by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Jun 26, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
More Energy, Less Fatigue:
How Smart Nutrition Can Beat That Sluggish Feeling
Quick Summary
Feeling drained despite sleeping well and eating right? If you’re using hormonal contraception, especially the pill, your energy levels may be affected by subtle but significant vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Supporting your body with the right micronutrients can make all the difference.
Why Am I Tired Despite Healthy Habits?
You’re eating well, staying active, sleeping enough – and still feeling flat. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many women experience unexplained fatigue even when they live a “healthy” lifestyle. And one often-overlooked factor? Hormonal birth control.
The Hidden Energy Thief: Nutrient Deficiency on the Pill
The pill doesn’t just regulate your hormones – it can also impact nutrient absorption and increase your need for specific vitamins and minerals. This can quietly deplete your system and leave you feeling low on energy.
These are the nutrients most commonly affected:
- B vitamins (B6, B12, folate): critical for energy metabolism and brain function
- Magnesium: helps reduce tiredness, supports nerves and muscle recovery
- Zinc & Selenium: key for immune support, mood balance, and antioxidant defence
- Vitamins C & E: combat oxidative stress and protect cellular energy
Without these, you might notice:
🚫 Lack of motivation
🚫 Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
🚫 Low mood
🚫 Poor performance during workouts
Calories ≠ Energy – It’s About Cellular Power
Calories fuel your body – but real energy starts at the cellular level. Your mitochondria need the right co-factors, like magnesium and B vitamins, to turn food into usable energy.
Think of your body like an e-bike. Without power (aka nutrients), you can’t move – no matter how good your intentions or habits.
How to Boost Energy Naturally on Birth Control
- Review your lifestyle:
Are you hydrated? Stressed? On medication? These all raise your nutrient requirements. - Focus on nutrient-dense foods:
Leafy greens, lentils, oats, seeds, berries and nuts are rich in natural energy nutrients. - Consider a supplement:
A high-quality micronutrient supplement for women on hormonal contraception can help restore what’s missing and support energy levels and mood. - Exercise with awareness:
Some fatigue isn’t solved by pushing harder. Your body may need rest, replenishment – and targeted nutrition.
Final Thought
If you’re feeling run-down despite your best efforts, it might not be your routine – it might be your nutrient status. Especially if you’re on the pill, understanding your vitamin and mineral needs is essential.
Because energy isn’t just about willpower.
It’s about cellular health – and that starts with what you feed your body. 🔋
FAQ
Why am I tired even though I get enough sleep?
You may be dealing with a hidden micronutrient deficiency – especially common among women using hormonal contraception.
Which micronutrients support energy?
B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, folate, and vitamins C and E are essential for cellular energy and hormonal balance.
How does magnesium help with low energy?
Magnesium activates over 300 enzymes and helps your muscles and nerves stay functional and resilient.
What can I do about fatigue caused by the pill?
Get your nutrient levels checked, consider targeted supplementation, and focus on a nutrient-rich diet.
Which supplement helps with fatigue related to hormonal contraception?
A specially formulated micronutrient supplement for women on the pill – such as Resilovit® pill.
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | May 20, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
You’re chilling on the sofa, matcha in hand, everything seems calm — yet your heart races, you feel on edge, tired, or like you’re constantly wired for no reason?
You’re not imagining it — your body’s just picking up the wrong signals.
And one of those signals could be coming from something totally ordinary: The contraceptive pill.
The Link Between Hormones, the Pill & Your Stress Response
Here’s something not everyone knows:
The pill doesn’t just change your cycle — it can also affect how your body handles stress. Specifically, it can alter how your adrenal glands respond and how much cortisol (your main stress hormone) is released.
Studies have shown that women on hormonal contraception often have an altered cortisol response. That means your body reacts to normal life like it’s facing a threat — even when everything’s fine.
The result?
- Restlessness
- Trouble concentrating
- Mood swings
- Sleep issues
- Cravings
- That strange feeling of not being “at home” in your own body
Chronic Stress = Nutrient Drain
And here’s where it gets even trickier:
When your body stays in stress mode for too long, it uses up far more of the nutrients you’re already losing through the pill.
