Introduction
For many individuals, menstrual cycles can be a major inconvenience and source of discomfort. Fortunately, there are several types of birth control available that can stop periods altogether. In this article, we will explore the different types of birth control that can stop periods and how they work.
Types of Birth Control That Can Stop Periods
There are two main categories of birth control that can stop periods: hormonal and non-hormonal options. Each method works differently, and the right choice will depend on an individual’s health history and preferences.
Hormonal Options
1. Combination Birth Control Pills
Combination birth control pills contain both estrogen and progesterone to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. When taken consistently, these pills can stop periods altogether or make them shorter and lighter.
2. Progestin-Only Pills
Progestin-only pills, also known as mini-pills, only contain progestin and work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Some individuals may experience irregular bleeding or no bleeding at all while taking progestin-only pills.
3. Depo-Provera Injection
The Depo-Provera injection is a shot of progestin that is administered every 12 weeks. Similar to the progestin-only pill, it works by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy. For some individuals, periods may stop altogether, while others may experience irregular bleeding.
4. NuvaRing
The NuvaRing is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases both estrogen and progestin. It works similarly to combination birth control pills to thicken cervical mucus and prevent ovulation. Some individuals may experience shorter and lighter periods, or no periods at all while using the ring.
5. Implant
The implant is a small, rod-shaped device that is inserted under the skin in the upper arm and releases progestin. It works similarly to the Depo-Provera injection to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus. For some individuals, periods may stop altogether, while others may experience irregular bleeding.
6. Hormonal IUD
Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena and Skyla, are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus and release progestin. They work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy. For some individuals, periods may stop altogether, while others may experience shorter and lighter periods.
Non-Hormonal Options
1. Copper IUD
The copper IUD, also known as Paragard, is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus and does not contain hormones. It works by releasing copper to prevent sperm from fertilizing the egg. Some individuals may experience heavier and more painful periods, while others may not see a change in their menstrual cycle.
Pros and Cons of Each Method
Each birth control method that can stop periods has its own set of pros and cons. The right choice will depend on an individual’s health history and preferences.
Combination Birth Control Pills
Pros: Can make periods lighter and shorter, reduces the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, can be used to treat acne and other hormonal conditions.
Cons: Must be taken at the same time every day, may cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and breast tenderness, may increase the risk of blood clots in individuals who smoke.
Progestin-Only Pills
Pros: Can be used by individuals who cannot take estrogen, can be taken while breastfeeding, may improve menstrual symptoms such as cramps and heavy bleeding.
Cons: Must be taken at the same time every day, may cause irregular bleeding, may not be as effective as combination birth control pills.
Depo-Provera Injection
Pros: Only needs to be administered every 12 weeks, may improve menstrual symptoms such as cramps and heavy bleeding, can be used by individuals who cannot take estrogen.
Cons: May cause irregular bleeding or no bleeding at all, may cause bone density loss with long-term use.
NuvaRing
Pros: Only needs to be inserted once a month, may improve menstrual symptoms such as cramps and heavy bleeding, can be used to treat acne and other hormonal conditions.
Cons: May cause side effects such as vaginal irritation or discharge, may cause rare but serious side effects such as blood clots.
Implant
Pros: Only needs to be inserted once every few years, may improve menstrual symptoms such as cramps and heavy bleeding, may be more discreet than other forms of birth control.
Cons: May cause irregular bleeding or no bleeding at all, may cause side effects such as headaches and breast tenderness.
Hormonal IUD
Pros: Only needs to be inserted once every few years, may improve menstrual symptoms such as cramps and heavy bleeding, reduces the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.
Cons: May cause irregular bleeding or no bleeding at all, may cause side effects such as headaches and breast tenderness.
Copper IUD
Pros: Can be used long-term, is a non-hormonal option, can be used as emergency contraception.
Cons: May cause heavier and more painful periods, may cause rare but serious side effects such as perforation or expulsion of the device.
Personal Experiences with Birth Control That Stops Periods
To get a better understanding of the different types of birth control that can stop periods, we interviewed individuals who have tried these methods.
“I’ve been using the Depo-Provera injection for six months now, and I haven’t had a period since my first shot. It’s been great not having to deal with the hassle and discomfort of menstruation every month.”
“I had a copper IUD for a few years, and while it didn’t stop my periods, it made them really heavy and painful. I switched to a hormonal IUD, and now my periods are much lighter.”
Myths and Facts about Birth Control That Stops Periods
There are several common myths about birth control that stops periods. Let’s debunk some of them:
Myth: Birth control that stops periods causes weight gain.
Fact: While some individuals may experience weight gain while taking hormonal birth control, there is no evidence to suggest that birth control that stops periods causes more weight gain than other types of birth control.
Myth: Birth control that stops periods decreases libido.
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that birth control that stops periods decreases libido. In fact, some individuals may experience an increase in libido due to the absence of menstrual symptoms.
Myth: Birth control that stops periods makes you infertile.
Fact: Birth control that stops periods does not make you infertile. Once you stop taking the medication or having the device removed, your fertility should return to normal.
Q&A about Birth Control That Stops Periods
1. How long can periods be delayed?
The length of time periods can be delayed varies depending on the type of birth control. In some cases, periods may stop altogether, while in others, there may be irregular bleeding. It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine what to expect.
2. How safe is the method of contraception?
Each method of contraception has its own set of risks and benefits. It’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider to determine what is the safest option for you.
3. How to switch to this type of medication?
If you are interested in switching to a birth control method that can stop periods, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine what method is right for you and provide guidance on how to safely switch from your current form of birth control.
Conclusion
There are several types of birth control available that can stop periods altogether or make them lighter and shorter. Each method has its own set of pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on an individual’s health history and preferences. It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine what method is right for you.