When people think of the birth control pill, they think it’s only for preventing pregnancy. Which is why there is still a stigma attached to it as people associate it with being promiscuous. However, it actually has many uses beyond preventing pregnancy. From reducing acne to easing menstrual cramps, many people take the pill for a variety of reasons. So here are a couple of other uses for the pill that you may not know about.

Regulates your period

One of the reasons why people take the pill is because it helps to regulate their period. With these pills, you’ll take three weeks of active pills which are then followed by one week of inactive pills. You then get your period on the week you take the inactive pills.

There is also an option of taking the extended-cycle, where you take the active pills for a longer time. You’ll often take three months of active pills before taking a break, so you only get your period three to four times a year. Some people’s periods are very irregular, so this way you’ll know exactly when it will occur.

For women with heavy menstrual bleeding, taking the pill lowers their blood loss by thinning the lining of the uterus. So it also helps to make your period lighter.

Cut down on cramps

Menstrual cramps are another reason why women take the pill. This is because these pills keep your ovaries from releasing the eggs every month. As a result, your uterus makes less of the chemicals that trigger the cramps. These painful cramps are known as dysmenorrhea and they affect about 90% of women. The pills with the hormone drospirenone also help to ease the symptoms of severe PMS.

To avoid migraines

Migraines can also be triggered by that time of the month as 60% of women who get migraines relate it to their periods. Migraines can come about because of a drop of estrogen, which happens during menstruation. Taking the extended cycle helps to keep your hormones in check and prevent migraines.

Treating acne

Acne is caused by the excess production of sebum, which is an oil made by glands in your skin. Along with skin cells, sebum can promote the growth of bacteria and clog pores. Androgen is a group of hormones, which include testosterone, that stimulates your skin to produce sebum.

Some women, however, produce more amounts of testosterone than others which can result in acne and excessive hair growth. The pills help to slow down the making of this hormone, which means fewer breakouts and less unwanted body or facial hair.

There are many reasons as to why women go on the pill. So make sure that you speak to your doctor about any alternative uses if you’re interested in starting the program.