You, Me, and the Pill: Let’s Talk Honestly
The first time a doctor offered me the pill was shortly after my periods began. The reason? To help “regulate” my cycle. Thankfully, my mum wasn’t keen and said no on my behalf. Later, another doctor took a more thorough approach and discovered I was low in vitamin D. Once we addressed that deficiency, my periods became more regular — no pill required.
I’m not the only one who’s been recommended the pill. The combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for women worldwide. It’s often handed out for everything from birth control to acne, period pain, and irregular cycles. But what does it actually do to the body? And what might we be missing when we use it as a first-line solution?
As a naturopath, I’ve worked with many women who’ve been on the pill, come off it, or are wondering whether it’s the right choice for them. I’m not anti-pill — but I am very pro-informed choice. So let’s unpack it together.
What is the combined oral contraceptive pill?
The COCP contains synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones override your body’s natural cycle and stop ovulation from occurring. No ovulation = no egg = no pregnancy.
Many women are surprised to learn that the bleed you get on the pill isn’t a true period. It’s a withdrawal bleed — triggered by the drop in synthetic hormones when you take the sugar pills at the end of the packet. Your body isn’t cycling naturally while you’re on the pill.
Common reasons the pill is prescribed
Aside from contraception, doctors often prescribe the pill to:
Manage heavy or painful periods
Control acne or excess hair growth
Regulate a “wonky” cycle
Reduce PMS symptoms
While the pill may alleviate these symptoms, it doesn’t resolve the underlying causes — which often include hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, or inflammation.
Naturopathic concerns with long-term pill use
Here are a few things I believe are worth considering when it comes to the pill and your long-term health:
1. Nutrient depletion
The pill is known to deplete key nutrients, including:
B vitamins (especially B6, B12, and folate)
Magnesium
Zinc
Vitamins C and E
These nutrients are vital for mood, energy, immune function, liver detoxification, and hormone metabolism. I often see women on the pill feeling flat, anxious, or run-down — and nutritional support can make a real difference.
2. Gut health disruption
The pill can negatively affect the gut microbiome. Studies have linked COCP use with increased risk of gut issues like candida overgrowth, IBS symptoms, and leaky gut. Considering how crucial gut health is for mood, hormones, immunity, and skin — this isn’t a small thing!
3. Liver load
The liver is responsible for metabolising the synthetic hormones in the pill. Over time, this adds to the body’s detox burden — especially if there’s already stress, toxin exposure, or sluggish liver function. Some women notice skin issues, poor alcohol tolerance, or digestive complaints that improve once their liver is supported.
4. Impact on mood
There’s growing evidence linking pill use with mood disturbances, particularly in teens. Some women report increased anxiety or depression while on the pill — possibly due to how synthetic hormones influence neurotransmitters like serotonin.
5. Masking of hormonal conditions
When the pill is used to “regulate” a cycle, it can delay diagnosis of underlying issues like PCOS, endometriosis, or hypothalamic amenorrhea. These conditions need tailored support — not just hormonal suppression.
6. Cancer risk
The pill may reduce the risk of some cancers (such as endometrial and ovarian cancer), but may increase the risk of breast and cervical cancers. This is an important and nuanced area that deserves informed discussion.
Common myths
There are a few persistent myths around the pill, such as:
That it causes long-term infertility (it doesn’t — though it may take time for your natural cycle to return)
That it always causes weight gain (for some, it does; for others, it doesn’t)
“Post-birth control syndrome” isn’t officially recognised, but many symptoms women experience after stopping the pill reflect pre-existing imbalances. For example, if acne was present before the pill (and suppressed while taking it), it’s likely to return once you come off.
So, what’s the alternative?
There are non-hormonal contraceptive options — like the copper IUD, condoms, or fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) when used correctly. More than that, I believe in helping women understand their cycle.
Ovulation isn’t just about baby-making. It’s a vital sign — a marker of overall health. There’s so much goodness in knowing your body and working with it, not just suppressing it.
Whether you’re on the pill or coming off it…
That’s totally okay. Every woman’s journey is unique. But let’s make sure your body is supported along the way. That might include:
Running pathology tests and addressing deficiencies
Supporting liver detox pathways
Rebalancing the gut microbiome
Helping regulate your natural cycle post-pill
Addressing any hormonal, mood, or skin symptoms that arise
Ready to work with your body, not against it?
If you’re curious about supporting your hormones naturally, preparing to come off the pill, or managing symptoms without jumping straight onto medication — I’d love to help.
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
AUTHOR: TALITHA
I specialise in gut health (IBS, IBD, microbiome testing), women's health (preconception, fertility, hormone balance), and mental health (depression, stress, anxiety). I am a degree- qualified naturopath who LOVES helping people transform their health stories!!
