Contraception – Does the pill trick the body into thinking it's pregnant?

In short: No. In pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone rise sharply, whereas the pill keeps hormone levels low. So the comparison with pregnancy doesn't hold.

What happens in pregnancy?

During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone levels rise many times over. High progesterone and the pregnancy hormone hCG prevent a new ovulation and menstruation. The hormonal communication between brain and ovaries isn't “disturbed” – it's working in pregnancy mode.

What does the pill do?

The pill contains synthetic forms of oestrogen and progesterone (progestin). It intervenes in the communication between brain and ovaries – the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis – and in most preparations suppresses ovulation. The body's own hormone levels stay permanently low compared with pregnancy.

Why the comparison is flawed

Both prevent ovulation, but in very different ways and with very different hormone levels. Saying “the pill tricks the body into thinking it's pregnant” is therefore a strong simplification.

Important

Always discuss contraception decisions with your gynaecologist. Don't stop taking the pill without consulting them.

Would you like naturopathic support for your cycle or hormones? More here: Naturopathy.

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