For decades, the birth control pill has been the go-to option for contraception. It’s convenient, effective, and widely available—qualities that once made it a game-changer for women wanting control over their reproductive lives. In a way, the pill became synonymous with empowerment, giving women more freedom and flexibility in family planning. But as we’ve grown more knowledgeable about our bodies and long-term health, many of us are beginning to ask, “Is the pill still the best choice for me?”
There’s a quiet but powerful shift happening in women’s health. As we learn more about the effects of hormones on our overall well-being, more women are choosing to explore alternatives to hormonal birth control. It’s not just about avoiding pregnancy anymore; it’s about honoring our health and making choices that feel truly right for our bodies. We’re re-evaluating options that allow us to feel our best physically and emotionally.
In my practice, I see this shift up close. Many of my clients come to me feeling torn—they’re grateful for the pill but have also heard about its side effects, some of which can be quite serious. They’re seeking something that aligns better with their wellness goals and doesn’t require trading off physical or emotional health just for convenience. Science backs up these concerns, with studies linking the pill to an increased risk of certain cancers, shifts in libido, and mood changes. And while the risks might not be the same for everyone, it’s clear that women deserve options that reflect their whole selves.
Women today are redefining what wellness looks like, and that includes looking at birth control with fresh eyes. Let’s explore what the science says about the pill’s impact, how it could be affecting us, and the growing range of alternatives that are empowering us to take control of our reproductive health in ways that feel true to our bodies and values.
Understanding the Risks: Cancer Concerns
When it comes to hormonal birth control, one of the biggest concerns many women are starting to examine more closely is its potential link to cancer. For so long, the pill was promoted as safe and effective, even life-changing for so many of us—giving us the freedom to make our own reproductive choices without a second thought. But as more research emerges, new information is coming to light that we can’t ignore, especially when it comes to breast and cervical cancer risks.
A significant meta-analysis published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that women who are actively using, or have recently used, birth control pills may be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. The researchers noted that while this increased risk does start to decline over time once a woman stops taking the pill, it’s still present for women currently on hormonal birth control. And because breast cancer is already a major concern for many of us—either due to family history or personal risk factors—this link can be unsettling. It’s not meant to instill fear, but rather to empower us with knowledge. Understanding how these hormones might influence our bodies allows us to make informed choices.
Cervical cancer is another risk that’s come under the microscope. A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that women who use combined oral contraceptives have a heightened risk of developing cervical cancer. It’s a reminder that the hormonal choices we make aren’t only affecting our ability to avoid pregnancy—they’re having a ripple effect throughout our bodies in ways we might not fully see at first. While the pill remains a popular choice for many, these findings emphasize the need to weigh our options carefully and understand the full scope of what each choice could mean for our health.
It’s essential to recognize that while the pill has empowered many women to manage their reproductive health, it’s not without potential drawbacks. Informed consent is paramount; women should have access to comprehensive information about all contraceptive options, including the pill’s associated risks. This knowledge enables each woman to make decisions that align with her health and personal values. The way I see it, contraception should never come at the expense of our long-term wellness.
The conversation around cancer and hormonal birth control is an opportunity for us to take stock and decide what truly feels right. Do we want to continue with the pill, knowing there may be these added risks, or are there other options that might suit our health and lifestyle better? Either way, the goal here is choice—real, informed choice.
For so long, women have been presented with the pill as a “one-size-fits-all” solution, but science now shows that there’s more to the story. Today, we have a broader spectrum of options to choose from, and we’re in a place where we can say, “This is my body, and I want to know what’s best for it.” Whether that’s sticking with the pill or exploring alternatives, the choice should be fully ours, guided by accurate information and, most importantly, by what feels healthiest for us.
Emotional Health: Depression and Mood Changes
Choosing birth control is never just a decision about physical health—it affects us emotionally, too. For some women, the impact on mental health can be profound, and it’s something we’re finally seeing validated in research. A comprehensive study from Denmark involving more than a million women found a significant connection between hormonal contraceptive use and an increased risk of depression. Published in JAMA Psychiatry, this study highlighted that young women, particularly those between 15 and 19, are especially vulnerable. For many women, these effects are more than just a list of side effects; they’re deeply personal shifts impacting how they feel daily, interact with others, and see themselves.
Imagine being a young woman, perhaps just beginning to understand your emotional landscape and suddenly feeling weighed down by emotions that don’t feel like “you.” These emotional shifts can feel confusing and isolating. For some, sadness or hopelessness seems to come out of nowhere, affecting school, work, relationships, and overall outlook. The emotional toll extends beyond just “feeling off” for a day or two; it can affect how they experience and participate in their lives. This isn’t something we should take lightly.
Further research in Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology has strengthened the case, showing that hormonal contraceptives are often associated with mood swings, increased irritability, and heightened anxiety. Many women on hormonal birth control report feeling unusually tense or emotionally reactive, which can have a ripple effect on their relationships and self-esteem. When you don’t feel like yourself, engaging fully with life is difficult. Simple things, like enjoying time with friends or maintaining focus at work, can become difficult.
