Trends have often played an important role in shaping how human behaviors evolve. Today, this phenomenon has intensified due to rapidly spreading trends that take over “For You Pages” on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Some trends encourage people to rethink their consumption habits, while others touch on more sensitive topics, such as health.

Recently, a “back to natural” mindset has been gaining momentum, especially regarding hormonal contraceptives. More and more women seem to be questioning how their method affects their bodies. We hear things like: “I don’t know who I am without the pill,” “I want to stop to see who I really am,” “I stopped taking the pill and it changed my life,” or even “I’m stopping the pill because I don’t think it’s good for me.” These messages reflect a legitimate desire to reconnect with one’s body and natural cycle. However, they can also lead audiences to put themselves at risk of an unplanned pregnancy by stopping their contraception.

This raises the question of whether this trend is linked to more conservative or traditionalist views, which themselves have been regaining popularity in current trends. However, these movements can indirectly, or sometimes even directly, challenge women’s fundamental rights, particularly those related to reproductive health.
However, these movements can indirectly, or even sometimes directly, call into question women’s fundamental rights, in this case those linked to reproductive health.

The choice to stop or change a contraceptive method is perfectly valid when it is informed and based on accurate information. However, these opinions circulating on social media are often simplistic and lack nuance. Hormonal contraception, especially the pill, seems to be increasingly portrayed in a negative light, even blamed for a wide range of health issues, which is not always the case. The underlying message often relies on the idea that “natural” is good, and therefore everything else, such as synthetic hormones, is inherently bad. This belief oversimplifies a far more nuanced reality and can sometimes lead to risky choices.

Let’s remember that many women begin using hormonal contraception during adolescence, a time when the body is naturally changing and identity is developing. It is completely normal at that age to experience changes, and they are not necessarily related to the method being used. Of course, like any medical treatment, hormonal contraceptives may not be suitable for everyone. In the event of significant side effects or concerns about long-term effects, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional to explore other, more suitable options. However, side effects generally decrease or disappear within three months after starting the method.

When someone wishes to interrupt or stop using their contraceptive method, it is important to learn about the other available options, especially if they want to prevent pregnancy. For example, the copper IUD or condoms can prevent pregnancy without affecting the hormonal cycle, and in the case of condoms, also provide protection against STBBIs. Additionally, the organization Seréna Québec is well known for its expertise in natural methods of contraception. It is therefore a relevant resource for anyone wishing to learn more about these approaches.

It goes without saying that it is essential to stay critical of how information circulates, especially on platforms like TikTok or Instagram, where health advice is very rarely based on scientific data or medical recommendations.

The truth is, we shouldn’t have to choose between natural and safe. Taking care of your sexual health ultimately means choosing what feels right for you, with confidence. When it comes to contraception, access to reliable, non-judgmental information is essential. Moreover, decisions about one’s sexual health should never be influenced by a trend or social pressure. Therefore, before pausing or stopping a hormonal method, it is important to talk with a health professional to ask questions, debunk popular myths, and, most importantly, find an alternative contraceptive option that is suitable and respectful of the overall well-being.

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The inclusion of all genders and people of diverse sexual orientations is a fundamental value at SOS Grossesse Estrie. The term “woman” includes anyone who identifies as a woman, as well as anyone who has a uterus or can experience pregnancy, regardless of their gender identity or expression.