Rethinking Hormonal Contraception in the Age of Wellness
As the wellness movement gains momentum, questions arise about the scrutiny of hormonal contraception and its implications for women’s health. The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) has highlighted this issue in their recent ‘Viewpoint series’ edition, ‘The Wellness Blindspot.’
Delphine Chui of SPUC raises concerns about whether hormonal contraception is receiving the same level of examination as other health and wellness trends. She draws parallels between the public’s interest in the chemicals present in everyday products and the need for a similar discourse on contraceptive medications.
“Is it any wonder we’re facing a mental health crisis when study after study points to the impact of environmental toxins, while research also raises real concerns about the effects of hormonal contraception on some women’s mental health?” she remarked.
Peter Kearney, SPUC’s communications manager, echoed these sentiments, noting the inconsistency in the scrutiny applied to dietary and fashion choices compared to hormonal contraceptives.
Chui points out that the wellness industry has led many women to become more conscious of the effects of various chemicals on their health, citing the popularity of organic foods and natural products. She questions whether this awareness extends sufficiently to hormonal contraceptive use.
“The wellness movement has always been built upon the idea of empowerment through knowledge, as well as taking personal responsibility for our own well-being,” she said. “But are we applying the same level of care and scrutiny to what we put inside our bodies as we are to what we put on our skin?”
Hormonal contraceptives, which include synthetic forms of oestrogen and progestogen, are used to prevent pregnancy through various mechanisms. Chui particularly highlighted concerns surrounding the contraceptive injection medroxyprogesterone acetate, known as Depo-Provera, citing research linking its long-term use to increased risks of meningioma.
Despite potential risks, the contraceptive continues to be prescribed frequently, with approximately 60,000 prescriptions monthly in England, according to NHS data.
Chui also referenced a Danish study from 2016 that found a notable association between hormonal contraceptives and depression, with women using these contraceptives facing a higher likelihood of needing antidepressants.
Public discussions about these side effects are increasing, as highlighted in Channel 4’s documentary ‘Davina McCall’s Pill Revolution.’ The program shared a survey indicating that a significant portion of women experienced adverse effects such as depression and decreased libido, leading some to discontinue use.
Social media has also become a platform for women to share their experiences with mood changes, anxiety, and other side effects, fueling broader discussions about these concerns.
Chui believes these conversations merit serious consideration and advocates for a greater focus on fertility awareness and understanding natural menstrual cycles as a component of holistic health.
She suggests that to embrace true wellness, women should reconsider hormonal contraception in favor of understanding their natural cycles and working with their bodies rather than suppressing them.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