It’s disheartening that these emotional effects are so often brushed aside. Many women have been told, “Oh, that’s just a minor side effect,” or, “It’ll get better over time.” But for those living with these impacts, it’s far from minor. These emotional shifts can strain relationships and lead to a cycle of self-doubt. We deserve to know that there are options that don’t compromise our mental well-being for the sake of convenience or effectiveness. If experiencing something that disrupts our lives or affects our happiness, we must be taken seriously and given real choices.
It’s not just about the physical side effects anymore; the mental and emotional implications of birth control are coming to light, and more women are speaking up. Our emotional health is a fundamental part of our well-being, and it deserves the same attention as physical health when it comes to choosing a contraceptive method. For some women, these studies are affirming what they’ve felt all along—that they want a birth control method that honors both their body and mind.
This is why I’m so passionate about presenting alternatives to my clients. Women deserve options that respect their mental health as much as their physical well-being. Contraception should enhance our lives, not diminish them. The science is clear: emotional health is an essential factor in the decision-making process, and we shouldn’t ignore it. We should be able to choose methods that allow us to feel empowered, stable, and truly ourselves.
Libido and Sexual Health: Understanding the Impact
One of the most personal and often unspoken side effects of hormonal birth control is a reduction in libido. I’ve had many clients confide that, while they appreciate the convenience and reliability of the pill, they’re frustrated by its impact on their sexual health and sense of intimacy. In our culture, there’s so much emphasis on finding effective birth control. Still, far less attention is given to how hormonal contraceptives might be affecting a woman’s desire, arousal, and overall satisfaction in her relationship.
Research backs up these experiences. Studies, such as those published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, have found that women on oral contraceptives frequently report lower levels of arousal, satisfaction, and overall interest in sex. This can feel incredibly isolating. Many women have expressed to me that they feel a bit lost, wondering why their interest in intimacy has faded and whether something is “wrong” with them. But these effects are a well-documented side effect of hormonal birth control, and they are far more common than people realize.
Another study published in Contraception revealed that hormonal contraceptives often lower testosterone levels in women, a hormone that plays a key role in sexual desire and energy. For some, this shift can lead to a noticeable and distressing decline in libido. The drop in testosterone isn’t only about physical arousal; it affects mental and emotional aspects of desire as well. Lower testosterone can make feeling that spark or excitement more challenging, even if they feel emotionally close to their partner. It’s a situation that many find frustrating and disheartening.
One client once shared, “What’s the point of birth control if it makes you feel like you don’t even want to be close to your partner?” It’s a poignant question that resonates with many women in similar situations. Physical intimacy is vital to relationships and emotional connection, and when that aspect begins to feel diminished, it can impact more than just the physical experience. It can leave women feeling disconnected, not only from their partners but also from themselves.
From my perspective, a woman’s choice of birth control shouldn’t have to come at the expense of her happiness or relationship satisfaction. Sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being, and a reduction in libido is not just a small inconvenience—it’s a meaningful loss that affects a person’s quality of life and sense of identity. Yet, many women who experience this are often told to “just give it time” or “try to work through it.” These conversations should be more compassionate and informed, focusing on women’s needs and well-being.
The good news is that there are alternatives, and many women find that their libido naturally returns once they transition off hormonal contraceptives. For those seeking non-hormonal options, natural fertility awareness methods, copper IUDs, or even hormone-free cycle tracking apps can offer contraception without impacting their libido or relationship dynamics. Knowing that alternatives exist can empower women to make choices that don’t compromise any aspect of their health, including sexual wellness.
Contraception should be a supportive, empowering choice, not a source of frustration or loss. We should have access to options that allow us to feel fully ourselves physically and emotionally. We must keep having these conversations, normalizing these experiences, and providing women with real information and options. Sexual health is about more than just contraception—it’s about honoring our desires, our relationships, and our overall happiness.
Exploring Alternatives: New Approaches to Birth Control
Suppose you’re ready to explore life beyond the pill. In that case, you’ll be relieved to know that there are now more non-hormonal contraceptive options than ever before, many of which are gaining traction for their effectiveness and freedom from hormonal side effects. It’s an exciting time in women’s health as science and technology finally offer us more choices that align with our values, wellness goals, and unique needs.
Natural Family Planning (NFP) and Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM) are excellent options for those who want a hands-on, natural approach. These methods involve tracking the menstrual cycle and identifying fertile days using cues like basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and cycle patterns. There’s a growing selection of apps and wearable devices that make cycle tracking more accurate and accessible. While these methods require a bit of learning, they empower women to connect with their bodies profoundly. By knowing their fertility signs, women can avoid pregnancy naturally or plan for it when they’re ready. Plus, FAM offers the bonus of helping women understand and work with their unique hormonal rhythms.
Barrier methods are another classic alternative. Diaphragms and condoms remain effective, hormone-free contraceptives that fit seamlessly into many women’s routines. For those in committed relationships or even those who use contraception intermittently, barrier methods offer a safe and practical option that doesn’t interfere with hormones, libido, or overall health. Diaphragms have evolved from the bulky designs of the past into more comfortable, user-friendly options. Pairing a diaphragm with a reliable spermicide can increase effectiveness while keeping everything hormone-free.
