he pill is most commonly used to prevent pregnancy, of course, but while the birth control method is not be for everyone — there are potential side effects [1] — there are some side benefits that might make you want to choose this method above others [2], even if you're not having sex.
Many studies have been done around birth control pill's beneficial effects on everything from skin health [3] to cancer prevention [4], so we talked to an expert to see what were the known health pros of taking the pill. Know that this guide is just a starting point — you should definitely consult a doctor to find the best option for your health.
It Could Lower Your Risk of Osteoporosis
Taking birth control could help with bone-density building and prevention of osteoporosis [6]. "Some studies have shown that combined oral contraceptive pills may increase bone density [7] due to the protective effect of estrogen, but there are considerable concerns about starting combined oral contraceptive pills in the teen years [8] before peak bone mass is reached," says Jennifer Landa [9], MD, a gynecologist and chief medical officer at BodyLogicMD in Maitland, Florida. If you're concerned about bone loss, talk to your doctor to see if the pill might be helpful for you.
It Can Make Your Periods Lighter
"Some birth control pills may make you bleed less and for fewer days," says Landa. That's due to the progestin hormone them, which can thin the lining of the uterus, causing periods to be lighter [10]. "This is of course beneficial to women who have very heavy periods," the doctor says, since heavy bleeding can cause anemia or a low blood cell count, which can lead to other larger health issues.
It Can Reduce Cramps
Birth control pills can get rid of those painful cramps and muscle spasms you get while on your period. "They will frequently lessen the cramping [11] that women have with their menses," says Landa. "The main reason for this is that cramping [12] occurs when the uterus contracts to try to expel the blood clots and tissue that are expelled with menses." Because bleeding is usually lighter with the birth control pill from a decreased build up of uterine lining, there is less uterine contraction needed, which can bring relief.
It Could Clear Up Your Acne
"Most birth control pills seem to control acne [13] but only Ortho-Tri Cyclen [14], Estrostep FE [15] and Yaz are approved specifically for that use," she says. If acne is of big concern for you, discuss these three options with your doctor to find a dosage that works best.
It Regulates Your Cycle
If your cycle is wacky, birth control may help. "Some women prefer to be on birth control pills to regulate their cycle. The pill almost always produces a uniform 28-day cycle [16], which is very convenient when it comes to predicting when you'll be bleeding," says Landa.
