Expert: DW - 1/25/2010

Question
I have been on birth control pills for 22 years straight (no break). I've had to try so many pills through those years because of different side effects. I am single and not currently sexually active. I want to try to go off the pill, but I'm so afraid of how my body would react. I may become a whole different person (maybe better of maybe worse mood wise). I've had a bout of alopecia in the past and I would hate to go through that if I went off the pill. I'm mostly concerned about depression and hair loss. Do you have any advice for me? Thank you

Answer
Dear Deanna,

Thanks for your question. I do believe it can be harmful to be on the pill for this long a period of time. I was on the pill for about 10 years and I was not informed at that time about the pill and the harmful side effects. I don't remember if I had any side effects from going off. I did go off because I wanted to have a baby at that time and did have my daughter.

I would encourage you to go off but maybe with a doctor's supervision. I would recommend that you take supplements and vitamins but you would have to get some advice about that. I can't really give you any other advice other than I think it would be healthy for you to go back to a normal, non-hormonal lifestyle.

Like I said, get some medical advice or advice from a natural vitamin or food store. I also have an online friend who might be able to advise you on food and supplements. Let me know if you would be interested in corresponding with her.

My email address is DWooley97@yahoo.com and I would like to stay in touch with you and find out what happens.

Sincerely,
Diane W.