Instant Genius
What contraception is doing to our bodies – and what we’ll use in future
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.
42:33
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Quick takeaways
- Understanding the effects of hormonal contraception on mental health is essential, as many women report side effects like depression and anxiety.
- The future of contraception is shifting towards non-hormonal methods and advancements in male contraceptives, offering more diverse options for reproductive health.
Deep dives
The Basics of Hormonal Contraception
Several forms of hormonal contraception are available, including the combined pill, progestin-only pill, hormonal and copper coils, injections, implants, and condoms. The common standard pill contains synthetic hormones like levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, which can have varying effects on different women. For example, while some progestins might lead to weight gain or mood swings, others are associated with more favorable outcomes like improved skin or menstrual regulation. Understanding the specifics of these hormones and their side effects is crucial, yet many women remain unaware of what exactly they are putting into their bodies.
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