Birth control pill may help you avoid an ACL damage, suggests a new study published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, in addition to preventing unwanted pregnancy and controlling periods.
Yes, the relationship does seem strange. However, when you hear the justification: The collagen composition and strength of the ligament that joins the top and bottom of your knee can be weakened by estrogen, a female hormone that peaks around puberty and changes throughout your menstrual cycle. According to studies, female soccer players are up to 2.4 times more likely than male players to sustain an ACL injury.
Also Read ABout How to Use Your Birth Control to Prevent PMS
However, this recent study found that young women with ACL injuries who use oral contraceptives—which reduce and regulate estrogen levels—are 18% less likely than those who don’t to require corrective surgery.
In order to conduct this study, the researchers looked at prescription data from 23,428 females between the ages of 15 and 19 and national insurance claims (this group has the highest risk of an ACL tear since playing high school and college sports is super-popular). About 17% fewer ACL injuries occurred in women who took the Pill than in those who did not. Injury to the shoulder or ankle was not included in the findings.
Also Read ABout How to Use Your Birth Control to Prevent PMS
The study’s authors conclude that these findings “strengthen previously observed links between ACL damage and menstrual cycle hormone changes and imply Birth Control Pill pharmacologic intervention would be a feasible strategy for preventing these injuries.” What I mean is? It might be worthwhile to pick up a prescription at the gynecologist if you enjoy your sports and workout on the severe side and aren’t planning on having children any time soon.
Also Read ABout How to Use Your Birth Control to Prevent PMS