Longevity is the new buzzword in health. But what has the biggest impact on women’s longevity? Prioritising natural, ovulatory cycles for as long as possible. Francesca Lyon, Director of Nutrition at FUTURE WOMAN tells us why.
For many women, reaching for the contraceptive pill has become a seemingly simple solution –
not only for preventing pregnancy but also for managing a range of hormonal conditions, from acne and PCOS to endometriosis. It’s often presented as a convenient way to “regulate” periods
and alleviate troublesome symptoms. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that shutting off our natural hormonal fluctuations with synthetic hormones has a significant impact on both our short-term and long-term health.
At FUTURE WOMAN, we believe that understanding the profound benefits of consistent, natural, ovulatory cycles is crucial for making informed decisions about our health, especially when considering contraception options. Our cumulative exposure to naturally produced hormones like oestrogen, testosterone, and, crucially, progesterone, dictates far more than
just our monthly cycle; it shapes our experience of perimenopause and menopause, influences our mood and memory, impacts our bone and breast health, affects our weight and skin, and
may even play a role in reducing our risk for certain cancers and thyroid issues.
The Powerhouse of Ovulation: More Than Just Making Babies
It’s a common misconception that ovulation is only important if you’re trying to conceive.
Regular ovulation is synonymous with good health for women because it’s how we make the majority of our progesterone. Progesterone, often overshadowed by oestrogen in research and conventional understanding, is critical for a multitude of bodily functions. Recent research highlights its importance for example for bone health, breast health, mood, and sleep.
Hormonal contraception ultimately suppresses ovarian function, halting the natural production of both oestrogen and progesterone. The bleeds experienced on the pill are withdrawal bleeds, not true periods resulting from a natural ovulatory cycle. Furthermore, the synthetic hormones (progestins) found in most hormonal contraception are not the same as our natural progesterone and do not offer the same full-body benefits. In fact, progestins can even have side effects that are the opposite of progesterone’s benefits, such as hair loss, weight gain, worsening insulin resistance, acne, depression, and low mood as they act on testosterone receptors in the body.
The Long-Term Rewards of Natural Cycles
When it comes to prioritising natural cycles, the benefits are far-reaching.
● A Better Menopause: Cumulative exposure to progesterone throughout a woman’s reproductive years may contribute to a smoother transition through perimenopause and
menopause. Supporting natural ovulation for as long as possible ensures ongoing progesterone production.
● Improved Mood and Memory: Both oestrogen and progesterone have significant impacts on brain health. Progesterone, for instance, has been shown to protect brain health and support memory and mental clarity. Maintaining natural cycles allows for the
continued production of these vital hormones, potentially contributing to better mood stability and cognitive function.
● Better Breast and Bone Health: Progesterone is crucial for breast and bone health. Consistent ovulation ensures regular progesterone production, which contributes to long-term breast and bone health.
● Healthy Weight: Natural hormonal balance plays a role in metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Disrupting this balance with hormonal contraception can sometimes lead to weight changes and increased insulin resistance.
● Fewer Wrinkles and Healthy Skin: Oestrogen supports skin health, and progesterone also plays a role. Maintaining natural cycles supports the production of these hormones,
potentially contributing to healthier, more youthful-looking skin.
● Reduced Risk for Cancers and Thyroid Issues: While research is ongoing, the
cumulative effects of natural hormones are being investigated for their potential
protective roles against certain cancers. For example, progesterone may have a
protective effect on the endometrium. Furthermore, natural hormonal balance can influence thyroid function.
Navigating Contraception Post-Kids: A Natural Perspective
If you’re weighing up your contraception options, considering the long-term benefits of maintaining natural cycles is key. While hormonal contraception is effective at preventing pregnancy, it comes at the cost of suppressing your body’s natural hormone production and the associated health advantages.
At FUTURE WOMAN, we generally encourage clients to support natural cycles for as long as possible. For contraception, we often suggest exploring non-hormonal options like condoms or the copper IUD, which allows for continued ovulation and natural hormone production. The
Fertility Awareness Method (FAM), which involves tracking your cycle, basal body
temperature, and cervical mucus, can also be a highly effective option when used correctly and consistently.
Tips for Ovulatory and Symptom-Free Natural Cycles
Achieving regular, ovulatory cycles with minimal symptoms involves supporting your body’s natural hormonal balance. Here are a few initial tips:
● Manage Stress: Stress can significantly disrupt the HPO axis and hinder ovulation. Prioritise stress-reducing activities like mindfulness, yoga, or spending time in nature.
(As discussed in our conversation history, stress has wide-ranging negative impacts on hormonal health).
● Balance Blood Sugar: Stable blood sugar levels are crucial for hormone balance and regular ovulation. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods and avoid excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates.
● Prioritise Sleep: Adequate, high-quality sleep is essential for hormone regulation. Aim for 8-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep routine.
● Nourish Your Body: Ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients through a balanced diet. Certain nutrients, like zinc, are important for progesterone production and hormone
health.
● Consider Cycle Tracking: Understanding your menstrual cycle as a “fifth vital sign” can provide valuable insights into your hormonal health and help you identify potential
imbalances. Tools like period tracking apps or the FAM can empower you to recognise your body’s natural rhythms.
If you are considering coming off hormonal contraception or want to learn more about supporting your natural cycle, we recommend consulting with a healthcare practitioner who specialises in women’s hormone health. At FUTURE WOMAN, we offer comprehensive
hormone testing to understand your unique hormonal picture and provide personalised nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement plans to support healthy, ovulatory cycles and long-term well-being.
Key takeaway
While the pill may offer convenience and symptom management, it’s crucial to recognise the profound and lasting benefits of our natural hormonal cycles. By prioritising ovulation and supporting our body’s innate rhythms, we can invest in a healthier, more vibrant future.