I have had diabetes my entire life, and I am very thankful for the fact that modern medical discoveries have helped me live a happy, healthy life despite my disease. I have had to watch what I eat and take medications daily for most of my life, and while i used to feel like I was "missing out" when other children were able to eat sugary candy and I wasn't, I eventually learned that sugar-free candy tastes great. I am always keeping up on the latest diabetes research, and while researching, I have also learned about many other diseases and ailments and how they are treated and controlled. I know others are too busy to browse a bunch of medical websites, like I like to do, so I decided to start a blog that others can visit that contains information on a variety of medical topics all in one place!
Modern Medicine Saves Lives Every Day
Beyond Basic Birth Control: Five Alternative Uses For Oral Contraceptives
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Birth control pills have been used for over 50 years to prevent pregnancy. In recent years, oral contraceptives have been prescribed for many other purposes. The Guttmacher Institute revealed that 1.5 million women who use "the pill" use it for non-contraceptive reasons. Over half of all women who take birth control pills take them for pregnancy prevention plus additional reasons. Read on to discover five unique uses for oral contraceptives.
One: Relieving Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as PCOS, is an illness that negatively impacts women in many different ways. Women with PCOS have small cysts on their ovaries, and these can be very painful. This illness also leads to infertility. Birth control pills are used to treat the following symptoms:
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irregular periods
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oily skin and acne
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excess hair growth
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obesity
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for polycystic ovary syndrome. Oral contraceptives alleviate the symptoms listed above by regulating hormones in the body.
Two: Clearing Up An Unflattering Complexion
Most women experience a pimple or two, and these are usually treated with over-the-counter products. Moderate to severe acne can be much more difficult to treat. In some cases, prescription topical ointments do not do the trick. When this happens, oral contraceptives are prescribed to help balance hormones in the body. It may take months to see results, but "the pill" can prevent acne formation.
Three: Minimizing The Effects Of Menstrual Migraines
WebMD states that 60% of women who suffer from migraines correlate them to when their periods occur. Estrogen levels drop during a woman's period, and this can cause migraines. Birth control pills can regulate estrogen levels to reduce the severity and frequency of these migraines.
Four: Making Periods Lighter And Shorter
Some women suffer from heavy, long periods that cause them great discomfort and inconvenience. Long periods are not always related to a medical condition, but many women seek help for this issue. Oral contraceptives are known for reducing the length of periods and the amount of menstrual blood that occurs. This is because birth control pills thin the lining of the uterus, which lightens bleeding.
Five: Treating The Pain Of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is another disorder that causes pain, discomfort, and medical complications for women. This illness causes uterine tissue to grow outside of the uterus, and this affects the ovaries and Fallopian tubes. Women with endometriosis may take a continuous cycle of birth control without any breaks. This can reduce or eliminate periods, and this typically reduces pelvic pain and cramping.
For further assistance, contact local professionals, such as those from Mile High OB GYN.
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