Contraceptive pills are used by many women to prevent pregnancy and regulate their menstrual cycles. However, it is not uncommon for women to experience missed or irregular periods while on birth control. In this article, we will look at the five most common reasons why you might have missed a period while taking birth control pills. We will also provide advice on what steps you should take if you miss a period due to any of these causes.
Reasons why you may have missed your periods while on birth control
In addition to using birth control, there are several other causes for missed periods; here are a few common ones. Let’s understand:
• Certain tablets
Periods might cease or become irregular with certain birth control tablets. Also, seasonal medications may reduce menstruation to four times a year. The effects of medication on various people might be variable. A missing period on birth control may result from several factors, including the introduction of a new medication and the subsequent adjustment period required by the body.
• Stress
The mind and body are vulnerable to the effects of stress that can cause missed periods on birth control. The hypothalamus may become dysfunctional under extreme stress. Hypothalamus is that region of the brain that is responsible for hormone balance. If you are having trouble getting your period to start again, identifying the cause of your stress and taking steps to reduce it may be helpful.
• Reduced weight
Lighter or missed periods are a common side effect of massive weight reduction. Some hormone levels might be raised when fat is present in the body. Your hormone levels will change if you lose a lot of weight quickly. This is a common cause of menstrual irregularity and may be at the root of a missing period when using birth control pills.
• Exercise
Overtraining may also cause hormonal imbalances and the cessation of menstruation. Moderate physical activity is essential for good health. In most cases, this is due to increased training intensity, as with professional dancers and athletes. Long-distance runners who compete for fun may also be affected.
• Pregnancy
A no period while on birth control might indicate pregnancy. The success rate of oral contraceptives is just under 10%. You should consider getting a pregnancy test or seeing a medical professional if you haven’t had your period in a while and have certain pregnancy symptoms.
Does a missed period mean pregnancy?
One of the many possible explanations for missed menstruation is pregnancy. You risk becoming pregnant even if you take your birth control pill exactly as directed. Every sexually active person who has missed their period or has just minimal spotting must get a pregnancy test or see a medical professional. Skipping a tablet increases a woman’s chances of getting pregnant. Most of these pregnancies happen after the patient has skipped two or more consecutive doses.
The following are some more early warning indicators of pregnancy:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tenderness in the breasts
- A lack of energy and laziness
- Discomfort in the lower back
- Increased frequency of urination
It may take up to a week following a missing period for some of these symptoms to occur.
Conclusion
Missing periods while on birth control is a common issue. It’s important to pay attention to your body and talk to your doctor if you notice something unusual or concerning. Making sure you’re taking the right dose, taking the medications correctly, and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits are all ways to help ensure that your birth control will be as effective as possible in preventing pregnancy. With the right precautions and support from healthcare professionals, you can successfully use birth control and feel confident knowing that it’s helping keep you safe.
FAQs
1. What causes a missed period on birth control?
No period after stopping birth control or any delay can also occur. Periods stopping or becoming irregular might also result from stress, excessive activity, poor eating habits, or hormone imbalances. A missing period may indicate a more serious health issue for certain women.
2. When should I worry about a missed period on the pill?
The birth control pill effectiveness might cause you to temporarily stop having your period. In most cases, this is nothing to worry about. The progestogen-only pill (POP), the intrauterine system (IUS), and contraceptive injections have all been linked to the complete cessation of menstruation in certain women.
3. Is it unusual to miss a period on birth control?
Taking birth control tablets as directed and yet missing your period is typically not cause for concern. If you’re worried about becoming pregnant, you should talk to your medical professional or get a home pregnancy test. Changing certain aspects of one’s routine may often restore menstruation for some women.
4. Is it unusual to miss a period while on birth control?
Different kinds include various hormone combinations that may affect menstruation. It’s normal for women on birth control to miss periods.
5. Why did I miss my period on birth control?
There are four potential causes of a missed period, an early or delayed period on birth control: the hormonal birth control system, stress (emotional or physical), gynecological issues, and pregnancy. Nonetheless, you must see your medical professional for concerns about a prospective pregnancy or other health problems.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare here.