Here are the key ones:
- Vitamin B6, B12 & folate – vital for your nervous system, mood and hormone balance
- Magnesium – your body’s natural chill-out mineral
- Zinc & vitamin C – protect cells from oxidative stress
- Selenium & vitamin E – support detox and cellular defence
If you’re running low on these, that constant “overwhelmed” feeling can get even worse — even when life looks perfectly fine on the outside.
What You Can Do: Knowledge + Balance = Power
You can help your body reset and find balance again — through nutrition, rest, movement… and by replenishing the nutrients the pill quietly drains.
That’s exactly why Resilovit® pill was developed:
To restore the essential micronutrients your body needs while you’re on hormonal contraception — and to support not just your natural glow, but also your emotional resilience and inner balance.
Learn more about Resilovit® pill:
shop.resilovit.com
Bottom line: You’re not “too sensitive” — your body just needs a reset.
If your inner world feels like it’s on high alert, it’s not a weakness. It’s a signal.
And with the right support, your body can feel grounded, safe, and truly well again.
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Apr 24, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
The Birth Control Pill and Your Liver
The liver is one of the most vital organs when it comes to detoxifying our body. It breaks down not only medication and alcohol but also synthetic hormones, such as those found in the contraceptive pill. But what does this mean for your health?
Extra Work for Our Detox Organ Due to the Pill
When taken, the pill – like any other medication – first passes through the liver before having an effect on the ovaries and uterus. The liver immediately recognises that these artificial substances do not naturally belong in the body in such quantities and attempts to break them down.
However, because the hormones in the pill are relatively high in dosage, the liver has to work at full capacity constantly, which can put a significant strain on it over time. When combined with high-fat foods, sugar, alcohol, and nicotine, it’s no surprise that this burden can become too much.
Liver Damage from the Pill – Rare but Possible
In rare cases, the pill can even cause liver damage. The German Drug Commission of the Medical Profession reported the case of an 18-year-old patient who developed severe liver damage after taking a low-dose pill for six months. Symptoms such as fatigue, itching, nausea, irritability, and jaundice can be signs of liver damage. In such cases, it’s crucial to seek medical advice quickly.
Women with a history of liver problems during pregnancy should be especially cautious.
Protecting the Liver
So, what can we do to relieve and detoxify our liver? The good news is that the liver is incredibly resilient and can regenerate fully. However, this requires lifestyle changes, particularly in terms of diet. Vegetables, for instance, contain plenty of bitter compounds that support the liver in detoxification. Staying well-hydrated and engaging in regular physical activity also help the liver.
Women who use the pill can take proactive steps to support their liver by ensuring they get the following essential nutrients:
B Vitamins: A Key Factor for a Healthy Liver
The liver depends on an adequate supply of nutrients – especially B vitamins. These are crucial for the liver’s detoxification processes and help regulate metabolism.
The issue is that the pill increases the body’s demand for B vitamins, as it affects their metabolism. This can lead to deficiencies, putting additional strain on the liver. A lack of B vitamins can also cause fatigue, concentration issues, and mood swings – symptoms many women experience after years of taking the pill.
Antioxidants, Zinc & Selenium: Protection for the Liver
In addition to B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, zinc, and selenium play a crucial role in liver health. The pill increases the demand for these nutrients, which can exacerbate the issue.
Vitamin C & E: These antioxidants protect the liver from oxidative stress and aid in cell regeneration. Early studies suggest that a combination of Vitamin C and E can improve liver function in women with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Zinc & Selenium: These minerals are essential for liver metabolism. A deficiency can worsen chronic liver conditions. Research indicates that high-dose zinc supplementation may slow the progression of liver damage.
The pill increases the body’s need for these nutrients while simultaneously making their absorption less efficient. A conscious diet and targeted supplementation can help relieve the liver and improve overall well-being.
What Does This Mean for You?
Choosing a contraceptive method is a personal decision. However, it’s worth considering the potential effects on your body. If you experience symptoms like low energy, reduced libido, or hormonal imbalances, it may be beneficial to assess your liver function.
💡 Tip:
✅ Follow a liver-friendly diet rich in B vitamins, Vitamin C & E, zinc, and selenium.
