Oral contraceptions, a misconception

Oral contraceptive’s were introduced in the 60’s and 70’s creating a new wave of sexual freedom.  The pill as it is called is still the number one way of keeping fertility in check.    A woman has three primary hormones for regulating fertility and supporting conception, the Luteinizing hormone, estrogen and progesterone.  These three hormones facilitate ovulation.  The pill affects the hormonal balance by suppressing ovulation, so no egg is available for fertilization.

Good News! New research shows that oral contraceptives won’t harm fertility.  In fact it may boost fertility.  A study published in the journal Human Reproduction: Prolonged use of oral contraception before a planned pregnancy is associated with a decreased risk of delayed conception.  The study was completed over a 21-month period in which South England couples were given self-completion questionnaires.  74% conceived in about 6 months, 14% in 6-12 and 12% after a year.  Meaning that prolonged use of oral contraceptives was indeed associated with improved fertility.

The reason: Oral contraceptives may help preserve the follicle – the sac in the ovary that sustains the egg, or reduce endometrial dysfunction, which can prevent the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

So if there are any doubts that the pill will make you infertile, rest assured, chances are it’s aiding your fertility.   So grab your ovulation strip and find out if you’re fertile.