharge after they discontinue usage. 
4. Nutrient depletion: Key nutrients in our diet are depleted from using the pill. More zinc, magnesium, vitamin C and all of your B vitamins are required for women on oral contraceptives. Most don't know and are faced with serious health issues as a result. 
5. Potential dysfunction: Liver, kidneys, adrenal...Crash, boom, burn. 
6. Side effects: Weight gain, fluid retention, breast tenderness, mood swings, nausea, depression, anxiety...Need I say more? 
7. Even more serious: An increase risk in blood clots (especially if you smoke and/or over 35), heart attacks and strokes. 
8. Yeast overgrowth: Clinical studies show that because the pill gives a woman a steady stream of estrogen- it breeds candida. You will need, feed and crave sugar all day long. Take it from me, you do not want to battle a yeast overgrowth in your gut.

So where do we go from here? 

Although it may seem like the only option for preventing unwanted pregnancies, that could not be any farther from the truth. There are many different things to try including male/female condoms, diaphragms, and the most natural form: monitoring your cervical mucus. There is a specific method out there that is worth investigating. It's called The Billings Ovulation Method. Studies have proven this type of birth control to be just as effective as the pill when done correctly. Not only that, it allows you to connect with your own body and natural cycle, making the process of understanding your own fertility when you potentially decide to start a family. It also will bring awareness to any kinds of issues that may be going on that will need to be checked including irregularities, abnormal bleeding, changes in discharge, etc...  

As you can see, I am extremely passionate about this topic as I believe it is one of the many main reasons women are suffering and facing some pretty serious health issues. How quick are doctors to put all females on the pill starting at a very young age? It's not right and it's certainly not the answer. I believe the more awareness we bring to this topic, the more empowered we will feel to take control of our own health and be our best advocate. Although I am not here to judge and support a women's right to choose what is best for her body, I do think that this issue is something we all should be examining in our lives. There is a better way and it's our job to make sure we do anything and everything to find what the best option is for our lives and our future. 


Please feel free to comment on what you think! I think this is a hot topic that deserves more discussion.

To a Cycle of Success, 
Alicia