✅ Herbs such as milk thistle can help support liver function.
✅ If necessary, consider targeted supplementation – speak with your doctor or a nutritionist about your options.
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Apr 1, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
Have you ever wondered how your birth control pill affects your mineral balance? If you use hormonal contraception, it’s essential to support your body in the best way possible – and magnesium plays a key role in this.
Why Magnesium is Essential
Magnesium is more than just a mineral. It’s a true all-rounder, involved in over 300 biochemical processes. It supports muscle and nerve function, maintains a steady heartbeat and healthy blood pressure, strengthens bones and teeth, and helps convert food into energy.
Studies suggest that women who take hormonal contraceptives like the pill often have lower magnesium levels – more on this below.
Magnesium-Rich Foods for Your Health
The best way to ensure a sufficient magnesium intake is through a varied, balanced diet. Some excellent sources of magnesium include:
- Leafy green vegetables: Spinach, kale, and other greens are packed with vitamins and provide a great magnesium boost.
- Nuts & seeds: Almonds, cashews, and sunflower seeds are not only delicious snacks but also excellent sources of magnesium.
- Whole grains & legumes: Wholegrain bread, oats, beans, and lentils offer long-lasting energy and help maintain your mineral balance.
- Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and other oily fish contain both omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium.
- Drinking water: Depending on its mineral content, your tap or bottled water can also contribute to your magnesium intake.
Balance is key: an excessive intake of other minerals – such as calcium, iron, or copper – can hinder magnesium absorption, especially when taken in high-dose supplements.
Recommended Daily Intake and Special Needs
For adults, the recommended daily magnesium intake is generally between 300 and 400 mg. During pregnancy, breastfeeding, high-stress periods, or when taking certain medications, your needs may increase.
A magnesium deficiency can manifest through muscle cramps and twitches, fatigue and sleep disturbances, headaches, irregular heartbeat, and an increased susceptibility to stress and anxiety.
Interesting Fact: Since only about 1% of the body’s magnesium is measurable in the blood, long-term deficiencies often go unnoticed. A magnesium retention test can help detect true deficiencies.
Causes of Magnesium Deficiency
A lack of magnesium can have various causes. Aside from an insufficient intake through diet, the following factors may also contribute:
- Impaired absorption: Digestive disorders like chronic diarrhoea, malabsorption, or intestinal surgery can hinder magnesium absorption.
- Increased excretion: Intense physical activity, excessive sweating, kidney disease, or poorly managed diabetes can lead to higher magnesium loss.
- Medication effects: Certain medications – such as diuretics, antibiotics, and hormonal contraceptives – can disrupt magnesium levels.
Hormonal Contraception and Increased Magnesium Needs
Several studies, including research by Palmery et al. (2013), have shown that taking the pill can impact magnesium metabolism. Women using hormonal contraceptives often have lower magnesium levels, which can disrupt the delicate balance between magnesium and calcium. This imbalance not only affects heart health but can also influence blood clotting.
For this reason, if you’re using hormonal contraception, it’s especially important to ensure adequate magnesium intake – whether through a conscious diet or, if needed, with targeted supplementation, ideally in consultation with your doctor.
Your Path to Better Wellbeing
Magnesium is a crucial mineral that significantly contributes to your overall health and wellbeing. A balanced diet rich in magnesium-containing foods can help you meet your daily needs – and if necessary, professional advice on supplementation can be beneficial.
Look after your magnesium levels!
If you take hormonal contraceptives like the pill, keeping an eye on your magnesium intake is worthwhile. Talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about ways to optimise your levels and enhance your wellbeing – your body will thank you!
Take action now and build a solid foundation for your health!
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Mar 5, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
The Pill and Its Side Effects: What to Know and How to Support Your Body
The contraceptive pill is a convenient and popular choice – but did you know it affects your body in various ways? Don’t worry, we’re here to explain the most common side effects and share tips on how to keep your body balanced while using hormonal contraception.
1. Minor Symptoms, Major Impact
Many women experience headaches, mood swings, spotting, or breast tenderness. A drop in libido is also common. Sound familiar? These side effects are not unusual and can often be improved with small lifestyle adjustments.
