In the past, the birth control pill was a popular choice for women looking to prevent pregnancy. However, over the years, there has been a decrease in the number of women taking the pill. This decrease is likely due to a number of factors, including the rise in alternative forms of contraception.
Some women believe that the birth control pill is responsible for causing various health problems. For example, the pill can increase the risk of blood clots. Additionally, the pill can also increase the risk of breast cancer. As a result, many women are now choosing other forms of contraception, such as condoms or the IUD.
Despite the concerns some women have about the birth control pill, it remains one of the most popular forms of contraception. Many women feel that the benefits of using the pill outweigh the risks.
Fewer and fewer young women are taking birth control pills. What are the reasons? And are there actually enough alternatives today?
Fewer and fewer girls and women are taking birth control pills
Contents
Fewer and fewer girls and women are taking birth control pills. This is partly because of the increasing popularity of other forms of contraception, such as condoms and birth control implants. But it’s also because of the side effects of some birth control pills. For example, some birth control pills can be very expensive, and they can also cause side effects such as weight gain and acne.
A recent study by Techniker Krankenkasse shows that fewer and fewer girls and young women are taking the pill. According to this, in 2020 only a third of 14 to 19-year-old women had the contraceptive pill prescribed to them. In 2015, this figure was still 44 percent. According to the information, the decline is particularly strong among 18 and 19-year-olds – the age group that uses the pill most frequently. In 2015, 67 percent of 18-year-olds received at least one pill prescription, in 2020 it was only 50 percent. The number of 19-year-olds fell from 72 to 53 percent. According to Deutsches Ärzteblatt, the proportion of prescriptions for all girls and women with statutory health insurance fell from 46 to 31 percent between 2009 and 2019.
60 years hormones
The first hormone was discovered in 1928. It was called “growth hormone” and was found to stimulate growth in animals. This hormone was named after the Danish scientist, J.C. Viborg. In the 1950s, scientists found a second hormone called “estrogen”. This hormone was found to play a role in female reproductive health. In the 1960s, scientists found a third hormone called “testosterone”. This hormone was found to play a role in male reproductive health. In the 1970s, scientists found a fourth hormone called “progestin”. This hormone was found to play a role in female reproductive health and contraception. In the 1980s, scientists found a fifth hormone called “androgen”. This hormone was found to play a role in male reproductive health. In the 1990s, scientists found a sixth hormone called “human growth hormone”. This hormone was found to play a role in overall health and well-being.
The product has changed significantly since the first birth control pill came onto the market in 1961 in Germany and in 1965 in East Germany. Today’s pills differ significantly in their safety and the dosage of the hormones, but their active principle has remained the same. Most preparations work by combining two man-made hormones that are similar to the body’s own hormones, estrogen and progestin. They ensure that no egg matures in the body and the cervix is closed with mucus so that no sperm can penetrate and the uterine lining does not build up again.
Reasons for deciding against the pill
There are many reasons why people might choose not to take the pill. Some people may not want to use hormones, or they may be concerned about the side effects of the pill. Others may not be able to take the pill because of a medical condition. There are also a number of reasons why people might not be able to take the pill for various periods of time. Some people may not be able to take the pill for months at a time, while others may only be able to take the pill for a few days a month. Some people might not be able to take the pill at all.
It is well known that the pill has a number of possible side effects. These include headaches and migraines, water retention, bleeding between periods, depressive moods, loss of libido and weight gain.
Many women knowingly accept some side effects because they expect clearer skin from the pill, for example. Many women only actively notice side effects when they no longer have them, including effects on both the body and the psyche. This often happens because many people lack knowledge about their own body, the cycle and the effects of hormones. But that is about to change.
While ten years ago almost all girls and women were prescribed the pill directly, today gynecologists often recommend other methods. According to Techniker Krankenkasse, the prescriptions have been falling continuously for several years. Attention to the topic is higher than it was a few years ago. Many women no longer want to be exposed to the constant, high supply of hormones and artificially intervene in the natural rhythm of their bodies. Some find it simply unfair to use hormonal birth control just because men don’t have it yet.
A new consciousness
There is a new consciousness emerging, one that is more inclusive and interconnected. This consciousness is one that is conscious of the interconnectedness of all beings and the need for us to work together to create a sustainable future.
This consciousness is one that is aware of the importance of environmentalism and sustainability. It is also one that is committed to creating a more equitable society that is based on principles of justice and equality. This consciousness is one that is willing to challenge the status quo and work together to create a better future.
This is a consciousness that is willing to consider new ideas and ways of doing things. It is a consciousness that is open to change and is looking for ways to connect with others to create a more sustainable future.
This consciousness is one that is united in its determination to create a better future for all. It is a consciousness that is committed to working together to create a more just and equitable society.
The safety debate is by no means a new one, but the current decline could also be related to the reporting of so-called newer generation pills that carry a higher risk of embolism and thrombosis. According to the AOK Federal Association, more than half of women today get this type of pill.
