The birth control pill is an oral contraceptive that contains both estrogen and progestin. Although you may associate it with preventing pregnancy, your OB-GYN might also prescribe it to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or other issues. If you’re starting or considering birth control, here are a few benefits you might look forward to.

Why Should You Start Taking Birth Control?

1. Manageable Periods

Hormonal birth control pills simplify ovulation by regulating hormone levels. Your uterine lining is thinner, so the flow is lighter, and the cramps are less severe. Estrogen in birth control also increases clotting factors, making for a lighter and shorter flow. Extended-cycle pills can extend your cycle to every three months or indefinitely.

2. Less Hormonal Acne

The male hormone androgen, which your body produces in larger amounts during puberty, is linked to acne development. Birth control increases the levels of female hormones estrogen and progestin, reducing the circulation of androgen.

Researchers have found birth control pills can reduce both inflammatory and noninflammatory acne within several weeks or months.

3. Lower Health Risks

During ovulation, your ovaries release an egg. To prepare the egg for release, a fluid-filled sac called a follicle surrounds it. When a follicle doesn’t release the egg and instead continues to grow, it forms a cyst. Cysts can also form if, after the follicle releases the egg, it reseals instead of shrinking.

Your OB-GYN might prescribe birth control because it regulates or reduces the frequency of ovulation and can prevent cysts from growing or regrowing.

Birth control is also linked to reducing your risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer. According to studies, women who take birth control pills might be 50% less likely to get endometrial cancer. Also, the longer you take the pill, the more it reduces your risk.

For personalized and comprehensive gynecological care, contact Advanced OB-GYN Services in St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO. Dr. Hazan has more than 30 years of experience and prides himself on offering attentive, compassionate, and personalized service to each of his patients. He knows that emergencies and other concerns come up, which is why he offers same-day appointments and is on call 24 hours a day. He also provides a range of services including NovaSure®, a safe and painless treatment for uterine bleeding; annual exams; ultrasounds; and infertility counseling. For gynecological and obstetrical care in St. Peters, call (636) 928-1800. For Bridgeton, call (314) 291-2140. Visit them online to learn more about their services.