Are Hormonal Birth Control Methods Ever a Health Concern?

Hormonal birth control has helped millions of women safely prevent pregnancy, regulate menstrual cycles, reduce acne, and manage painful periods. This method includes pills, patches, hormonal IUDs, and injections.

Even though hormonal contraceptives are widely used and considered safe for many women, they may not be the right fit for everyone.

The OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills, wants to help you understand the potential risks that hormonal birth control can pose. Knowing when to speak with your OB/GYN can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

How hormonal birth control works

Hormonal birth control methods use synthetic forms of estrogen, progestin, or both to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the uterine lining. Common options include:

• Birth control pills
• Hormonal IUDs
• Birth control implants
• Vaginal rings
• Birth control patches
• Depo-Provera injections

In addition to pregnancy prevention, hormonal contraceptives are often prescribed to help with:

• Heavy or painful periods
• Endometriosis symptoms
• Acne
• Premenstrual symptoms
• Irregular menstrual cycles

Your provider may have suggested hormonal birth control if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which has been officially renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).

Potential symptoms caused by hormonal birth control

For most healthy women, hormonal birth control is safe and effective. Some women may experience side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Headaches
• Breakthrough bleeding
• Changes in libido

These side effects are often temporary and may improve after a few months. However, more serious health concerns can occasionally occur.

When hormonal birth control may be a concern

Certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of complications from hormonal contraceptives.

We may not recommend them for women who:

• Smoke and are over age 35
• Have a history of blood clots
• Experience migraine headaches with aura
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have certain heart or liver conditions
• Have a history of breast cancer
• Are at increased risk for stroke

Estrogen-containing birth control, in particular, can slightly increase the risk of blood clots in some women. While the overall risk remains low, it’s important to discuss your personal and family medical history with your provider.

Signs you should talk to your OB/GYN

You should reach out to us if you’re taking hormonal birth control and experience:

• Severe headaches
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Leg swelling or pain
• Significant mood changes
• Heavy bleeding
• Vision changes
• Persistent side effects that interfere with daily life

Our providers may recommend adjusting your dosage, switching methods, or exploring non-hormonal options.

Finding the right birth control for you

Many types of contraception are available and the best method depends on your health history, lifestyle, future pregnancy plans, and personal preferences.

Our experienced OB/GYNs can help you weigh the benefits and potential risks of each option to find a solution that supports both your reproductive goals and overall well-being. Reach out to Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today by phone or make an appointment online to start the conversation about contraception.