In general, the attitude towards hormonal contraceptive methods is becoming more critical and awareness of the body and psyche is increasing. A more conscious, ecological life is important to many young people today. New methods and technologies that are designed to help with contraception by determining ovulation, which did not exist a few years ago, are also contributing to fewer women taking the pill. The decision against the pill for young women is probably less justified in terms of the costs: the contraceptive pill is covered by health insurance for women with statutory health insurance up to the age of 22. After that, it costs about five to 15 euros per month.
Once the pill is off, a lot changes
When the pill is taken, it regulates a woman’s hormones, enabling her to have a healthy pregnancy and avoid certain health conditions. After the pill is taken off, the woman may experience a range of different changes. Some changes may be positive, such as increased libido and a decrease in anxiety. Other changes, such as an increase in weight, may be negative. It is important for a woman to discuss her contraception options with her healthcare provider to see what changes, if any, she may experience after taking the pill off.
Many observe some changes, both physical and psychological, after stopping the pill. Many of the changes that women initially perceive as negative will correct themselves over time as the body’s hormonal balance returns to normal. These include hair loss, skin blemishes, weight fluctuations and the menstrual cycle – this initially becomes much more irregular for many, but then levels off and finally follows the natural – but still individual – rhythm. However, many women also have more severe menstrual pain and PMS after stopping.
Possible positive changes:
- You feel your body more again, perceive different feelings and cycle phases more strongly.
- Your sense of pleasure increases.
- Your mood and emotions can change. Some women find the pill to be a veil that covers their feelings and always makes them feel the same. Others report depression-like phases. These disappear after a while after weaning, which makes many feel more liberated and much more balanced.
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What are the alternatives?
The alternatives to incarceration are many and varied, but typically fall into one of three categories: community-based programs, supervision, or rehabilitation. Community-based programs can include probation, parole, and work programs, while supervision typically refers to placement in a monitored setting, such as a home detention or curfew program. Rehabilitation typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy and other treatments aimed at reducing criminal behavior.
Hormonal contraceptive methods:
- Hormone spiral: Is inserted into the uterus by the gynecologist, very high protection, works for three to five years, between 300 and 400 euros
- Contraceptive ring: prescription, flexible plastic ring that is inserted into the vagina (wear 21 days, take a break for seven days), about 50 euros for three months
- Hormone sticks: prescription, plastic sticks that the gynecologist inserts directly under the skin on the upper arm, lasts up to three years, from 300 euros
- Three-month injection: is injected by the gynecologist, approx. 30 euros per injection
- Hormone patch: is stuck to the skin and releases hormones into the bloodstream that prevent pregnancy, three-month pack around 40 euros
Hormonal contraceptives require a prescription and can have similar side effects to the pill. However, many women no longer want to supply their bodies with hormones. They therefore resort to contraceptives that are not based on hormones.
Hormone-free contraceptive methods:
- Condom: The classic, about 60 cents each, also protects against sexually transmitted diseases
- “Femidom”: Similar to a traditional condom, but placed with one end inside the vagina and the other on the vulval lips. Takes some practice, similar cost to a condom
- Diaphragm: Flexible spring ring made of silicone, which is precisely adjusted by the gynecologist and inserted into the vagina before sex. 30 to 50 euros, a little more with sperm-killing cream. To ensure safety, the diaphragm must remain in the vagina for a minimum of 8 hours and a maximum of 24 hours after intercourse.
- Copper spiral, copper chain, copper ball: requires a prescription, is inserted into the uterus by the gynecologist and releases small, constant amounts of copper there, which kills the sperm or even a fertilized egg cell. The T-shaped copper IUD unfolds after being inserted into the uterus, while the copper chain and copper ball are sutured into the uterine lining. They work for three to seven years, depending on the model 120 to 500 euros.
- Calendar method: Period is documented in a cycle diary, the fertile days are calculated, free of charge, but uncertain – not recommended as the sole contraceptive method
- Contraception computer: Measures the estrogen and LH concentration in the morning urine and thus determines the fertile days. Easy to use, but additional contraception is required on the fertile days. Some models are very unsafe. 125 to 600 euros
- Temperature measurement: The basal body temperature is measured in the morning before getting up. 2 to 20 euros for a thermometer (necessarily with two digits after the decimal point), it may be more expensive with the associated app. But beware: Many apps use an algorithm that is based on average values, which is why no reliable, individual information can be given.
- Billings method: On the one hand, the consistency of the cervical mucus is checked with the fingers and, on the other hand, the feeling in the vagina (moist, dry, itchy, etc.) is evaluated. This is how the cycle phase can be determined. Very unsafe as the only contraceptive method.
- Cervix method: Once a day, the position (high, medium or low) and firmness (hard or soft) of the cervix is palpated. This method should always be used in conjunction with the temperature method to ensure protection.
