Birth Control Cessation: Migraines, Back Pain, And You

There are many factors that can cause low back pain and migraines. One factor that is less commonly known is the use of birth control. The hormones in birth control pills can affect the frequency and intensity of migraines. While some women experience an increase in migraines due to the drop in estrogen levels during the off periods, others find relief from migraines due to the steady estrogen levels maintained by the pill. Similarly, birth control may also be a factor in causing or relieving lower back pain.

Fluctuating hormones

One of the most common side effects of stopping birth control is headaches and migraines. This is due to the drop in estrogen that happens when stopping birth control. Estrogen levels drop right before a person's period begins, which is a common trigger for migraines. This is why people may experience migraines around the time of their period.

When stopping birth control, a person's natural hormonal processes will eventually resume. Typically, ovulation starts within a couple of weeks after stopping hormonal birth control. However, if a person takes a form of birth control that is designed to stay in the body for months, such as a progestin-only birth control injection, ovulation can be delayed for months after stopping.

The side effects of stopping birth control can vary from person to person and can include irregular periods, acne, breast changes, and even temporary hair loss. These effects usually lessen over time and should go away within a few months as the body adjusts its hormone levels. However, if symptoms persist or become worse, it is important to consult a doctor.

Irregular periods

The hormonal changes that occur when going off birth control can also cause spotting or bleeding about two days after stopping. This is called birth control withdrawal bleeding, and your body is adjusting to the changes in hormone levels. The next period after the withdrawal bleeding is technically your first period, and that could take some time to start up. Your cycle may be irregular, or your cycle length may have changed completely. In general, if your period is irregular three months after stopping any form of birth control, it's a good idea to check in with your doctor.

If you used hormonal birth control, then you may have a condition called post-pill amenorrhea, which prevents your body from creating the hormones it needs to ovulate and have a period. This doesn't happen to many people, and if you don't get your period, your doctor can recommend treatment to induce ovulation.

Headaches and migraines

Hormonal birth control can affect people in different ways, and it is important to be aware of the potential impact on headaches and migraines. Fluctuations in estrogen levels have been found to cause headaches in some individuals, and birth control pills can influence these levels. Here's what you need to know about the link between birth control and headaches or migraines:

The Link Between Birth Control and Headaches/Migraines

The estrogen in hormonal birth control may worsen or improve headaches, depending on the individual. People with migraines, especially those with aura, should be cautious when considering birth control options as there is an increased risk of stroke associated with certain types of birth control.

Birth Control and Headache Triggers

The hormones in birth control pills can affect estrogen levels, which are known triggers of headaches in some people. This is particularly relevant during the "placebo days" or "off periods" when there is a sudden drop in estrogen levels, which can trigger headaches, including migraines.

Impact of Birth Control on Migraine Risk

People with migraines who take birth control pills containing estrogen may have an increased risk of stroke. A review of studies found a small but notable increase in stroke risk among people with migraines using estrogen-containing birth control. However, a 2017 review suggested that only those with migraines with auras are at higher risk.

Alternative Birth Control Options

For individuals with migraines, it is crucial to weigh the risks and benefits of hormonal birth control. Many opt for progestin-only pills or pills with low estrogen levels, as these options do not carry the same stroke risk. Additionally, estrogen-free and low-estrogen pills may reduce the likelihood of other side effects.

Diagnosing Headaches and Choosing Birth Control

It is important to receive a professional diagnosis for headaches to determine the most suitable birth control option. Keeping a headache journal throughout the menstrual cycle can help identify patterns and triggers. This information can then be discussed with a healthcare provider to make an informed decision about birth control choices.

Blood pressure changes

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. However, the extent of the blood pressure increase is relatively low, with an average change of around 3 to 5 mmHg systolic and 1 to 2 mmHg diastolic. Nonetheless, it is important to monitor blood pressure levels, especially for those with a family history of high blood pressure, smokers, those over the age of 35, or those at increased risk for elevated blood pressure.

For individuals with blood pressure consistently above 160/100 mmHg, doctors typically advise against using estrogen-containing birth control methods due to the associated increased cardiovascular risks. These risks include kidney damage, headaches, migraines, stroke, and blood clotting. For those with milder hypertension, decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, considering the patient's age, cardiovascular risk factors, and the benefits versus potential risks of using estrogen-containing birth control.

If you stop taking birth control, your blood pressure will usually return to previous levels within two to three months. However, it is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your birth control regimen, as they can provide guidance based on your individual health status and needs.

It is worth noting that not all birth control methods affect blood pressure. Estrogen-free hormonal birth control options include progestin-only pills, shots, and implants. Additionally, there are also hormone-free birth control methods such as permanent sterilization for those who have completed childbearing.

Skin changes

The hormones in birth control pills can lower androgen levels, which contribute to skin oil production. When you stop taking birth control, your androgen levels may rise again, leading to acne flares, especially around the time of your period due to hormonal fluctuations. This is more likely if you had issues with acne before starting birth control.

Additionally, hormonal contraceptives suppress natural hormones, including testosterone. When you stop taking them, an "androgen rebound" can occur, where your body starts producing more testosterone. This increase in androgens can lead to more sebum production and acne.

Other skin changes that may occur after stopping birth control include increased breast tenderness and a slight reduction in breast size. Birth control pills often cause breast tenderness, especially combination pills containing estrogen and progesterone. This will usually go away once you stop taking the pill.

It's important to note that skin changes after stopping birth control can vary from person to person, and some people may not experience any skin changes at all. If you're concerned about potential skin changes, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.

Frequently asked questions