Nutrient Deficiencies and Birth Control: My Story By Mattingly Weisholtz

When I was 13, I started taking the birth control pill to help with my periods. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but it ended up messing with my body in ways I didn’t expect. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how birth control can affect your health, especially when it comes to nutrients. The Start of My Journey I started the pill to control my painful periods. At first, it was great—no more terrible cramps! But then I started noticing other issues. My weight was all over the place, I was always tired, and I kept getting sick. It wasn’t until later that I realized these problems might be linked to my birth control. What Birth Control Can Do to Your Nutrients Birth control pills can mess with your body’s nutrients. Here are some of the big ones: - **Vitamin B6**: Important for mood and brain function. - **Folate (Vitamin B9)**: Crucial for DNA and cell health. - **Vitamin B12**: Needed for nerves and red blood cells. - **Magnesium**: Helps with muscles, nerves, blood sugar, and bones. - **Zinc**: Important for your immune system and healing. When these nutrients are low, you can feel tired, moody, and sick frequently—just like I did. Switching to an IUD after a few years, I switched to an IUD, hoping it would be better. It was slightly better for my periods, but I still had health problems. The nutrient deficiencies didn’t just go away. What I Wish I’d Known looking back, I wish my doctor had told me about these nutrient issues from the start. If I’d known what to look out for and how to balance my nutrition. I could have avoided a lot of the problems I faced. Birth control isn’t bad—it helped me a lot with my periods. But it’s essential to take care of your overall health, too. Ensure you’re getting the proper nutrients, and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. Final Thoughts If you’re on birth control or thinking about it, educate yourself about its effects on your body. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions and ensure you stay healthy. My journey has been challenging, but by focusing on my nutrition, I’ve been able to feel better and take control of my health. I hope my story helps you with your journey.