As a female, we have so many responsibilities.

I believe it is our right, and we must take control of our own bodies.

At the center of it all is our reproductive health.

Why Taking Control Of My Reproductive Health Makes Me A Happier Woman

Daria Shevtsova

It is what I believe is our right, that we are able to choose what fits us.

And there are a ton of options.

Whether we solely use condoms, the ring, the shot, the pill, or another method.

That is all up to us.

My experience with the pill has been overall very positive.

I believe it to be a simple method, that is quite effective when used accurately.

My experience going on birth control was pretty simple.

I was put on a low dose for the pill as a first-time pill user.

This meant the pill had lower estrogen levels and generally is thought to have fewer side effects.

From then on, my journey with the pill has been fairly smooth sailing.

There are a lot of opinions that you gain weight on the pill.

And I did, probably about ten pounds.

To me, that is something I can deal with.

While it isnt proven medically, most women know their bodies.

My weight gain was pretty gradual after getting on the pill.

During one of my breaks from taking the pill, I did drop some weight.

This is but a small price to pay for constant reassurance that I am not going to get pregnant.

Im also aware that the pill is not 100 percent accurate.

Some people struggle to remember to take the medication daily or take it at different times.

Doing this can definitely increase your chances of pregnancy!

If you are someone who wont remember daily, then this probably is not the best method for you.

And when you think about how important it is, Im going to remember this.

One problem I have come across is going through different manufacturers of the pill, or generic brands.

I had been taking one pill for a long time when my pharmacy suddenly changed the manufacturer.

My body and skin did not react well.

I developed severe hormonal acne on my face and chin like I had never before.

Unsure of the cause, I tried dermatologists, medications, and stopped taking that pill and brand.

Oh,the gynecologist.

Now, its definitely not my favorite yearly visit, but it is such an important one!

I cant stress the importance of one.

Go see them, get checked, and talk about your reproductive health!

I have no immediate plans to stop taking the pill anytime soon.

You will not necessarily have the same definitive cycle you are used to when taking your pill pack.

There is a bit more uncertainty with your body in this case.

But when that time comes, I will be ready to take this step.

As a female, we have so many responsibilities.

I believe it is our right, and we must take control of our own bodies.

It is important to be proud of who we are, our health, and controlling our own narrative.

Just knowing that I have gives me strong peace of mind and makes me a happier, better person.