Light at the end of the pill tunnel

Has anyone heard of PBCS?? It stands for post birth control syndrome, and its a HUGE problem......
Have a read, share your insight, ask some questions... Enjoy xx

Post Birth Control Syndrome (PBCS)

Let’s talk hormones this week. Hands up (ladies!) if you’ve ever been on the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) , had an IUD, Mirena, hormonal implant or injection? Hands up if you were given the OCP for the first time as a teenager? Most likely to “help” heavy or painful periods, acne or indeed, as a contraceptive? For those that have since come off their contraceptive, or had it removed, hands up if old period/cycle/ovulation symptoms returned or new, more concerning symptoms began within 6 months of ceasing the medication?

It is an all too familiar picture that I see in clinic, with most women having been told none of the potential side effects of these hormonal medications, much less have been told about post-birth control syndrome, or to put it simply, what happens to your body and your menstrual cycle once you decide to come off the OCP……

Although I will seats support any woman’s choice to use hormonal contraceptives and what feels right for them, regardless of the reasoning, I also feel a strong duty of care to advise women of the full picture, risks and potential aggravations from introducing synthetic hormones into their bodies. Patients of mine will attest to my support of their decision to incorporate these medications, IUD’s or other hormonal contraceptives.
BUT…….. Here is the thing…… Did you know that the OCP may increase the risk of certain reproductive and breast cancers? It also increases the risk of developing blood clots. It is well documented that it depletes important B vitamins, folate, magnesium and heavily disrupts the gut microbiome (hello thrush and bloating). I have lost count of the many women who felt incredibly mentally and emotionally affected from taking the pill. Stories of severe depression and anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fatigue and erratic moods are an all too common adjunct to hormonal contraceptive use.

Typically, a woman will visit a Dr, complaining of heavy or painful periods, an irregular cycle or have diagnosed reproductive condition such as endometriosis or Poly Cystic Ovarian syndrome. Generally, too often, without so much as an ultrasound, bloods or a referral, most women are prescribed the pill, under the impression that it will ‘fix’ the problem, heck, why not skip the bleed all together and continuously take your active pill indefinitely, to avoid the ‘inconvenience’ of a period. I wholeheartedly appreciate that for those with extremely painful and heavy periods, this is a necessary and welcome relief. Having suffered endometriosis myself, I know all too well the dread that comes with that time of the month. My frustration comes from women not being given options, knowing that help is out there in other forms. Herbal medicine, thorough medical and gynaecological investigation to find the root cause, acupuncture, healthy lifestyle and reducing stress, exercise and understanding.

Generally, most women that I see that come off their contraception, either for trying to fall pregnant or to simply give their body a break from shutting down the messages from our brain to our ovaries, experience a back lash. Some women experience amenorrhea, meaning that their period doesn’t return at all, or for at least 6 months, some never. Most women find that they resort back to what their periods were like BEFORE they went on the pill, because, surprise surprise, the pill DOES NOT FIX the problem.

We need to regain control and understanding over our bodies. Have someone help us figure out what is the cause behind their symptoms, not just whack a big synthetic, hormonally active, nutrient depleting band aid over it and hope it goes away. Has anyone else noticed the rates of infertility in Australia lately…….?

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with post-birth control syndrome such as:

 Amenorrhea (loss of menstruation)
• Heavy, painful periods
• Infertility
• Hypothyroidism
• Acne, cystic acne, rosacea
• Migraines
• Headaches
• Hair loss
• Depression
• Blood sugar dysregulation
• Anxiety
• Gas or bloating
• Gut dysbiosis
• Inflammation and other immune imbalances