Birth Control Cessation: Lowering Blood Pressure Timeline

If you're concerned about high blood pressure and are taking birth control, it's important to know that certain types of birth control containing the hormone estrogen can lead to an increase in blood pressure. This is because estrogen affects the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure, and can cause fluid retention and increased angiotensinogen production in the liver. If you've noticed a rise in your blood pressure while on birth control, don't worry—stopping birth control will likely cause your blood pressure to return to previous levels within two to three months.

Birth control with estrogen can increase blood pressure

The risk of combined oral contraceptives increasing blood pressure is about 5% to 10% of patients. For those who do experience increased blood pressure, the change is typically small, with an average increase of 3 to 5 mmHg systolic and 1 to 2 mmHg diastolic. However, this can vary, and some individuals may see a larger increase in blood pressure. It is important to note that even a small increase in blood pressure can have health implications.

Higher-dose birth control pills are more likely to increase blood pressure, while lower-dose pills may have less impact. The vaginal ring and hormonal skin patch may also affect blood pressure, but more research is needed to confirm this. Currently, the risks associated with these methods are thought to be similar to those of combination hormonal birth control pills.

There is an exception to the rule: the hormone drospirenone. Drospirenone is a progestin found in some combination birth control pills, and it may slightly lower blood pressure. This is because drospirenone acts as a diuretic, which may curb estrogen's tendency to raise blood pressure.

If you are concerned about the impact of birth control on your blood pressure, it is important to speak with your doctor. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks of different contraceptive options and make a decision that is right for your individual needs.

If you decide to stop taking birth control containing estrogen, your blood pressure will typically return to previous levels within two to three months. This is because the increase in blood pressure caused by estrogen is temporary and can be reversed fairly quickly.

Birth control without estrogen

If you have high blood pressure, it's important to consult a doctor about the best course of action for your birth control. While stopping birth control can lower blood pressure, it's important to find alternative methods to prevent pregnancy. Here are some birth control options that do not contain estrogen:

The Mini Pill

The mini pill is a progestin-only pill, meaning it only contains synthetic progesterone. It works by thickening the mucus in the cervix, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus, and thinning the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg cannot attach. With perfect use, the mini pill is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it is important to take the pill at the same time every day, as missing or delaying doses can reduce its effectiveness.

Birth Control Shots

Birth control shots, also known as Depo-Provera or Sayana Press, are convenient and longer-lasting alternatives to daily pills. The injection is typically administered by a healthcare professional into fleshy parts of the body, such as the buttocks, thighs, upper arms, or abdomen. The shot is more than 99% effective with perfect use and can be given at any time during your cycle as long as you are not pregnant.

The Progestin Implant

The progestin implant, known as Nexplanon, is a small rod inserted into the upper arm by a healthcare provider. It continuously releases progestin into the body for up to three years, preventing pregnancy. This option is ideal for those who struggle to take a daily birth control pill, as it only requires a quick procedure once every three years.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus that release small amounts of progestin, providing contraceptive protection for three to five years. They are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with a 99% success rate in both perfect and typical use. However, they can cause some initial discomfort and cramping during and after insertion.

Hormone-Free Birth Control Options

If you want to avoid hormones altogether, there are several non-hormonal birth control methods available, including condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and the copper IUD. The copper IUD is highly effective, providing protection against pregnancy for up to 12 years after insertion. It works by releasing copper ions into the womb, making it harder for sperm to reach and survive in the womb.

Permanent Birth Control Methods

Permanent birth control methods, also known as sterilization, include tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men. These procedures are typically performed under anesthesia and are considered permanent, as the success rates for reversal can vary.

It is important to remember that everyone's medical history and preferences are unique, so consulting a doctor to discuss the best birth control options for your specific needs is essential.

High blood pressure and the risk of complications during pregnancy

High blood pressure, or hypertension, during pregnancy can be a serious issue for both mother and baby. It is diagnosed when a pregnant woman has a blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher on two separate occasions, at least four hours apart. This condition affects between 5% and 10% of pregnant women, a 25% increase over the past two decades.