For women who want a long-term solution but want to steer clear of hormones, the copper IUD might be an ideal choice. This tiny, T-shaped device is placed in the uterus and prevents pregnancy by creating an environment that’s inhospitable to sperm. The copper IUD is over 99% effective and can last up to 10 years, providing a set-it-and-forget-it solution. While some women experience heavier periods initially, the absence of hormones often makes it a well-tolerated choice for those sensitive to hormonal birth control’s effects. Women love the peace of mind from a method that works in the background without requiring daily attention or altering their natural hormonal cycles.
Beyond these options, new advancements in contraceptive technology are incredibly promising. For instance, researchers are developing male contraceptives that are hormone-free and reversible. This opens up a new world of shared responsibility in contraception, giving couples the chance to choose options that feel right for both partners. There’s also a lot of excitement around wearable fertility trackers that identify fertile days with impressive accuracy. Devices like these are transforming the way we think about birth control, making it more individualized and user-friendly.
What I find most inspiring about these emerging technologies is how they reflect a shift toward respecting women’s bodies. The focus is increasingly on providing options that align with a woman’s lifestyle and wellness goals, rather than imposing solutions that come with a host of potential side effects. This move toward respectful, body-honoring contraception is a big part of the “birth control revolution” we’re seeing. Women are seeking more than just pregnancy prevention—they’re seeking options that feel good in every sense.
Another encouraging area of research is focused on immuno-contraception, where a woman’s immune response could be temporarily modified to prevent pregnancy without affecting her natural hormones. While this approach is still in development, it represents a whole new frontier that aligns with the goal of minimal interference in women’s natural biological rhythms.
Transitioning from hormonal birth control to these alternatives isn’t just about avoiding side effects—it’s about choosing a method that respects every aspect of our health. Many women find that switching to non-hormonal contraception brings an increased sense of balance, improved mood, and an overall better understanding of their bodies. It’s a step towards taking charge of our reproductive health in ways that support our whole well-being.
In today’s world, women have access to a growing array of contraceptive choices that support their wellness goals, making it easier than ever to find an option that feels both effective and affirming. Whether it’s a tried-and-true method like FAM or an innovative new technology, the birth control landscape is evolving to meet our needs. We deserve contraception that works for us, not against us, and it’s empowering to see that more options are finally available to support that vision.
Making the Choice That’s Right for You
When it comes to birth control, it’s such a personal decision—there’s no single “right” choice that fits everyone. The best option is the one that aligns with your body, your values, and your life. And let’s face it: birth control shouldn’t feel like something we have to endure at the cost of our well-being.
One thing I often ask my clients is, If men were asked to take a pill to keep from getting a woman pregnant that increased their risk of prostate cancer, lowered their libido, impacted performance, and negatively impacted their mental health, would they take it? We know the answer—of course not. So, why are women expected to shoulder these side effects? It’s a question that doesn’t get asked enough.
At the end of the day, I believe in choice—real, informed choice. This means understanding all the options, benefits, and risks, and having the freedom to decide what works best for you. If you’re considering moving away from hormonal birth control, have a conversation with your healthcare provider about alternatives that feel aligned with your wellness goals. You deserve a birth control option that supports every part of you—mind, body, and spirit.
As more options and research come forward, I’m hopeful that we’ll continue to see a shift toward body-positive choices that honor us as whole, empowered women.
Additional Reading:
What are the Benefits and Risks of Taking Birth Control Pills? – Drugs.com
Birth Control Pills – Cleveland Clinic
The Pros and Cons of the Birth Control Pill – VeryWellHealth
About the Author:
Jaelin Stickels, CNM, WHNP, is a deeply passionate and highly skilled Certified Nurse Midwife, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and the owner of Holistic Heritage Homebirth in Houston, Texas. With over a decade of experience, Jaelin has had the privilege of helping several hundred women welcome their babies into the world. In addition to her advanced practice licensure training, she has additional advanced training in twin and breech births, making her one of only a few with these skills in her area. Jaelin approaches every birth with expertise, compassion, and a deep respect for the birthing process. Jaelin is finishing her doctorate and looking forward to being Dr. Jaelin in early 2025.
Jaelin’s journey into midwifery began with a profound love for supporting women through the incredible experience of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Since 2010, she has been dedicated to walking alongside families during these transformative moments, offering guidance, support, and care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She is a big believer in informed consent and ensures clients are given the best evidence-based information to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
Married to her high school sweetheart Ted (aka Chef Ted) since 1984, Jaelin is the proud mother of three grown children and the delighted grandmother of one amazing granddaughter. When she’s not assisting in births, Jaelin finds joy in going to the movies with her husband, quilting, and cherishing time with her family. Known by the other midwives in her practice (Holistic Heritage Homebirth) affectionately as the “Birth Hog,” she brings an unmatched dedication and enthusiasm to her work—no one loves birth quite like she does.