Nurturing Your Hormonal Health: A Comprehensive Guide to Supporting Your Body While on Birth Control

For many women, oral birth control pills are a convenient and reliable method of contraception. However, it's essential to understand that these contraceptives can impact your hormonal balance. While birth control pills are prescribed for various reasons beyond contraception, it's crucial to be aware of the potential side effects and how they may not always address the root cause of your symptoms. We'll explore ways to support your hormones while on birth control, delve into nutrient depletion caused by these contraceptives, and discuss why hormone testing should be approached with caution while on birth control.

Nutrient Depletion Caused by Oral Birth Control:

Research has shown that oral birth control pills can deplete essential nutrients in your body. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that birth control pills can lead to a deficiency in key nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc [1]. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining hormonal balance, so their depletion can potentially exacerbate hormonal issues.

Addressing Symptoms at the Root Level: 

While birth control pills are prescribed for various non-contraceptive reasons, such as managing acne, regulating periods, or reducing menstrual pain, they may not always address the root cause of these symptoms. Instead, they often provide symptom relief without treating the underlying hormonal imbalances or other health conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

If you are using birth control primarily for non-contraceptive reasons, it's essential to have an open conversation with your healthcare provider about alternative treatments that target the root cause of your symptoms. Lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and natural supplements may be more suitable options to consider alongside or instead of birth control.

Hormone Testing While on Birth Control: 

Testing your hormone levels while on birth control can be misleading. Birth control pills contain synthetic hormones that can interfere with the accuracy of hormonal tests. These synthetic hormones can suppress your body's natural hormone production, making it difficult to assess your baseline hormonal status accurately.

To obtain reliable hormone test results, it is generally recommended to wait at least one full menstrual cycle after discontinuing birth control. This allows your body to return to its natural hormonal rhythm. However, the specific waiting period may vary depending on the type of birth control you were using and individual factors, so consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

While oral birth control can be a valuable tool for contraception and managing certain health issues, it's crucial to be aware of its potential impacts on nutrient depletion and its limitations in addressing the root causes of hormonal symptoms. To support your hormonal health while on birth control, consider incorporating a balanced diet, lifestyle modifications, and targeted nutritional supplements. When it comes to hormone testing, patience is key. Wait until you've been off birth control for an appropriate duration before seeking accurate hormone assessments. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

Remember, your hormonal health is a vital component of your overall well-being, and proactive self-care is essential to maintaining balance and vitality.

About the Author: Meet Dr. ZenAlissia Zenhausern- Pfeiffer, NMD, FABNE, (commonly known by her patients as Dr. Zen), is a licensed naturopathic doctor board certified in naturopathic endocrinology and the founder of NMD Wellness of Scottsdale, a premier naturopathic medical practice that focuses on helping women to take a proactive approach to their hormone and fertility health. Dr. Zen has been featured as a lead expert in Forbes, Shape Magazine, and Instyle and is deeply passionate about bridging the gap between traditional and natural medicine in the world of fertility. She works with a variety of hormone related issues including PCOS, endometriosis and unexplained infertility. Her goal is to help more women get back into the driver’s seat of their own health to make lasting transformational changes to their health to bring more cute and adorable babies into this world. Read More About Dr. Zen...