Hormonal birth control is often framed as an easy fix—pop a pill, wear a patch, get a shot, and your cycle concerns are solved. But the truth is more complex. These synthetic hormones don’t actually “regulate” your cycle—they replace it, silencing your body’s natural rhythm. Understanding what that means is key to making informed choices about your health.

Your period is more than a monthly inconvenience—it’s a vital sign of your overall health. When patterns shift, your body is sending a message worth paying attention to.