Instant Genius What contraception is doing to our bodies – and what we’ll use in future
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Apr 20, 2025 Kate Muir, a women's health expert and author of 'Everything You Need to Know About the Pill', dives into the often overlooked effects of hormonal contraception. She shares her journey through menopause and her daughter's experience with the pill, revealing the mental and physical side effects that come with many contraceptives. Muir also discusses the unsettling history behind the birth control pill, explores innovative future options like non-hormonal alternatives, and emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in reproductive health.
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How Progestin Works in Contraception
- Understand that progestin thickens cervical mucus to block sperm and can suppress periods.
- Choose contraception types based on how they affect ovulation and menstrual cycles for your needs.
Hormones' Brain Impact
- Hormones affect many brain areas including memory and emotions via various receptors.
- Synthetic progestins may bind incorrectly causing brain chemistry changes unlike natural hormones.
Body Identical Hormones Potential
- Pills with body identical estrogen are now available and may react better in the body.
- Body identical progesterone contraceptives are not yet effective enough for pregnancy prevention.