Birth control is any method of contraception that prevents pregnancy, and to its most basic components, contains estrogen and progestin to prevent a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH) that causes ovulation, or the release of an egg. There are several different types of birth control methods, such as sterilization, long-acting reversible contraceptives, short-acting hormonal methods, barrier methods, and natural rhythm methods. 

Sterilization is the most effective method of preventing pregnancy, while natural rhythm methods are the least effective. Long-acting reversible contraceptives include the intrauterine device (IUD) or hormonal implants often placed in the upper arm. Such methods are typically seen as more convenient as they last for 3 to 10 years, so once inserted, they are not to be thought about until years later when it is time for its removal. Short-acting hormonal methods include the daily birth control pills, including the combination pill which consists of estrogen and progestin and the mini pill, which contains only progestin, or the patch. Short-acting hormonal methods are less effective than the long-acting methods, and require more effort in remembering when to take them. The patch, however, can be replaced every week. Next, there are barrier methods. These include condoms, sponges, diaphragms, and the cervical cap. Barrier methods don't regulate one’s menstrual cycle as there is no introduction of hormones to the system. Finally, natural rhythm methods also don’t use hormonal contraception, and include timing oneself to check when they are most fertile. There are phone apps that calculate these days, as well as ovulation home test kits and fertility monitors sold at pharmacies. This method is the least effective contraceptive due to its high uncertainty. 

It is important to discuss with a physician about which method is the most appropriate. What works for one person, may not always work for another person. Additionally, one must take into account family history, such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer when making this decision. For instance, a smoker who is 35 years or older should not be using hormonal birth control as it may increase their risk for developing blood clots and hypertension, and tobacco use may also increase the chances for a heart attack. 

A Danish study published in 2017 by the New England Journal of Medicine found that birth control pills and the IUD may slightly increase one’s chances of developing breast cancer. The results of this study may be misleading, however, as 1 in 7,690 women who used hormonal birth control would develop breast cancer. In women under 35, the risk was reduced to 1 for every 50,000 women using hormonal contraceptives. Other studies have found that birth control pills may reduce one’s chances of developing uterine and ovarian cancer. For instance, a study in 1968 that observed more than 46,000 women for 44 years showed that although there were increases in breast and cervical cancer rates, there was also a reduction in the rates of ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancer. There are also important factors that should be considered when evaluating the risks of developing cancer, such as weight, exercise, and use of alcohol or tobacco. It is also not recommended for someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer to use hormonal birth control. 

It’s been said that the benefits of birth control outweigh the minute risk of developing cancer. For example, controlling mood swings, heavy periods, acne, endometriosis, and menstrual cramps, as well as reducing the risks of anemia and developing ovarian cysts. The common fear that birth control causes weight gain is a myth. The weight gain one may experience would be due to water retention, not an increase in fat, and should diminish after 3 months. Depression is the primary reason women stop taking birth control pills, so it is also important to fully navigate all brands and their known side effects, and to discuss these with your doctor before making a decision.

References:

“Birth Control Methods.” Office on Women's Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, 14 Feb. 2019, www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/birth-control-methods.

“Does Hormonal Birth Control Increase Breast Cancer Risk?” Breastcancer.org, Breastcancer.org, 13 Dec. 2017, www.breastcancer.org/research-news/do-hormonal-contraceptives-increase-risk.

Holland, Kimberly. “What Birth Control Pill Brands Are Out There?” Healthline, Healthline Media, 17 Sept. 2018, www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/birth-control-pill-brands#causes.

McDermott, Annette. “Birth Control and Depression: Understanding the Link.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 20 Aug. 2018, www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/birth-control-and-depression#:~:text=Depression%20and%20mood%20swings%20are,stop%20using%20birth%20control%20pills.