Writer: Dr. Diana Rangaves
Are changes in your mood or body weight making you wonder if birth control increases estrogen?
The truth is, it depends on the type of birth control you're using. If you're on a combined hormonal contraceptive like the pill or patch, it can raise estrogen levels in your body.[1] However, if you're using a non-hormonal method like a copper IUD or condoms, you don't have to worry about estrogen at all.
This article will look at how different birth control methods affect hormone levels, what estrogen does in your body, signs that your estrogen might be elevated due to birth control, and how to choose the option that works best for you.
So, does birth control increase estrogen? Let's dive in.
Understanding Estrogen and Its Role
Estrogen is one of the primary sex hormones in people assigned female at birth. [1] It plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting reproductive health, and maintaining functions in other parts of the body, including the brain, bones, and skin. [2]
Throughout the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels naturally rise and fall. [3] They're typically at their highest just before ovulation and lower during menstruation. [3] These shifts help trigger important changes in the body, such as thickening the uterine lining in preparation for a possible pregnancy. [1]
Estrogen doesn't just affect your reproductive system. It also influences your mood, energy levels, appetite, and even how your body stores fat. [4] Too much or too little estrogen can lead to symptoms like irregular periods, mood swings, headaches, or fatigue. [4]
When you use hormonal birth control, you're altering your body's natural hormone levels. That's why understanding how estrogen works is key to recognizing whether certain symptoms might be linked to your contraceptive method.
Types of Birth Control and Their Hormonal Impact
Not all birth control methods affect your body the same way. The impact largely depends on whether the birth control method is hormonal or non-hormonal, and what kind of hormones it contains.
Combined Hormonal Contraceptives
These methods include the birth control pill and the patch. They contain both estrogen and progestin, synthetic versions of the hormones your body naturally produces. Their main job is to stop ovulation, but they also thicken cervical mucus and thin the uterine lining to help prevent pregnancy. [1]
Since these methods introduce external estrogen, they can raise overall estrogen levels in your body. This can sometimes lead to side effects like breast tenderness, nausea, or mood changes. [1]
Progestin-Only Methods
These include the mini-pill and the hormonal IUD. They do not contain estrogen, making them a suitable option for people who are sensitive to estrogen or have health conditions that make estrogen-containing methods risky. [5]
These options don't increase estrogen levels, and in some cases, they may even suppress natural estrogen production slightly by preventing ovulation.
Non-Hormonal Methods
If you want to avoid hormones in birth control, non-hormonal methods like the copper IUD, condoms, or fertility awareness methods are your go-to choices. These do not interfere with your hormonal balance at all.
Signs of Elevated Estrogen From Birth Control
If you're using a birth control method that contains estrogen, you might notice some changes in how you feel. While many people tolerate these methods well, others may experience signs that their estrogen levels are higher than usual.
Here are some common symptoms that could indicate elevated estrogen levels [1]:
- Breast tenderness or swelling: Estrogen can cause the breast tissue to become more sensitive or feel fuller.
- Bloating: Increased estrogen can make you feel puffy or swollen, especially around your abdomen.
- Mood swings or irritability: Estrogen influences neurotransmitters in the brain, like serotonin, which can impact your mood.
- Nausea: Especially when starting a new method, higher estrogen levels may lead to mild nausea.
- Headaches or migraines: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly involving estrogen, are a known trigger for some people.
- Irregular spotting or heavy periods: In some cases, an imbalance between estrogen and progestin can affect bleeding patterns.
These symptoms are typically more noticeable in the first few months of starting a new hormonal method. However, if the symptoms persist or become severe, it might be a sign that your current birth control isn't the best fit for your body.
It's always a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider if you're concerned about side effects. They can help determine whether your symptoms are related to estrogen and suggest alternative options that may work better for you.
Choosing the Right Birth Control for Your Body
Finding the right birth control isn't just about preventing pregnancy, it's also about choosing a method that works in harmony with your body, lifestyle, and health needs.
Since different methods affect estrogen levels in various ways, it's important to consider how your body responds to hormones.
If you've experienced side effects that suggest estrogen sensitivity, like migraines, mood swings, or breast tenderness, you might do better with a progestin-only method or a non-hormonal option.
On the other hand, if you've used combined hormonal contraceptives without any issues, you may find those methods convenient and effective.
Here are a few key factors to think about when choosing [1]:
- Health history: Certain conditions, like high blood pressure or a history of blood clots, may rule out estrogen-containing methods.
- Sensitivity to hormones: If you've had strong side effects in the past, talk to your healthcare provider about low-dose or hormone-free options.
- Lifestyle: If you don't want to remember a daily pill, long-acting options like the implant, IUD, or shot may be better suited for you.
- Fertility goals: Consider how quickly you might want to become pregnant after stopping birth control.
It may take some trial and error to find the right method, and that's completely normal. The goal is to find a form of contraception that keeps you protected and feels comfortable. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider about what option might be right for you.
Take Control of Your Hormonal Health
While birth control manages your reproductive choices, understanding how it affects your hormones is key to feeling your best self.
Since everybody responds differently, knowing your hormone levels can help you make more informed decisions.
If you're experiencing symptoms that make you question whether your birth control is affecting your estrogen, you don’t have to guess. The Everlywell Women’s Health Test offers a comprehensive look at 11 key hormones that influence mood, energy, and menstrual health.
For a broader picture of your overall well-being, including hormone function, inflammation, heart health, and more, consider the Everlywell 360 Full Body Test to create a personalized health plan tailored to your body’s unique needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does all birth control increase estrogen levels?
No. Only combined hormonal birth control methods, like the pill or patch, contain estrogen. [1] Progestin-only methods and non-hormonal options (like the copper IUD or condoms) do not increase estrogen levels.
What are the signs that my estrogen is too high from birth control?
Common signs include bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, nausea, headaches, and irregular bleeding. [1] These symptoms often improve after a few months, but persistent issues may signal the need for a different method.
Can I switch birth control if I suspect high estrogen symptoms?
Yes, you can. Talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They may recommend switching to a progestin-only or non-hormonal method, or adjusting your current dose.
How can I check my estrogen levels at home?
You can use an at-home hormone test like the Everlywell women's fertility test, which measures estradiol (a key form of estrogen) along with other hormones that influence fertility and menstrual health.
Can birth control affect my natural hormone production long-term?
In most cases, hormonal birth control doesn't cause permanent changes to your natural hormone production. Your body typically returns to its normal cycle within a few weeks to months after stopping. However, if you had underlying hormonal imbalances before starting birth control, they may resurface once you stop. [3]