When people hear the words birth control, many immediately assume it is only about preventing pregnancy.
But doctors say that is just one part of the story. For many women, it is also a medical tool that helps manage painful periods, hormonal conditions, and even improves daily quality of life. 
According to Dr. Samuel Mauton, Medical Officer and mental and reproductive health enthusiast, birth control has several health benefits that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
ALSO READ: What Adeife Adeoye’s Glow Up Reveals About the Hidden Dangers of Birth Control Implants
The Health Benefits of Birth Control
Birth control does more than stop pregnancy. Dr. Mauton explains that there are many medical benefits, including:
1. Treating heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
Birth control treats heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) mainly by regulating hormone levels that control the menstrual cycle. Hormonal birth control like pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs thins the uterine lining, which means less blood is shed during periods.
This not only reduces the amount of bleeding, but also helps prevent complications like anemia and fatigue caused by blood loss.
2. Reducing painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
It reduces painful periods (dysmenorrhea) by controlling the hormones that trigger uterine contractions. During a period, the uterus contracts to shed its lining, and strong contractions can cause cramping and pain.
Hormonal birth control like pills, patches, injections, or hormonal IUDs thins the uterine lining and often stops ovulation, which lowers the production of pain-causing prostaglandins.
3. Managing hormonal conditions like PCOS
People living with PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) can benefit from birth control as it regulates irregular menstrual cycles and balances their hormones.
It reduces excess male hormones, which can improve symptoms like acne and excess hair growth, and helps control heavy or prolonged bleeding.
Regular periods also protect the uterus from problems linked to skipped cycles.
4. Helps in the treatment of endometriosis
For people with endometriosis, birth control reduces pain by controlling the hormones that trigger monthly flare-ups. It can make periods lighter or stop them altogether, slow the growth of endometrial tissue, and reduce inflammation. While it does not cure the condition, it helps manage symptoms and improves daily comfort and quality of life.
5. Lowering the risk of ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube and birth control lowers its risk by preventing ovulation or fertilization. When an egg doesn’t get released or sperm can’t reach it, there’s no chance for a fertilized egg to implant anywhere, including the fallopian tubes.
While no method is 100% foolproof, using birth control significantly reduces the chance of both pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy.
6. Reducing the risk of ovarian cancer
Birth control helps reduce the risk of ovarian cancer primarily by suppressing ovulation. Every time the ovaries release an egg, the surface of the ovary undergoes minor damage that must repair itself. Over many years, repeated ovulation can slightly increase the risk of mutations that may lead to ovarian cancer.
The Biggest Myth About Birth Control
One of the most common myths is that birth control causes permanent infertility. According to Dr. Mauton, this is simply not true.
After stopping birth control, the body may need some time to return to its normal fertility level. This can take weeks or a few months, depending on the person.
“Studies have shown that there is no permanent infertility from long-term use of birth control.”
Surprising Ways Birth Control Can Improve Well-Being
Managing painful or heavy periods is not just a physical relief, it can also affect mental health and productivity. Dr. Mauton says,
“For women with unpredictable, painful, or heavy cycles, birth control can be life-changing. It helps not only physically, but mentally, and makes them more productive overall.”
Feeling less pain and stress each month can improve mood, focus, and confidence.
YOU MIGHT LIKE: Why Jehovah’s Witnesses Refuse Blood Transfusions – The Hidden Truth
Choosing the Right Birth Control Option
Birth control is not one-size-fits-all. The best option depends on a person’s health, lifestyle, and medical needs.
Dr. Mauton advises visiting a primary health care centre or any health facility that offers family planning services. He explains:
“They provide education on the different types of birth control, including their advantages and disadvantages. This helps people make informed decisions.”
Talking to a healthcare professional ensures the choice is safe, suitable, and effective for the individual.
Birth control is not just about preventing pregnancy, it is also about health benefits and in some cases, side effects. However, when used with proper medical guidance, it can help women manage their bodies better and live more comfortably.
About The Author