The risks associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy include preeclampsia, eclampsia, stroke, placental abruption, premature birth, low birth weight, and even fetal death. Preeclampsia, a potentially severe condition, is characterised by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the mother's urine. It can lead to liver and kidney damage, as well as fluid accumulation in the lungs. Eclampsia is a life-threatening complication of preeclampsia, where the mother experiences seizures due to untreated or undertreated high blood pressure.

To manage high blood pressure during pregnancy, low-dose aspirin is often recommended for those at higher risk of preeclampsia. Blood pressure medications that are safe for pregnancy, such as labetalol and nifedipine, may also be prescribed. Additionally, frequent monitoring of blood pressure and urine is necessary to ensure the condition doesn't advance to severe hypertension or other related complications.

It is important for pregnant women with high blood pressure to be closely monitored by their doctors and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as severe headaches, blurred vision, or sudden swelling of the hands and face occur.

While birth control methods containing estrogen can potentially lead to an increase in blood pressure, discontinuing these methods can result in a reversal of this effect. Most individuals who stop taking estrogen-containing birth control will see their blood pressure return to previous levels within two to three months.

Lowering high blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Certain birth control methods that contain estrogen can contribute to an increase in blood pressure, especially in those already at risk. The good news is that there are alternative birth control options available that do not affect blood pressure. Additionally, stopping estrogen-containing birth control can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.

The Link Between Birth Control and Blood Pressure

Birth control methods that contain synthetic estrogen may raise your blood pressure. These include combined hormonal birth control pills, the vaginal ring, and the hormonal skin patch. This is because estrogen can affect the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure, and can cause fluid retention and increased production of angiotensinogen in the liver, potentially leading to elevated blood pressure. However, the risk of combined oral contraceptives increasing blood pressure is relatively low, at about 5-10% of patients.

Alternative Birth Control Options

If you have high blood pressure or are concerned about the potential impact of hormonal birth control on your blood pressure, there are alternative options available. Estrogen-free forms of hormonal birth control contain progestin, including progestin-only pills (also known as the "mini-pill"), the progestin-only shot (Depo-Provera), and the progestin implant (Nexplanon). There are also several birth control methods that are completely hormone-free, such as permanent sterilization for those who have completed childbearing, or non-hormonal barrier methods like condoms, cervical caps, and diaphragms.

Lowering Blood Pressure After Stopping Birth Control

If your blood pressure has risen while taking birth control, it is important to know that this change is usually temporary. In most cases, stopping estrogen-containing birth control will cause blood pressure to return to previous levels within two to three months. Most people whose blood pressure goes up while taking birth control see it return to normal within about three months of stopping.

Talking to Your Doctor

It is important to consult your doctor when making decisions about birth control and managing high blood pressure. Your doctor can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of different birth control methods and make recommendations based on your individual health history and preferences. Additionally, if you have high blood pressure, your doctor can provide guidance on how to lower it through medication and lifestyle changes.

Birth control methods that don't impact blood pressure

If you're taking birth control and are concerned about high blood pressure, it's important to consult a doctor. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action, taking into account your medical history, preferences, and lifestyle.

Progestin-only methods

• Progestin-only pills (also known as the "mini-pill")
• Progestin-only shots, such as Depo-Provera
• Progestin implants, like Nexplanon
• Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), including Mirena, Kyleena, and Skyla

Non-hormonal methods

• Permanent sterilization for those who have completed childbearing
• Condoms for men or women
• Cervical cap
• Diaphragm

It's worth noting that non-hormonal barrier methods like condoms, cervical caps, and diaphragms have a higher failure rate compared to hormonal methods. Therefore, it's essential to weigh the risks of an unplanned pregnancy with your high blood pressure.

Additionally, if you are taking birth control and experience an increase in blood pressure, discontinuing the use of oral contraceptives can be an effective intervention to lower blood pressure. Most people who stop taking birth control pills see their blood pressure return to normal within about 2 to 3 months.

Frequently asked questions