Birth control pills prevent pregnancy by stopping monthly ovulation cycles and thickening cervical mucus to block sperm activity. Yet the pills and other hormonal birth control methods such as implants, patches, and IUDs have numerous other benefits. Here’s some information to help you determine which options are right for you.

What Are Some Other Uses for Birth Control Other Than Pregnancy?

1. Menstrual Cramp Relief

Birth control relieves menstrual cramps that can cause serious pain and make even mundane tasks challenging. By regulating hormones and preventing ovulation, birth control prevents uterine walls from contracting and inflicting severe discomfort. It also prevents sharp pains that can occur during ovulation and can prevent PMS symptoms.

2. Endometriosis Management

Endometriosis causes uterine tissue to grow outside of the uterus, resulting in bleeding, inflammation, pelvic pain, and a reduction in fertility. Since birth control can cause the body to skip menstrual periods, it reduces endometriosis symptoms.

3. Acne Treatment

Ovaries secrete male as well as female hormones, which can cause acne flare-ups. Preventing ovulation allows the skin to clear up while reducing chin hairs promoted by excess progesterone in the body. It also reduces hair growth above the lip, on the stomach, and between the breasts. 

4. Period Regulation

Hormonal imbalances not only cause cramps and acne, but they can result in heavy menstrual bleeding and irregular periods. Birth control alleviates heavy bleeding from thinning uterine lining. This allows the body to retain more blood and reduces anemia symptoms, such as fatigue.

5. Reduces Ovarian Cyst Risk

Sometimes fluid-filled cysts appear on the ovaries during the ovulation cycle. The cysts cause serious pelvic pain if they explode, as well as dizziness and fainting, nausea and vomiting, and abdominal bloating. Since the body doesn’t ovulate when on birth control, these cysts don’t get the opportunity to form. 

If birth control is right for you, make an appointment at Greece OB-GYN, LLP. The independent gynecology practice has served Rochester, NY, and the surrounding areas since 1963, providing a wide range of services for women, including obstetrics, family planning, and robotic surgery. They’re now available during evening hours. Call (585) 225-6680 today to schedule an appointment, or learn more about services online.