2. Rare but Serious Risks
Did you know that the pill can increase the risk of thrombosis and embolism? This includes deep vein thrombosis, strokes, and heart attacks. Sudden vision problems or high blood pressure could be warning signs – if you notice them, see a doctor immediately!
3. Your Liver is Working Overtime
Since the pill is processed through the liver, it can put extra strain on this vital organ. Over time, this may lead to issues like gallbladder problems or even liver damage. Support your liver by staying hydrated and eating a nutrient-rich diet.
4. Could You Be Lacking Essential Nutrients?
Taking the pill can increase your body’s demand for certain vitamins and minerals – particularly vitamins B6, B9, B12, C, and E, as well as magnesium and zinc. A balanced diet and high-quality supplements can help fill these gaps.
5. Thinking Long Term
Some studies suggest that the pill may slightly raise the risk of certain cancers, such as breast or cervical cancer. On the other hand, it can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. The best approach? Talk to your doctor to understand the potential risks and benefits for you.
6. How’s Your Thyroid?
The hormones in the pill can influence thyroid function. If you’re suddenly feeling fatigued or low on energy, it might be worth getting your thyroid levels checked. A healthy thyroid is key to overall wellbeing.
7. What You Can Do
Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential, but there’s also a lot you can do yourself: maintain a balanced diet, stay active, get enough sleep, and manage stress levels. Supporting your body with the right supplements can also make a difference.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter – stay informed and make the best choices for your health! 🌸✨
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Feb 10, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
Riboflavin – The Overlooked Vitamin for Women
Missing an Essential Vitamin?
Did you know that the birth control pill doesn’t just affect hormone levels but also increases your need for riboflavin (Vitamin B2)? This nutrient is vital for your health and well-being, and a deficiency could even worsen side effects like migraines.
Why is Riboflavin So Special?
Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin involved in numerous critical processes. It supports energy metabolism and the immune system, protects cells from oxidative stress, and helps activate other important vitamins like vitamin D and folate. It’s also essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. For women, riboflavin plays an even bigger role, influencing hormonal processes.
Birth Control and Riboflavin Deficiency – What Happens in Your Body?
Taking the pill increases your need for riboflavin. Why? Hormones in the pill, such as estrogen, stimulate specific riboflavin-binding proteins that distribute the vitamin throughout your body, lowering blood levels. This “hormonally induced riboflavin scavenging” effect of the pill raises the risk of deficiency. Studies suggest that women with a riboflavin deficiency are more likely to experience migraines and may also feel other side effects of the pill more intensely.
Natural Riboflavin Sources for Your Diet
Riboflavin is found in many foods—but is it enough? The best sources include:
- Dairy products like cheese and yogurt
- Mushrooms like champignons and oyster mushrooms
- Legumes such as lentils and beans
- Fish like mackerel and pollock
- Whole grains and nuts
Women following a vegan diet or avoiding dairy are especially at risk of not getting enough riboflavin. Also, keep in mind that riboflavin is destroyed by light, so store these foods in the dark. Since it’s water-soluble, riboflavin can easily leach out during cooking, so be mindful of preparation methods.
Take Care of Your Health While Using Birth Control!
Birth control is a personal choice, but it shouldn’t compromise your nutrient levels. Maintain a balanced diet and consider supplementing your riboflavin intake—e.g. with Resilovit® pill, specially designed for women using hormonal contraception, providing 4.2 mg of riboflavin daily.
Your body will thank you!
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Jan 9, 2025 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
Which Vitamins and Minerals Are Often Depleted by Birth Control Pills?
Ever Wondered What the Pill Does Beyond Contraception?
Did you know that the birth control pill can affect more than just your hormone levels? It can also influence the balance of certain vitamins and minerals in your body, potentially impacting your well-being and even contributing to common side effects.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common nutrient deficiencies associated with the pill and how they can affect your health.
Which Vitamins and Minerals Are Affected?
Taking the pill regularly can lead to deficiencies in the following micronutrients:
- B Vitamins (B2, B6, B12, and Folate): These are essential for energy metabolism, blood production and your mental health. A deficiency can cause fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and anemia. Folate is crucial for cell division and renewal, and its deficiency can increase the risk of birth defects, making it especially important for women trying to conceive.
