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It\u2019s true that most women have experimented with birth control, many of which have used it for a prolonged period of time. And while there are different types of birth control, they all essentially do the same thing: prevent pregnancy. This, in itself, has been a lifesaver for so many women across the globe.<\/p>\n
At the same time, there are side effects and other things to be mindful of when you take birth control. Just because all of them are taken or used in an attempt to not get pregnant doesn\u2019t mean that they all have the very same effects on the body.<\/p>\n
So, today, we\u2019re going to be talking about the different methods of birth control, and how each of them affect your period. This is not only a super informative \u2018cheat sheet\u2019 shall we say for those taking (a certain kind of) birth control for the first time. It\u2019s also great for those who are currently using birth control. Knowledge is power, and you may just learn something entirely interesting when it comes to how certain birth control methods affect your period.<\/p>\n
Arguably, \u2018the pill\u2019 and condoms are the most popular form of birth control. But there are so many other types of birth control out there:<\/p>\n
And then there are also two permanent methods of contraception:<\/p>\n
After having mentioned all of the modes of birth control, there are some that would have no effect on your period whatsoever. For that reason, we\u2019ll only be looking at those that do.<\/p>\n
The injection works similarly to the hormonal IUD. In other words, you may experience irregular bleeding for up to four months, but after this, the bleeding will subside, cause spotting, or go away completely.<\/p>\n
During the first six to 12 months, you may experience irregular bleeding, such as spotting. But, for the most part, having the contraceptive implant usually leads to lighter periods. In fact, it\u2019s been said to not only lighten one\u2019s period, but also help with painful period cramps and symptoms of PMS. A study showed that 75 percent of those who had used the contraceptive implant found that they experienced fewer bleeding\/spotting days than with a natural cycle, and 77 percent found significant improvement in dysmenorrhoea (painful periods).<\/p>\n
During the first menstrual cycle after using the patch, you may experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting. After this, it may cause bleeding irregularities. This is just your body getting used to the patch, and isn\u2019t something to be concerned about. In fact, a small study revealed that less than one in 10 users stopped using the patch because of bleeding and spotting.<\/p>\n
The copper IUD doesn\u2019t really impact your period in the long run because it doesn\u2019t contain any hormones. However, it has been shown to produce heavier bleeding and some spotting for the first few months of it being inserted. If you\u2019re opting for the hormonal IUD, this is a different story. With this kind of IUD, you may experience extremely light periods, or no period at all. There may be a chance of spotting now and again though, which means having a tampon, pad, or menstrual cup on-hand is a good idea.<\/p>\n
The contraceptive pill can impact everyone differently, but for the most part, it can shorten the duration of your period. It can also minimise bleeding. So, in the case of someone having, say, a five to seven day period, the contraceptive pill could lead some to have a three to four day period. It can also help to regulate your period.<\/p>\n
If you are taking this \u2018mini pill\u2019 it could induce lighter periods and could even reduce the amount of painful cramps. The thing about this pill however is that it must be taken at the same time everyday. If not, the efficiency and benefits of it may diminish.<\/p>\n
The vaginal ring works similarly to the contraceptive pill, but has a leg up! That\u2019s because you don\u2019t have to remember to take a pill every single day. If you have or plan to use the vaginal ring, you will most likely experience way less bleeding and a more regulated period. Using this kind of birth control means changing the vaginal ring on the correct day every month.<\/p>\n
Taking the morning after pill can definitely affect the length of your menstrual cycle. By this we mean, it could come earlier or it could come later. A more precise explanation: if you take this pill in the first three weeks of your cycle, you\u2019re more likely to get your period early. But, if you take it in the later part of your cycle, it may be delayed. Essentially, the earlier you are in your cycle, the sooner your period will come. This pill may also cause your period to last longer than normal, and some women may experience spotting between periods. It\u2019s important to know that the morning after pill is not suitable as a regular method of birth control, but only used in an emergency after unprotective sex.<\/p>\n
So, while we\u2019ve taken a careful look at how each of the birth control methods affect your period, there are more things to consider when deciding which one is right for you. With so many options however, there\u2019s surely a birth control method that simply works well with your body and your symptoms so you can live a happier and healthier life.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n