The combined oral contraceptive pill, often referred to as the birth control pill or “the pill”, is a type of birth control that is designed to be taken orally by women. It includes a combination of an estrogen and a progestogen.

I was on birth control from 13 to about 3 months ago and i can tell you now, it has been the best decision!

I started on the Gedarel pill when i was 13 all the way up until the age of 22 and decided that it wasn’t working for me so thought i would try the injection (Depo-Provera). BIGGEST MISTAKE. The injection caused me to be on my period for the entire 3 months i was on it and for 3 months following this, i was having periods every 2 weeks. I was miserable, constantly emotional, stressed and anxious all the time.

I am now off all contraception and couldn’t be happier! I have no mood swings, my cravings have stopped, my periods are no longer irregular and i have no pain or any issues and my fitness is the best its ever been!

Common side affects to contraception –

• Spotting between periods. Breakthrough bleeding, or spotting, refers to when vaginal bleeding occurs between menstrual cycles
• Cravings
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches and migraines
• Weight gain
• Mood changes/swings
• Missed periods
• Decreased libido

Not only does contraception affect females in this way, but it also has an impact on exercise.

“Oral contraceptive users experienced diminished lean mass gains in response to 10 weeks resistance exercise training. They also had lower anabolic (muscle building) hormones and higher catabolic (muscle-burning) hormone concentrations.”

Research has also found that oral contraceptives are associated with a decreased VO2 max peak (the highest amount of oxygen you can use during exercise), a decreased ability to adapt to high-intensity training, as well as significantly elevated oxidative stress.

While the pill may sustain your performance throughout the month, some research suggests that your overall output may be lower than if you had a natural cycle.

So, in my opinion, i would recommend coming off of all contraception as there are so many side affects to them but it’s entirely up to you.