Are women being let down by outdated contraceptives?
There’s been a seismic shift in conversations about women’s health in the last couple of years, with discussions around issues such as the menopause and questions finally being asked about female contraception and its impact on health and wellbeing.
Following the success of her programme Sex, Myths and The Menopause, presenter Davina McCall investigated the current backlash against modern contraception in a recent Channel 4 documentary, The Pill Revolution. The programme explored the myths and misconceptions about modern contraception and asked whether it really provides women with the care they need and if they are truly listened to.
Created 60 years ago, birth control was a game-changer for women, allowing them to work, earn their own money, and be in control of their own bodies. While other contraceptive methods have been developed, the Pill remains by far the most popular form of contraception in England, with an estimated 3.1 million women taking it.
However, research says that 85 per cent of women admit hormonal contraception has led them to experience almost daily side-effects, including mood swings, anxiety, mental or emotional exhaustion and a loss of sex drive. According to a survey by Stowe Family Law, 87 per cent of women blame hormonal contraception for poor physical and mental health, and 85 per cent claim that the side-effects have been detrimental to their marriage or relationship. Tellingly, 33 per cent of women stop taking the Pill altogether due to its side-effects.
This research, however important, is still largely ignored by science. As Davina pointed out, we can clone a sheep but are still using the same pill as we did 30 years ago. She said: ‘The research and access just are not there — is this because it only affects women?’
Systematic cuts to sexual health care and the closing of clinics in the last 10 years has led to major obstacles when it comes to accessing contraception advice, with many waiting lists topping one year or more. Recent increased demand for the coil, for example (which is also often recommended to ease symptoms of the menopause), means many women fall through the cracks, with some falling pregnant while waiting.
With GPs now only having 10-minute appointment slots, women are often not able to discuss every single option, including possible side-effects, before making a decision.
New guidance also takes time to filter through, and so not all health care professionals are up to date. Women are doing their own research and they are often fed misinformation from social media.
So, what is the best contraceptive method? Medical doctor and female health advocate, Dr Frankie Jackson-Spence says: ‘There are lots of myths (and strong opinions) floating around regarding contraception. Everybody is different and it’s important you have all the facts so you can make an informed choice that is personal to you. When it comes to contraception, what works for one person might not be the best option for someone else.’
Dr Jackson-Spence goes on to say that the Pill, if taken perfectly, is over 99 per cent effective. It’s quick and easy to take, it’s free, can regulate heavy and painful periods and make them lighter, doesn’t interfere with sex, and can help manage other conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS and menopause. And, as The Pill Revolution documentary also pointed out, it also allows women to be in control of their lives — to work, to plan, to empower.
When it comes to women’s health, there is hope and the Women’s Health Strategy was set up in 2022, with £25m of funding pledged to set up women’s health hubs, where contraception, advice and treatments will be available.
In the meantime, the onus is on us to find our own answers. If your method of contraception isn’t working, get in contact with your GP or other health professional.
• Dr Frankie Jackson-Spence is working with Femfresh