Irregular periods can be linked to hormonal birth control, which can cause unpredictable periods until the body adjusts. Some forms of birth control can stop periods altogether, while others can lead to increased frequency or spotting. Changing birth control methods can also cause irregularities, but hormonal birth control can be prescribed to regulate heavy periods and cycles.
Irregular periods and birth control can be closely linked. When patients complain of irregular periods to their doctors, one of the first questions asked will be whether the patient has recently started, stopped, or changed hormonal birth control methods. Usually, the irregular periods associated with hormonal birth control are benign, although they can be destructive to the patient. If they become a persistent problem, evaluation may be recommended to explore other potential causes of irregular periods.
The menstrual cycle, which in most women lasts 28 days, is regulated by hormones in the body. When people introduce hormones in the form of a hormonal contraceptive, it’s not uncommon for irregular periods to occur. In some cases, the first few months on a new method can be marked by irregular and unpredictable periods until the body adjusts. Once someone is established on birth control, periods can actually become more regular, and sometimes hormonal birth control is prescribed as a treatment for people with irregular periods. Doctors are aware of the link between irregular periods and birth control and usually warn patients before starting new medications so they know what to expect.
Some forms of birth control can stop periods altogether. Others can lead to increased frequency of periods or spotting between periods, especially during the adjustment period. Women who are experiencing irregular periods on birth control may be advised to hang on for several months, if they can, to see if periods stabilize once the body gets used to the hormones. For some women, irregular periods and birth control are an ongoing issue and other contraceptive methods may need to be explored.
Changing birth control methods can lead to irregularities, as the new drug may contain different hormones in different dosages. While hormonal birth control is often thought of as interchangeable, there are several types available. Women struggling with irregular periods and birth control may want to try a different hormonal method before giving up hormonal birth control altogether.
In women with heavy periods and very irregular cycles, the prescription of hormonal contraceptives can sometimes regulate the menstrual cycle. Periods typically feel lighter on a set regimen, as well as fall at predictable intervals. This connection between irregular periods and birth control explains why doctors may sometimes prescribe hormonal birth control for people who aren’t sexually active; the goal in this case is not contraception, but the regulation of the menstrual cycle and the increase in patient comfort.
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