As a woman navigating the complexities of reproductive health, I found myself frequently pondering the best contraception options. Growing up, I was exposed to various contraceptive methods, from hormonal pills to lasting solutions like IUDs. After relying on hormonal contraception for many years- the pill, I made the pivotal decision to switch to Natural Cycles. This choice significantly impacted not only my bodily autonomy but also my mental well-being—a factor often overlooked in healthcare discussions.
In this blog post, I want to share my journey towards embracing natural contraception, the mental health challenges I faced upon discontinuing the pill, and how I manage the weight gain, acne and hormonal imbalances that followed-
this was a journey of self-acceptance.
The Backlash Against Natural Cycles and contraception
Transitioning to natural contraception methods, particularly Natural Cycles, brought hope for reclaiming my body and mental clarity. However, I faced unexpected challenges. Many nurses and healthcare providers showed scepticism about my choice. I remember when I was 16 years old, I made the decision to seek contraceptive support. As any teenager, you turn to google to see what options are available. I vividly remember reading about natural contraception and feeling drawn to it. I felt confident to speak to a nurse to get advice on how to start natural contraception.
During consultations, I often felt dismissed. It seemed that synthetic methods were prioritised, leaving little room for natural alternatives. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t being heard by the professionals I turned to for guidance.
While I respect medical knowledge, this dismissal made me feel isolated. It prompted me to question whether women like me were being given all available options or if we were being pushed towards specific methods of contraception.
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances After the Pill
Ending my use of the pill was far from straightforward. Initially, I was eager to discover how my body would feel without artificial hormones, but the experience quickly became overwhelming.
After stopping the pill, I experienced a positive change: the absence of mood swings. I could feel my emotions again, although I struggled to understand how I should feel at that moment. On one hand, I was thrilled to feel free and relaxed, but another part of me felt disconnected because I didn't recognise myself with these emotions. My family noticed the change, often saying, "Since you stopped the pill, you are so much happier," and I was. I remember the first time I got my first "real" period again, I cried, but this wasn't tears of upset, but tears of happiness. However, this happiness was short-lived, as I faced many challenges over the next three years.
One primary challenge was managing hormonal imbalance. After 8 years on the pill, my body had adjusted to synthetic hormone regulation. Stopping the pill led to noticeable emotional and physical upheavals, including frequent mood swings. I often felt emotionally unstable, like I was on a rollercoaster ride.
Moreover, I unexpectedly gained weight, which brought about a wave of emotions that were difficult to navigate. It was disheartening to witness my body change, and I found myself grappling with feelings of self-acceptance and concerns about my appearance. This experience was particularly challenging for me, as I have faced body dysmorphia disorder and an eating disorder in the past. The rapid weight gain not only altered my physical appearance but also deepened the disconnect I felt from my identity. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed in such situations, and I empathise with anyone who has faced similar struggles. The journey toward self-acceptance can be incredibly tough, especially when it feels like our bodies are not reflecting who we truly are.
I couldn't tell you how much weight I gained, but as I slowly watched the clothes in my wardrobe mock me for no longer fitting, I knew a significant change had happened. This change made me rethink my approach to health and well-being, sparking research on this topic and conversations with friends who were on contraception.
My skin underwent significant changes. I always had smooth skin, and I didn't anticipate that discontinuing the pill would cause acne to appear along my jawline. I managed to clear my skin with the helping hand of Skin + Me.
It took me nearly four years to restore my hormonal balance, lose the weight I had gained, and achieve clear skin, but it can be done, so please do not feel defeated if you are experiencing similar changes or fearful of stopping contraception.
The Impact on Mental Health
Even though my mood improved, the change in my body had a major negative effect on my self-perception.
Being around my friends made me feel extremely uncomfortable. I despised preparing myself and looking in the mirror, only to see a reflection of someone I didn't recognise. It was a burden to force a smile and act like everything was fine, while inside I was slowly unravelling.
Gradually, I began to feel like I was giving up on myself and my body because attempting to "fix" myself seemed like a burden. My weight would change frequently. Even though I tried to accept the fluctuations, it was challenging to learn to love myself. This journey, however, put me in such an uncomfortable position that loving myself became the only option. I had to learn to be patient and gentle with myself, understanding that this is only temporary. Yes, it affects my mental health, but knowing that discovering the key to self-love will enhance my mental well-being.
The weight gain wasn't the sole issue affecting my mental health; the transformation of my skin also shattered my self-confidence. As I mentioned before, I always had smooth skin, but discontinuing the pill disrupted my hormonal balance so much that I dreaded seeing my reflection. I grew tired of disliking the person I saw and realized it was time for a change.
Embracing Self-Acceptance Through the Journey
As I worked through weight gain and emotional challenges, I found that self-acceptance played a vital role in my journey. Instead of viewing my body negatively, I began to see changes as part of my personal growth.
I turned to journaling and mindfulness meditation to cultivate a positive mindset. By tracking my menstrual cycle, noting fluctuations, and adjusting my lifestyle, I gained a better understanding of my body. Knowledge became an empowering tool in accepting my natural rhythm. I am so grateful for natural cycles and the science behind their product.
Moreover, I shifted my focus toward celebrating what my body could do rather than how it appeared. For instance, achieving small fitness milestones or feeling more energetic became reasons to celebrate, diverting my attention from the scale.
Final Thoughts
In a setting where women's health options often seem restricted or neglected, I have discovered empowerment by opting for natural contraception—Natural Cycles—and dealing with the related challenges, such as mental health effects. Every woman's path in making contraceptive choices is profoundly personal and distinct.
It’s essential to expand conversations about women’s health to encompass mental health as well.
I hope my experiences resonate with others—especially women and teenage girls facing similar challenges—encouraging us all to advocate for our health and choices in a world that sometimes struggles to listen.
If you're interested in learning about Natural Cycle, click the link: Natural Cycles: Natural Birth Control | No Hormones or Side Effects
Need help with acne after hormonal contraception, click the link: Skin + Me vs High Street Skincare
With Love,
Diandra