If you haven’t heard, birth control pills have become free to insured Americans as of August 1, 2012. Also, pap smears, mammograms, HIV and other STI screenings and counseling, gestational diabetes screenings during pregnancy, lactation support and equipment, and domestic violence screenings all became available the same day. Soon, all Americans (not just those who are currently insured) will have access to these services. We applaud the increased medical resources now available and the preventative care that is being promoted in our country
In our continued effort to keep our community informed and aware of their health and fertility here at the Yinova Center, we wanted to take this opportunity to discuss one of the ways birth control pills can potentially affect your fertility. While they are one of the most effective forms of contraception in use right now, taking them does not come without risks.
Uterine Lining
A recent study demonstrated that longterm use (more than ten years) of birth control pills could significantly thin the uterine lining, even years after discontinued use. A thick uterine lining is essential for healthy implantation and pregnancy. In Chinese medicine, we consider this effect to be due to blood deficiency from longterm stagnation.
Many people experience significantly lighter periods while on birth control, and it’s quite a relief to them! However, this diminished blood flow to the uterus may, over the long term, affect your ability to conceive in the future. Blood flow to the uterus diminishes naturally as we age, so the added effects of the birth control pill are worth weighing your options in contraception choices.
Solutions Within Eastern Medicine
Acupuncture alone has been shown to increase blood flow to the uterus, creating a thicker uterine lining. In combination with Chinese herbs, which can help build blood and improve circulation, we often see previously diagnosed “thin” linings become thick and able to sustain implantation and pregnancy. If you have a history of longterm birth control pill usage and are struggling to conceive due to a thin uterine lining, Chinese medicine can help.
