While I do find it a medicinal miracle…I have my own personal issues with it, that I would never push upon anyone (well, other than my own daughter- I wouldn’t want her to take anything hormonal, especially while developing.)
I know it has been around for quite some time, but I’m still wary of the long term side effects. “the pill” aside, I’ve read too many anecdotal experiences of women on Depo-provera developing PCOS, having major fertility issues, and emotional issues.
I was on the pill for quite a while, and never gave it a second thought…it almost seemed like it was just what you did when you became sexually active. And yes, going on it is extremely responsible, I think there is not enough education on the side effects and they are brushed off as “acne, weight gain, possible moodiness”
Well, what the heck is that moodiness about? We all know hormones can mess us up, and with girls starting the pills so young (I started at 14) who knows what sort of effects it could have on the developing brain (well, you might have an idea @nikipedia lol)
Of course, currently I am not on the pill, and have no been on it for quite a long time. I did go on it shortly after my sons birth because I get severe ovarian cysts and it’s the only thing that prevents them (that and pregnancy, but I can’t be pregnant ALL the time).
The only side effect I suffer is usually a decrease in libido..I’m very sensitive to hormones in that aspect. Usually the pill clears up my skin, and makes me less moody during my period. I did two doses of Depo, and it made me lose a lot of weight and made my skin awful…I was 16 and decided it wasn’t worth it.
I would rather do natural family planning, but it takes a lot of work. So, I prefer condoms. I don’t find them restrictive at all, and it doesn’t ruin the mood at all.
Oh and to answer your last question…I don’t think it would affect the majority of pill users. There are tons of mild negative effects from taking the pill, most all we’re all aware of. I think there would have to be some huge discovery for people to finally take a second look at taking the pill.