Have you been unusually irritable, anxious, or emotionally unstable since you started taking birth control pills? You’re not alone. While these pills are a reliable way to prevent pregnancy and regulate your menstrual cycles, they can sometimes affect how you feel emotionally. One moment you’re perfectly fine, and the next, even a small annoyance can set you off. Or maybe you’ve noticed a feeling of sadness that wasn’t there before. Could your birth control be to blame?
To better understand birth control pills and mood swings, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr. Neha Khandelwal, Director, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Klodneen Group of Hospitals, New Delhi.
“Birth control pills are designed to balance reproductive hormones, but those same hormones interact with chemicals in the brain that can sometimes affect emotional stability,” explains Dr. Khandelwal.
Here’s what you need to know about birth control pills and their potential effect on mood.
How do birth control pills work?
According to the National Institutes of Health, birth control pills primarily contain synthetic hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to block sperm, and thin the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation.
While these measures provide reliable contraception, they also affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which regulates mood. Dr. Khandelwal adds, “Hormones like estrogen can increase feelings of well-being, but fluctuations or imbalances caused by synthetic hormones can have the opposite effect.”
Also read: Emergency contraceptive pills: Everything you need to know
The connection between hormones and emotions
Hormones are closely linked to emotional well-being. Estrogen often promotes happiness, while lower levels or sudden changes in its concentration can lead to mood swings. Progestin, the synthetic counterpart of progesterone, is known to have a calming effect. In some people, it can increase feelings of irritability, anxiety, or depression.
“Not everyone experiences mood swings,” says Dr. Khandelwal. However, those with a history of mental illness may be more sensitive to these hormonal changes.
Signs that your pill may be affecting your mood
Mood swings related to birth control pills can manifest in a variety of ways, such as:
- Irritability : You feel angry or frustrated easily.
- Depression : Persistent sadness or feelings of hopelessness, especially in people who are prone to depressive episodes.
- Anxiety : Increased feelings of anxiety or tension.
- Emotional instability : Rapid emotional changes, such as going from happiness to sadness in a short period of time.
For many, these symptoms will go away as the body adjusts to the medication. However, for some, they persist and require intervention.
Read also: How do birth control pills cause breast cancer?
Managing mood swings
If you suspect that birth control pills are affecting your mood, consider these strategies:
-
Allow time for adjustment
. It takes time for hormonal changes to stabilize. If you’ve just started taking a new pill, give your body a few months to adjust. -
Explore alternative pills
“If one type of pill is causing mood swings, switching to another with a different hormonal composition or dosage may help,” advises Dr. Khandelwal. These effects can sometimes be reduced by progestin-only pills or low-dose estrogen. -
Non-hormonal options
If hormonal methods are consistently disrupting your emotional health, non-hormonal alternatives, such as copper IUDs, may be more suitable. -
Adopting a healthy lifestyle
, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation can promote emotional stability. -
Consult an expert
: “If mood swings are severe or disrupt daily life, consult with your healthcare provider. Together, you can determine the best course of action, whether that’s switching pills or exploring other methods of birth control.”
When to seek help
Mood swings are often manageable, but it’s important to know when they require medical attention. “If emotional changes turn into severe anxiety, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, seek help immediately,” explains Dr. Khandelwal. Hormonal birth control can sometimes worsen underlying mental health issues.
Conclusion
While birth control pills remain a safe and effective option for many, it’s important to understand their potential side effects, including mood swings. With time, lifestyle changes, or a change in birth control, most people can find a method that works for their physical and mental health.
“Open communication with your doctor is key,” emphasizes Dr. Khandelwal. “Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns or explore alternative options.” There is always a solution that will fit your unique needs.