- Symptothermal method: combination of temperature and Billings method or temperature and cervix method. When used correctly, it is very reliable. Can also be used specifically for the desire to have children, which is why it is also referred to as “natural family planning”. Cycle apps help document symptoms and keep track of everything. Additional contraception must be used during the fertile days.
- Sterilization: Both fallopian tubes are closed or severed. Depending on the method between 600 and 1000 euros. Can only be reversed by microsurgical operation; However, the chances of refertilization are low and decrease with age. In men (vasectomy), the vas deferens in the scrotum are severed and the loose ends are then closed. As a result, sperm can no longer get into the semen, 450 and 500 euros
So which contraceptive method is right for me?
When it comes to contraceptives, there are many different methods to choose from. Some people prefer the pill, others may prefer condoms, and still others may want to use an IUD (intrauterine device). The most important thing to keep in mind is what is best for your individual needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a contraceptive method:
-Are you sexually active? If so, which types of sexual activities are you interested in? The pill is generally a good choice for people who are sexually active regularly. It is a reversible method, so if you decide you no longer want to have children, you can easily go back to using it.
-Are you comfortable using a contraceptive method? Some methods, such as the pill, require you to take a medication every day. If you are not comfortable taking medication, you may want to consider another method, such as condoms or an IUD.
-Do you have any health conditions? Some methods, such as the pill, can increase the risk of some health conditions, such as blood clots. If you have any health conditions, you should talk to your doctor about which method is best for you.
-How much money are you willing to spend? Some methods, such as the pill, are more expensive than others. If you are not sure if a method is right for you, you may want to consider a less expensive option first.
-How long
Which contraceptive we should use is completely individual and depends on factors such as well-being, costs and the regularity of the menstrual cycle. In our society, contraception is unfortunately still predominantly a woman’s business. There are numerous alternatives to the pill, but many are either also hormonal, less safe or significantly more expensive. It is currently not foreseeable that the pill could be completely replaced and replaced by other methods. In particular, research into the male pill and other innovative male contraceptive methods is still not advanced enough and is not expected to be anytime soon. Many manufacturers focus on other areas of research because they see no market for the male pill.
No matter which method we choose: It is important that we feel comfortable with it ourselves, do not just do it for the sake of our partners and make an informed decision out of a healthy body awareness.
More topics:
”How did the birth control pill affect women’s rights?”
The pill made it finally possible for American women to separate sexuality and childbearing. Masters and Johnson, a pioneering research team in the field of human sexuality, challenged entrenched beliefs that women did not enjoy sex and were merely passive partners.
The birth control pill has had a profound impact on women’s rights. Prior to the pill, women had to rely on male partners to provide contraception, which often led to women being forced into marriages they didn’t want or being unable to have abortions. The pill has enabled women to have control over their own bodies and sexuality, and has helped to increase women’s equality.
How did birth control give women more opportunities?
Gaining legal access to birth control before age 21 in the 1960s and 1970s increased women’s college attendance and completion and their workforce participation.” Birth control is also credited with a 30% proportional increase in women entering skilled careers.
Birth control has given women more opportunities than ever before. The use of contraception has allowed women to have careers, have children when they are ready and not have to worry about getting pregnant. Birth control has allowed women to have more control over their own bodies and their lives.
Why do so many women use birth control?
The study—based on U.S government data from the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG)—revealed that after pregnancy prevention (86%), the most common reasons women use the pill include reducing cramps or menstrual pain (31%); menstrual regulation, which for some women may help prevent migraines and other painful “ …
There are a number of reasons why so many women use birth control. Some women use birth control to avoid becoming pregnant, some use it to control the timing of their pregnancies, and some use it as a way to avoid health problems that can come with pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia. Some women use birth control to prevent abortions, while others use it to increase the chances of having a healthy pregnancy. Birth control is also a way to have more control over one’s own body and reproductive health.
How many women have taken the pill?
According to the World Health Organization, more than 100 million women around the world use the combined oral contraceptive – better known as the pill.
The Pill is a medication that was first developed in the 1950s to prevent pregnancy. As of 2014, over one hundred million women have taken the pill. Many women choose to take the Pill because it is a reversible contraception method. The Pill works by preventing ovulation, which means that the egg cannot attach to the uterine wall and become fertilized. The Pill also thickens the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for a sperm to reach the egg. Overall, the Pill is a very effective contraception method.
Why did people oppose birth control?
Early opposition to contraception was often a reaction to the threat of heretic groups, such as the Gnostics and Manichees. And before the 20th century, theologians assumed that those who practiced contraception were “fornicators” and “prostitutes.” The purpose of marriage, they believed, was producing offspring.
There are many reasons why people may oppose birth control, including religious beliefs or moral objections, concern over the side effects of birth control, or a belief that contraception is immoral. Some people also oppose birth control because they believe that it is irresponsible to prevent pregnancies, or because they believe that having more children is a valuable part of a family’s heritage.
