47: Birth Control Pills: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Confessions of a Male Gynecologist

Birth control pills have been around for decades, and most of that time, they were viewed as a net positive. Nowadays, you can’t say “birth control pills” without being bombarded with their evils.

The truth is, they’re not evil. If you need the pill for birth control, they're empowering and allow you to be in control of your reproductive health.

But physicians prescribe birth control pills for every problem under the sun, and I believe we are to blame for the stigma around the pill. The pill has become the band-aid solution for lazy medicine, whether it’s acne, painful cramps, heavy periods, or many more symptoms. Add to that the lack of education these doctors give to their patients, and you find that many women choosing the pill did not do so from an informed place.

Today I’m doing a deep dive into everything you need to know about birth control pills. I’m discussing the different types of pills, how they work, benefits and risks, how to choose the right one for you, and more. The most important thing I want you to take from this episode is that you are your best healthcare advocate. Do your own research and make the choice you feel is best for you. Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

What’s in birth control pills?

Three different types of birth control pills

Possible benefits of combination pills

The problem with using birth control pills as a band-aid solution

Potential benefits and risks of progesterone-only pills

How birth control pills work and how to use them

Side effects, risks, and considerations of taking birth control pills

Myths and frequently asked questions about the pill

The good, the bad, the ugly, and the uglier

Why it’s crucial to address underlying issues

Being your best healthcare advocate

Resources

Dr. Tassone's Practice https://www.drshawntassone.com/

The Hormone Balance Bible https://tassonemd.com/hormone-balance-bible/

Hormone Archetype Quiz https://tassonemd.lpages.co/hormonearchetypequiz/

Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.