Most of us know someone who was put on the pill as a teenager. Maybe for contraception. Maybe for acne. Maybe for painful periods. Maybe because our doctor simply said, “This will help.”

But how many of us were actually told what it was doing inside our bodies?

This week, we’re talking all things the pill — what it actually is, how it prevents pregnancy, why the bleed you have while taking it isn’t technically a period, and why it’s become the go-to solution for so many women’s health symptoms.

We also get into the conversations that don’t always happen when the prescription is handed over: mood, libido, side effects, symptoms returning after coming off, the responsibility women carry for contraception, and even the fascinating (and still very mixed) research around the pill, attraction and relationships.

Annie also shares her own experience of being on the pill, how it affected the way she felt physically and emotionally, and why eventually deciding to come off felt like taking back some ownership of her body.

In this episode, we cover:

• What “the pill” actually is and how it works.
• Why your bleed on the pill isn’t the same as a menstrual period.
• Why the pill can improve symptoms without necessarily addressing why they started.
• What can happen when you come off the pill.
• The side effects and considerations women deserve to know about.
• Why contraception still falls so heavily on women.
• The research around the pill, attraction and identity.
• What informed choice around contraception can actually look like.

This episode isn’t about telling you to take the pill or throw your packet in the bin.

For some women, the pill is life-changing. For others, it simply isn’t the right fit.

We just think women deserve the full conversation before making a decision about their bodies.

Your body. Your choice. Just make it an informed one.

Connect with us on instagram @bloodngutspodcast