- Vitamins C and E: As antioxidants, these vitamins protect cells from oxidative stress. A lack can weaken the immune system and accelerate skin aging.
- Magnesium: This mineral is vital for muscle function and energy metabolism. A deficiency may lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, and headaches.
- Zinc: Zinc supports the immune system, wound healing, skin and hair. A deficiency can result in skin issues, hair loss, and a greater susceptibility to infections.
How Might a Deficiency Affect You?
An imbalance in these nutrients can manifest in various symptoms:
- Energy Loss and Fatigue: Struggling to get out of bed or feeling sluggish all day? Low levels of B vitamins and magnesium can lead to persistent exhaustion.
- Skin and Hair Issues: If your skin is breaking out or your hair seems dull and lifeless, a lack of zinc and Vitamin C could be contributing to these problems.
- Mood Swings: Feeling on top of the world one minute and down the next? A deficiency in Vitamin B6 can disrupt serotonin production, affecting mood stability and even contributing to depressive disorder.
Expert Tip
„Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to help counteract nutrient deficiencies. However, in some cases, supplementation might be necessary—especially if you face additional risk factors like stress or a vegan diet. Products like Resilovit® pill are specifically designed to address the nutrient deficiencies caused by birth control pills. They provide a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to meet your increased needs.“
While the pill offers a reliable contraceptive method, it can also disrupt your nutrient balance. By maintaining a conscious approach to your diet and, if needed, incorporating targeted supplements, you can help prevent deficiencies, reduce side effects, and improve your overall well-being. Listen to your body and support it with the nutrients it needs.
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Dec 3, 2024 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
The Surprising Link Between Oral Contraceptives and Vitamin B6: What Every Young Woman Needs to Know
As a young woman navigating the myriad of health information available, you may already be familiar with the benefits of oral contraceptives (OCs) for birth control and managing menstrual symptoms. However, a less well-known aspect of using OCs is their impact on your nutritional health, specifically regarding vitamin B6. Recent research sheds light on how this essential nutrient can influence your physical mental well-being. This is especially important if you’re using hormonal contraception, as lack of vitamin B6 can potentially exacerbate common side effects of OCs such as depressive disorders.
The Importance of Vitamin B6 for Mental Health
Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, but one of its most significant roles is as a cofactor in the tryptophan-serotonin pathway. This pathway is essential for mood regulation. What happens in this pathway is that the essential amino acid tryptophan is converted in the body into serotonin. Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.
Vitamin B6 is a critical cofactor in the enzymatic process that converts tryptophan into serotonin. Without sufficient vitamin B6, the conversion slows down, potentially reducing serotonin levels. This disruption can affect mood regulation and sleep patterns, leading to symptoms like irritability, fatigue, or even depression.
The Impact of Oral Contraceptives on Vitamin B6 Status
Oral contraceptives can significantly interfere with vitamin B6 status. Women using OCs have a higher risk of developing vitamin B6 deficiency compared to non-users. Studies show that 48.1% of OC users have deficient or marginal vitamin B6 status, compared to just 18.4% of those not using OCs. While some studies suggest that levels can normalize with prolonged use or supplementation, deficiencies remain a concern for many women.
When OCs interfere with vitamin B6 status, they can indirectly hinder the efficient use of tryptophan, lowering serotonin levels and exacerbating a common side effect of the birth control pill: mood swings and depressive disorders.
The Study: Exploring the Connection
A recent 12-week, randomized, double-blind crossover trial focused on this very issue. The study involved college-aged women (18-25 years old) who had been using OCs (a combination of estrogen and progestin) consistently for at least a year. These women did not take any other dietary supplements, ensuring that the results were specific to the effects of vitamin B6.
Participants underwent two 4-week treatment periods separated by a 4-week washout phase. During one period, they supplemented vitamin B6 daily, while during the other, they were given a placebo. They maintained their usual exercise and eating habits, and their dietary vitamin B6 intake remained consistent (1.2–1.4 mg/day) throughout the study.
