PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects one in every ten women during their reproductive years.
Although PCOS is a serious reproductive disorder, it is manageable with proper guidance and medications.
A commonly prescribed PCOS treatment for women who are not planning to conceive is the use of birth control methods.
But is birth control effective in treating PCOS? And is it safe to use birth control for PCOS?
Let us find the answers to these common questions about PCOS and birth control.
PCOS and Birth Control: Are Birth Control Options helpful for PCOS
Yes, many birth control measures can be implemented to manage reproductive disorders such as PCOS.
Studies suggest that contraceptives may help improve hormonal imbalances and promote menstrual regularity in women affected with PCOS.
The various birth control options available for PCOS-affected women include oral pills, skin patches, vaginal rings, and Intrauterine devices.
Among these options, Combined Hormonal Contraceptives (CHCs) are the first-line treatment options for PCOS.
Most hormonal contraceptives contain two hormones- Estrogen and Progestin.
Estrogen is a female hormone responsible for the regulation of reproductive tissues and the menstrual cycle.
Progestin is a synthetic substitute for the reproductive hormone Progesterone.
Besides regulating periods, these birth control methods can also reduce other symptoms of PCOS, such as acne, mood swings, weight gain and facial hair.
Let us learn more about the different types of PCOS contraceptives in the next section.
Best Birth Control for PCOS
Source: InkkStudios_from_Getty_ImagesThe best birth control option for an individual affected with PCOS is determined by evaluating various factors.
These factors include severity of the condition, ease of use and affordability of the method.
Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor to get a personalized treatment plan for PCOS.
After assessing your individual needs, they will prescribe the best-suited contraceptives for your condition.
Let us proceed and learn about the various birth control options available for treating PCOS.
Oral contraceptives
Oral birth control pills are the most common treatment method for PCOS.
Birth control pills for PCOS are available in the form of combination pills, comprising both Progestin and Estrogen or as Progestin-only pills.
PCOS oral contraceptives help by reducing Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and lowering Androgen production, a leading cause of PCOS.
LH triggers ovulation and helps regulate the menstrual cycle by signaling the release of an egg from the ovary.
Also, taking birth control pills may result in a lighter menstrual flow and decreased menstrual cramps.
Skin patch
There are certain hormone-releasing skin patches available for the management of medical conditions such as PCOS.
These patches are also known as Transdermal patches.
Transdermal patches are worn on a specific body part, such as the buttocks or belly.
They release small amounts of Estrogen and Progesterone in the body through the skin.
The effectiveness of skin patches for birth control is comparable to that of birth control pills.
Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring is an elastic, transparent plastic ring designed for insertion into the vagina.
This ring is a form of long-acting reversible contraceptive aid used for the management of PCOS symptoms.
Typically, the vaginal ring is worn continuously for a period of three weeks, followed by a one-week break to facilitate the menstrual flow, after which it is reinserted.
Progestin-containing Intrauterine Device (IUD)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are compact, T-shaped plastic devices that are inserted into the uterus.
These devices release progestin into the body and stay in place for a period ranging from 3 to 6 years.
Side Effects of Birth Control for PCOS
Source: Stojanovic_from_Getty_ImagesThe birth control measures discussed in the sections above may provide relief from some PCOS symptoms.
However, these contraceptives may also lead to side effects or even worsen the symptoms in some cases.
Moreover, birth control pills may result in side effects such as Nausea, headache, bloating, and weight gain.
However, for most women, the benefits of birth control for PCOS outweigh the potential risk of side effects.
Nonetheless, it is best to take birth control for PCOS under the guidance and prescription of a licensed doctor.
If you are experiencing side effects due to birth control, your doctor may prescribe other medications, such as Metformin and Ozempic.
Besides Metformin and Ozempic, various other medications are also available for the treatment of PCOS.
If you wish to learn more about these medications for PCOS, read PCOS Medication: Understanding Treatment Options.
Conclusion
PCOS is a chronic disorder among women of reproductive age that is often treated using birth control methods.
These methods include oral contraceptive pills, skin patches, vaginal rings, and Progestin-containing Intrauterine devices.
All of these contraceptives for PCOS work by releasing hormones such as Estrogen and Progesterone to regulate menstrual cycles.
In certain cases, these treatment methods for PCOS may result in side effects such as bloating, headache, and Nausea.
Therefore, the usage of these birth control methods should be conducted under the supervision of a certified doctor.
Consider contacting a trusted doctor to get a better understanding of PCOS and birth control for your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does birth control make PCOS better or worse?
In most cases, birth control pills regulate hormone production and aid in the management of conditions such as PCOS.
However, in some cases, these pills may worsen certain symptoms of PCOS as a side effect.
Therefore, consider closely monitoring your response to such medications under the supervision of a doctor.
Does birth control help PCOS lose weight?
While birth control pills can be beneficial for managing certain symptoms of PCOS, they are not specifically meant to promote weight loss.
However, these pills may indirectly contribute to weight management by reducing Androgen levels in the body.
What is the best birth control for PCOS and Endometriosis?
The best birth control for conditions such as PCOS and Endometriosis depends on an individual’s specific symptoms and medical history.
Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a doctor to learn about the most suitable option for your condition.
Why shouldn’t you take birth control with PCOS?
Birth control for PCOS may lead to side effects such as Nausea, bloating, and weight gain in some cases.
Also, certain contraceptives may increase the risk of developing Ovarian Cancer.
Therefore, it is recommended to take birth control pills only under the guidance of a specialist doctor.
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes, you can get pregnant with PCOS. Although PCOS can make conceiving challenging, many PCOS-affected women can still conceive and have healthy pregnancies.
If you are planning to conceive, your doctor may prescribe other alternative medications for PCOS, such as Metformin and Ozempic.
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