Could your birth control be messing with your thyroid? If you’re a woman who’s been on birth control for years, it’s important that you know about the potential long-term effects. We want to raise awareness about the link between birth control and hypothyroidism so that you can ask the right questions and advocate for your health. Because the research (and clinical experience) is showing us something big: Long-term birth control use may significantly increase your risk of developing hypothyroidism.
@drautoimmune #birthcontrol can lead to #hypothyroidism and #hashimotos - #mthfr is a major #genetic #snp that can lead to #estrogendominance and major symptoms like #cramping #bloating #clotting #moodissues #heavyperoids #anemia ♬ original sound - drautoimmune
The Shocking Statistic: A 400% Increased Risk
You read that right. If you’ve been on long-term hormonal birth control, your risk of developing hypothyroidism could jump by up to 400%. That’s not just a minor concern—it’s a red flag.
Here’s why: hormonal birth control does more than control ovulation; it alters the body’s natural hormone balance, and that includes how the thyroid functions. Your thyroid impacts metabolism, energy levels, weight regulation, and even mood! Hypothyroidism, a condition where your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, is already the most common endocrine disorder in the U.S. Adding birth control into the mix could further increase your risk.
Read more about the thyroid and birth control connection!
MTHFR and Estrogen: The Genetic Piece of the Puzzle
Another factor to consider with birth control and hypothyroidism is genetics. Specifically, a gene called MTHFR plays a major role in how your body clears excess estrogen through a process called methylation.
If you have a mutation in this gene (which is more common than you might think, your body’s ability to process certain hormones like estrogen is compromised. Adding birth control to this mix can contribute to estrogen dominance and put even more stress on your thyroid.
What Can You Do? Seek the Root Cause
If you take birth control and still feel tired, anxious, or are gaining weight, these symptoms aren’t just in your head but could actually be signs of an underactive thyroid, and hormonal birth control could be one of the underlying causes.
Instead of switching birth control brands or adding more medications, dig deeper and start asking questions about your hormone health. Here are some things to ask and next steps to take.
- Could my birth control be causing a deeper, hormonal issue?
- Get your thyroid tested, not just for TSH, but a full thyroid panel.
- Should I be tested for the MTHFR gene mutation?
- Get MTHFR testing done if you’re struggling with hormonal issues.
- How can I better support my hormone health?
- Get support for overall wellness to improve diet, sleep, and stress.
At Dr. Autoimmune, we go beyond symptom control and hunt down the root causes. Learn more about our functional medicine approach!
Final Thoughts on Birth Control and Hypothyroidism
Birth control has its place in modern medicine, but it’s not necessarily a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re experiencing thyroid symptoms and are on long-term birth control, it might be time to investigate further into your hormone health. The connection between birth control and hypothyroidism is real, but the good news? You’re not stuck. With our personalized guidance, testing, and support, we can help balance your hormones so you feel like yourself again.
Want to read more about your hormones and thyroid? Perhaps you’ve just been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s or are dealing with the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Take a look at our guide to what to do after a Hashimoto’s diagnosis!
