Contraceptives are often viewed as a means of preventing unplanned pregnancies, but they offer other benefits that are often overlooked or misunderstood.

These benefits range from improving physical and emotional health to providing educational opportunities. Here are six surprising benefits of using contraceptives.

1. Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers

Research shows that using hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills reduces the risk of developing ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Hormonal contraceptives prevent ovulation, which can help regulate estrogen levels and reduce the risk of developing cancer of the reproductive organs. Additionally, studies have found that women who use hormonal contraceptives have a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.

2. Improved Menstrual Cycle

Contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms like cramps, headaches, and bloating. Hormonal contraceptives, particularly birth control pills, can make periods lighter and shorter, reducing the risk of anemia.

Additionally, contraceptives can help manage conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms associated with these conditions.

3. Improved Emotional Health

Contraceptives can improve emotional health by reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), depression, and anxiety. Hormonal contraceptives can regulate hormone levels, which can help decrease mood swings and irritability.

Hormonal contraceptives can also help combat symptoms of depression and anxiety by reducing the levels of hormone-related stress in the body.

4. Improved Educational Opportunity

Contraceptives can also provide educational opportunities by allowing women to delay pregnancy until they complete their education.

By delaying parenthood until after graduation, women can focus their time and resources on their education, increasing their chances of graduating and entering higher-paying careers. Additionally, the use of contraceptives can prevent unplanned pregnancy, which can disrupt education and career plans.

5. Improved Sexual Health

Contraceptives can improve sexual health by reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. Condoms, in particular, can significantly reduce the risk of contracting STIs, including HIV.

Hormonal contraceptives can also prevent pregnancy, decreasing the risk of unplanned parenthood, and allowing couples to plan and prepare for children.

6. Reduced Healthcare Costs

Using contraceptives can also save money on healthcare costs related to unintended pregnancies and their complications. Unintended pregnancies can be expensive, requiring medical attention and, potentially, long-term care.

By preventing unintended pregnancies, contraceptives can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall health and well-being.