Benefits of B6 Supplementation for OC Users
The results were revealing:
- Improved Vitamin B6 Status: After the supplementation period, participants’ vitamin B6 levels significantly increased.
- Reduction in Depressive Symptoms: Participants showed a 20% reduction in depressive symptoms with vitamin B6 supplementation, compared to an 11% increase during the placebo period.
What Does This Mean for You?
The evidence is clear: oral contraceptives can interfere with vitamin B6 levels, potentially impacting mood and mental well-being. However, these effects can often be mitigated with appropriate dietary changes or supplementation.
Practical Takeaways
- Stay Informed: Knowing how your contraceptive choice interacts with your nutrition is crucial for making empowered health decisions.
- Monitor Your Diet: Incorporate vitamin B6-rich foods like fish, poultry, potatoes, and non-citrus fruits to maintain adequate levels naturally.
- Consider Supplementation: Studies recommend a daily intake of 1.5 to 5 mg of vitamin B6 for most OC users to prevent deficiencies and support mood regulation.
Final Thoughts
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between oral contraceptives and vitamin B6, the current evidence underscores the importance of maintaining optimal nutrient levels for overall well-being. By staying proactive about your nutrition, you can better manage potential side effects of hormonal contraception and support your mental health.
Remember, your health journey is personal, and informed choices are key to feeling your best every day.
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Oct 25, 2024 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
Do you often suffer from a lack of energy and drive, tiredness and mood swings, even depression, but can’t find a real cause? Many women suffer from these complaints, and something many of them have in common is that they use hormonal oral contraceptives (commonly known as the birth control pill). It is this little pill that can be responsible for the various symptoms described. Something many women, and even doctors, do not know is that the pill can cause a deficiency in a number of essential vitamins and trace elements. This is not surprising, as hormones generally have a systemic effect on the whole body. In the long term, chronic nutrient deficiencies can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings and even depression, nausea and weight gain.
B vitamins – central to energy and nerve metabolism
B vitamins are central to energy metabolism and are also needed for the normal functioning of the nervous system. A lack of these vitamins can lead to a lack of energy and drive, tiredness, mood swings and even depression. The pill is considered to be a real nutrient thief, especially when it comes to the B vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid, which is why experts recommend targeted supplementation. For example, according to one study, taking extra vitamin B6 can significantly reduce the unpleasant side effects of the pill, such as mood swings, in many women1). The three B vitamins are also involved in the formation of red blood cells, which underlines the importance of an adequate supply of B vitamins. Severe forms of vitamin B deficiency can lead to anaemia in the long term (vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia, folic acid deficiency anaemia). A well-functioning immune system also depends on an adequate supply of these three B vitamins.
Increased risk of thrombosis
Thrombosis is a blockage of a blood vessel that can have a variety of causes and can occur in different parts of the body. One cause can be excessive levels of homocysteine in the blood. Homocysteine is a breakdown product of amino acids, i.e. protein building blocks, that is constantly produced during cell metabolism. This substance has vascular-damaging properties, which can subsequently lead to vascular calcification and blockage of blood vessels (= blood clots/thrombosis). This is where the three vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid come into the game. Together, they are responsible for the breakdown of this vascular toxin. Pundits link their deficiency to the often-described increased risk of thrombosis when taking oral contraceptives. They therefore recommend supplementation with these vitamins. The Pill Report by the University of Bremen in cooperation with a German health insurance showed a significant increase in the risk of thrombosis, especially with the newer 3rd and 4th generation pills.2)
Folate deficiency – critical if you want to have children in the future
A link between the use of hormonal oral contraceptives and a reduced level of folate in the blood serum was suspected as early as the 1960s, and in the following years this link was confirmed in several studies3). Folate levels did not return to normal until 3 months after stopping the pill. This is very important because folic acid is a key vitamin during pregnancy. Experts recommend taking folic acid supplements 4 weeks before conception. If you decide to become pregnant and stop taking the pill, the undetected folate deficiency caused by the pill can have a devastating effect on the development of your future baby. The best known consequence of folic acid deficiency during pregnancy is neural tube defects, such as open spina bifida.
