How the Pill changes your mind
Hormones
rule moods; if you’re on the Pill, you’re no exception.
The
brain boost
Pill users
might have increased grey area in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex.
But, say experts, it’s too early to speculate whether this could lead to better
brain function.
The
attraction factor
Women
typically go for guys whose immune systems differ from theirs. But those on the
Pill might prefer men whose systems are similar to their own. Experts speculate
that by halting ovulation, the Pill mimics pregnancy, a condition that compels
women to seek support from genetic kin. And new science shows men might
subconsciously pick up on Pill-induced hormonal changes and find women with low
odds of conceiving less attractive.
3 – The
average pregnancy rate per 100 women using the Pill
82 –
Percentage of women who have taken the Pill at some point in their lives
25 – Number
of Pill brands now on the SA market
100 million
– The number of women worldwide currently using the
Pill to prevent pregnancy.
Q&A
I
work out at gym three times a week and usually run or ride on the weekend. I’ve
just discovered I’m eight weeks pregnant. Can I continue my regimen?
Regular
exercise is important for an uncomplicated pregnancy. The general rule is to
maintain the amount of exercise, but not increase it drastically. So don’t
attempt a marathon when you usually jog around the block: cardiovascular
exercise is good, but not to the point of exhaustion. You will be more tired
than usual and, as the pregnancy progresses, you will
find your body naturally has to slow down. Cycling can be difficult later in
pregnancy. Not to mention the awkward saddle, a fall could pose a risk to the
baby. Most gym equipment is safe during pregnancy, but tell
class instructors that you are pregnant.
I go
to the bathroom almost every half an hour, yet I’m not drinking that much.
Should I be worried?
The first
step is to exclude a bladder infection (cystitis) and diabetes. Both can cause
urinary frequency. Most likely the cause is an overactive bladder where your
muscle contracts inappropriately, signaling you to pass urine before your
bladder’s full. A common cause is the habit of emptying your bladder “just in
case”. It’s very important to drink plenty of fluids despite these symptoms,
but avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol as these can aggravate the irritability.
You need to retrain your bladder by increasing the interval between bathroom
visits. If you’re still struggling, there are physios who specialize in bladder
training, and pharmaceutical agents too.
