Beyond Pregnancy Prevention: Surprising Medical Benefits of Birth Control
Pregnancy prevention is not the only reason to talk to your gynecologist about taking the birth control pill. Many women use birth control to manage medical conditions that have nothing to do with pregnancy prevention. If you are living with any of the following medical conditions, talk to your gynecologist about whether birth control pills can play a role in your treatment.
Acne
If you have moderate or severe acne that isn’t responding to other treatments, birth control pills could be the missing piece of your care plan. The hormones in birth control pills help to prevent or reduce breakouts. Treating acne with birth control pills isn’t a quick solution—it can take a few months to get results—but many people find that birth control is the key to reducing acne flare-ups.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a frustrating condition caused by a hormonal imbalance. Women with PCOS often experience weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, and irregular periods. Birth control pills can help to rebalance hormone levels so that menstrual cycles become regular and other symptoms are brought under control. PCOS can also cause fertility issues, so if you decide to start a family, talk to your gynecologist about how you can stop birth control and continue to manage your symptoms.
Premenstrual Syndrome
Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, can affect some women up to two weeks before their periods, causing breakouts, bloating, and mood swings. Some women also suffer from a more severe type of PMS called PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which causes more intense symptoms. Women who suffer from PMS and PMDD can get a significant amount of relief from birth control pills.
Could birth control pills help you find relief from the symptoms of medical conditions? Schedule an appointment with a gynecologist at Women’s Healthcare Associates to find out. To make an appointment with a gynecologist in Houston, please call (713) 481-7052.
