By A condition known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can make some women experience depression or get irritable before their monthly period. However, it is possible for hormonal contraceptives to trigger similar emotions. In fact, mood swings is one of the side effects of hormonal contraceptives. EVEN stated that most drug-related side effects are due to nutrient depletion. Some of the common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include;
- Crying spells
- Angry outbursts
- Depression
- Irritability
- Amnesia
- Aches and pains
- Tender breasts
- Irritability
- Headache
- Weight gain or bloating
Studies have shown that taking some drugs can cause the leaching of some vital nutrients in the body. To ensure biochemical balance, these nutrients need to be replaced fast. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on nutrition to do this job. Your best bet would be to opt for a supplement. But, what is the mechanism that makes birth control pills to affect your mood?
The link between birth control and mood
Since the introduction of birth control pills around 1960, women have complained about anxiety and depression. In fact, these side effects are the main reason why a good number of women quit taking these pills. The newer generation of birth control pills have lower hormone doses but this has not been able to completely eliminate the side effects.
Women feel best physically and emotionally when their estrogen level reaches its peak. For a typical 28-day menstrual cycle, this will happen on day 14. Birth control pills usually flatten that curve into an even line for the first 21 days and then the level plunges in the final seven days. There have been researches to unravel the relationship between hormone and mood. A few of those studies have shown a significant link between hormone concentration or combination and mood.
Are birth control pills safe?
Notwithstanding the side effects, birth control pills are safe. In fact, the FDA has approved the use of Ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone-containing hormonal birth control pills for the treatment of a more serious form of PMS called a premenstrual dysphoric disorder. However, it may take a few trial and error for your physician to unravel the right dosage and medication.
It is important to note that some of the side effects often reported by women are not as a result of the pills. The most implicated factors include;
- Stress from the need to remember to take the pills or to avoid pregnancy
- Preexisting anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems
Other side effects of birth control
Besides depression and anxiety, there are other side effects that are often reported with birth control pills. The side effect can differ depending on the pill that you use. This is because different pills usually have a different formulation. Other side effects that have been reported include;
Intermenstrual spotting
Normally, women experience discharge during their menses. However, the use of contraceptive pills can lead to bleeding between periods. Inasmuch as this is a common side effect, it is usually nothing to worry about.
How supplements can help improve mood while taking birth control
The use of birth control pills is known to deplete some of the nutrients that the body needs to regulate mood, sex drive, hormone balance, and so on. The right supplement will replenish your body with the right nutrients while taking birth control pills. EVEN stated that ‘Other Pill’ is vegan and Kosher.
Conclusion
Prescription medication like birth control often leads to the disruption of the body’s biochemical balance. This imbalance is usually the cause of side effects witnessed while taking pills. It is always good to consult with your doctor before taking supplements. This is because some compounds in the supplements may interfere with some drugs.