Women who use a birth control pill benefit in many ways from a targeted, comprehensive and scientifically based compensation of nutrient deficiencies.
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Oct 25, 2024 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
Why is contraception so often a women’s issue? A look at shared responsibility.
In many partnerships, the issue of contraception is automatically associated with the woman. But why is this? Is it because women have a wide range of contraceptive methods to choose from, while men are limited to condoms or vasectomies? Or is it force of habit? Or is it the consequences of pregnancy that encourage women to take responsibility?
What methods of contraception are available?
The reality is that women have a wider range of contraceptive methods available to them, including hormonal and non-hormonal options such as the pill, the IUD, the condom and more. While some women do well with hormonal methods, others struggle with side effects. This is partly because hormonal contraceptives impact so many different aspects of our bodys and minds, affecting how we feel far beyond their contraceptive effect. It is therefore important to decide which method is best for you.
Is contraception still a woman’s issue?
Historically, women have often had the primary responsibility for contraception, but this dynamic has changed in recent years in many parts of the world.
Nowadays, responsibility for contraception is often a shared decision between partners, and both can be involved in choosing and using contraception.
Data from the Federal Centre for Health Education show that contraceptive behaviour has changed in recent years. More young people are using condoms, leading to a more equal distribution of responsibility. However, women still have more options, which means that they often bear the main responsibility. The fact that there are fewer contraceptive options for men obviously plays a role.
Why are there no better contraceptive methods for men?
One reason is that there has simply not been a lot of investment in research and development of male contraceptives. Although there have been some promising approaches, no really reliable contraceptive methods for men have yet been developed. The condom therefore remains the best option for men to prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases.
But contraception is not the sole responsibility of women. It is time to share the responsibility more equally between the sexes. Through open communication and a willingness to learn about different contraceptive methods, couples can work together to find the best solution.
What about you? Share your experiences!
by Dr. Birgit Wogatzky | Oct 25, 2024 | Symptoms of nutrient deficiency
The decision to stop taking the pill is a big one for many women. Whether it is for family planning reasons, health reasons or simply because you want a hormone-free life, there are many factors that can influence this decision. But before you take this step, it’s important to be well informed. In this article, I’ll look at some of the important things to consider when coming off the pill, including post-pill syndrome and the need to prepare your body for a potential pregnancy.
What is post-pill syndrome
Post-pill syndrome refers to a range of symptoms that some women may experience after stopping the pill. These symptoms can vary and range from hormonal imbalances to menstrual irregularities and mood swings. Your body needs time to regenerate and regain its natural balance after years of using hormonal contraceptives. So if you find that your body is reacting differently than expected after stopping the pill, be patient and give it a few weeks to adjust.
Effects on the nutrient balance
Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives such as the pill can cause your body to become deficient in important vitamins and minerals. These include deficiencies in vitamins such as B6, B12 and folic acid, minerals such as magnesium and zinc, and protective antioxidants such as vitamin C, E and coenzyme Q10. The best thing to do is to make sure you get the right balance of these nutrients. Ideally, you should supplement them as a precaution while you’re still taking the pill, so that you don’t get into nutrient deficiencies in the first place. Once you stop taking the pill, supplementing these vital nutrients can help restore your body’s natural balance. This is particularly important for women who want to have children, as a lack of folic acid can affect the development of the foetus.
Preparing for pregnancy
If you are planning to become pregnant after stopping the pill, you should prepare your body accordingly. This includes rebuilding your folic acid stores, as folic acid plays an important role in the development of the baby’s neural tube and can reduce the risk of neural tube defects. It is recommended that women who are trying to get pregnant wait at least three months before actively trying to conceive. During this time, you can support your body by eating a balanced diet rich in folic acid and other essential nutrients, and taking supplements if necessary to make sure you get all the vitamins and minerals you need.
Conclusion
Stopping the pill is a personal decision that should be well thought out. It is important to be aware that the transition may involve some changes in your body, but it is also an opportunity to get to know your body’s natural rhythms and needs. If you are planning to have children, it is advisable to prepare your body by optimising your nutrition and giving it time to regenerate. Ultimately, it is important to listen to your body and make the decision that is best for you.
