Birth Control: How Does it Affect Cramping & What You Can Do About It?

For some, getting menstrual cramps while on birth control can be confusing. Isn’t birth control supposed to help with cramps? Birth control methods such as pills, patches, rings, or injections that contain hormones are designed to regulate menstrual cycles and lessen cramps. Nonetheless, it’s common for individuals to still have cramps despite using birth control.

Why do I experience cramps when on birth control?

Several factors contribute to cramping while on birth control. Hormonal changes from contraception can affect the uterine lining and menstrual cycle, leading to cramps. Birth control pills, whether combination pills with estrogen and progestin or the progestin-only mini-pill, work by altering hormone levels in the body. These hormones can thin the uterine lining, sometimes causing the uterus to contract and cause cramps. The hormones in birth control can also reduce prostaglandins, which usually cause the uterus to contract during menstruation. However, adjusting to these hormonal changes can still trigger cramps.

Starting a new birth control method can also cause cramping. When you start using birth control, your body requires a period to adapt to the altered hormone levels. This adjustment period, typically lasting about two to three months, can result in side effects like cramping. It’s common to wonder, “Why do I have cramps on birth control?” during this time.

Missing doses of birth control pills can disrupt hormone levels and lead to breakthrough bleeding and cramping. Consistency is key with oral contraceptives; taking them at the same time every day helps maintain steady hormone levels, reducing the risk of side effects like cramps. If you miss a pill, your hormone levels can fluctuate, leading to cramping as your body responds to these changes.

What can I do when this happens?

If you have cramps while taking active birth control pills, there are ways to alleviate them. You can use over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce uterine contractions and pain. Additionally, applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen or taking warm baths can also help relieve discomfort. The heat helps relax your uterine muscles, reducing cramping. This method is effective for immediate relief and can be used as needed.

Practicing relaxation techniques or gentle exercises can help ease cramping. Stress and tension can make pain worse, so activities like yoga, deep breathing exercises, or light stretching can help reduce stress and relax your muscles, making cramps less severe. Drinking enough water and maintaining a healthy diet can also improve your overall health and might lessen the intensity of cramps.

If cramps persist, it might be helpful to discuss with your healthcare provider about changing your birth control method. Different types or brands of birth control can affect people differently, and finding the right one for your body can make a big difference.

When do I see a doctor?

Most cramps on birth control aren’t serious, but if they’re really bad or won’t go away, you should see a doctor. Go to the doctor right away if your cramps come with heavy bleeding, dizziness, or fever. These could be signs of a bigger problem. Also, if your cramps suddenly get much worse or feel different than usual, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. And if you think you might be pregnant and have severe cramps, see a doctor as soon as possible. If your cramps interfere with your daily tasks, consult your doctor. They can assist you in understanding the issue and finding solutions to improve your well-being.

Can this be prevented?

While you can’t always stop cramps while on birth control, there are things you can do to make them better. Taking your pill at the same time every day helps keep your hormone levels steady, which might help lessen cramps. You can use reminders or a birth control app to help you remember. Talking to your doctor about your cramps can also help. They might suggest a different type of birth control that works better for you. Some people feel better switching from one kind of pill to another or trying a non-hormonal option like the copper IUD. Doing regular exercise, like yoga or gentle stretching, can help too. Eating healthy foods and drinking enough water can make a difference. And finding ways to relax, like meditation or doing things you enjoy, can also help ease cramps caused by stress.

What other side effects does birth control have?

Apart from cramping, birth control can have various side effects:

1. Nausea

Some people feel mild nausea when they first start taking birth control pills. Usually, this subsides after a brief period. Taking the pill with food or before bedtime can diminish this effect.

2. Headaches

Hormonal changes from birth control can cause headaches or migraines. Pills with lower hormone doses may help reduce headaches. If headaches persist, talk to your doctor about other options.

3. Breast tenderness

Birth control pills can make breasts feel tender or even slightly larger, especially when you first start taking them. Typically, this improves within a few weeks. Reducing caffeine and salt intake and wearing a supportive bra can alleviate the discomfort.

4. Changes in libido

Birth control hormones can affect your sex drive, either increasing or decreasing it. If this becomes a problem, talk to your doctor. They might suggest a different contraceptive method.

5. Spotting between periods

It’s common to have breakthrough bleeding or spotting, especially in the first few months of starting birth control. This usually stops over time. If it continues or gets heavy, see your doctor.

6. Weight gain

While studies don’t show a strong link between birth control and significant weight gain, some people notice fluid retention, especially around the breasts and hips. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help manage this.

7. Mood changes

Some people have mood swings or feel more depressed on birth control. If you have a history of depression, talk to your doctor. They might suggest trying a different type of birth control.

8. Missed periods

Sometimes, even if you take your pill correctly, you might skip a period. Stress, illness, or hormonal imbalances can cause this. If you miss a period, take a pregnancy test to be sure, and talk to your doctor if it keeps happening.

9. Vaginal discharge

You might notice changes in vaginal discharge, either more or less lubrication. This is usually harmless, but if you have concerns or signs of infection, see your doctor.

10. Visual changes with contact lenses

Birth control hormones can cause fluid retention that might change the shape of your corneas, making contact lenses uncomfortable. If you notice changes in your vision, see an eye doctor.

Birth control can make cramping worse

While birth control helps reduce menstrual cramps, some people still experience them due to hormonal changes, starting a new method, or missing doses. Proper management and medical advice can help you enjoy the benefits of birth control without discomfort. Understanding how birth control affects cramps allows for better decision-making and a more comfortable experience.