If you went on hormonal birth control as a teenager and later stopped taking it (in your 20s or 30s), only to discover irregular periods, you are not alone. Many women find themselves in this situation, which often raises bigger questions: Is there a connection between birth control and menstrual irregularities? Could hormonal contraception somehow be linked to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Recently, there’s been growing speculation, especially on social media, about whether birth control can cause PCOS. But is this theory grounded in actual evidence, or is it just another Internet myth that needs debunking? In this article, we’ll explore whether birth control plays a role in the development of PCOS and clear up some widespread misconceptions.
But first, what is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects 8–13% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular periods, elevated levels of androgens (male sex hormones), and small cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can cause a variety of symptoms, including acne, unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), weight gain, and even infertility. But despite being so prevalent, up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed.
While PCOS is a complex disorder with no single known cause, one thing is for certain: birth control does not cause PCOS. In fact, hormonal contraceptives are often used to manage many of the unpleasant symptoms associated with the condition.
The role of hormonal birth control in PCOS management
Rather than causing PCOS, hormonal birth control pills — especially those that contain both estrogen and progestin — are often prescribed to help regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce androgen levels, and control physical symptoms in those with PCOS.
One study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that combined oral contraceptives significantly reduced testosterone levels and improved menstrual regularity in women with PCOS. Lower testosterone levels can help alleviate the common symptoms of PCOS, such as excess hair growth and acne, making hormonal birth control an essential part of treatment for many people.
Still, it’s important to keep in mind that while hormonal birth control can help manage PCOS symptoms, it cannot cure the condition. PCOS is a chronic disorder, and birth control is often part of a long-term management strategy.
Why do some people think birth control causes PCOS?
The misconception that birth control might cause PCOS likely stems from the timing of certain symptoms appearing when a woman stops taking hormonal contraception. Women who discontinue birth control may notice changes such as irregular periods, acne, or other symptoms that resemble PCOS, and this overlap can lead to confusion.
Here's what is actually happening: When you’re on hormonal birth control, your body’s natural hormone production is suppressed, and ovulation is controlled. Once you stop taking the pill, it can take a few months for your body to resume its normal hormone production and ovulation. During this adjustment period, you might experience irregular periods, acne breakouts, or other symptoms that mimic PCOS.
However, it's crucial to understand that these symptoms are often temporary and don’t mean you’ve developed PCOS. For most women, their periods and hormones will regulate within several months of stopping birth control.
Addressing concerns about birth control and fertility
In today’s digital age, social media plays a significant role in spreading information — and misinformation — about women's health topics. And the potential long-term effects of hormonal birth control are a common concern, particularly regarding fertility and overall health. A 2023 study of around 2,000 college students found that nearly 69% of participants were worried that birth control could affect their future fertility. However, these fears are largely unfounded.
While birth control is designed to temporarily prevent pregnancy by halting ovulation, there is no evidence to suggest that it causes long-term fertility issues. Once you stop taking hormonal contraception, most women find that their menstrual cycles return to normal (usually within a few months) and fertility is restored.
When to seek medical attention for possible PCOS
If more than three months pass and you continue to experience irregular periods or other symptoms, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. In some cases, PCOS may have been present before starting birth control, but the symptoms were masked by the effects of the contraceptive. When the hormonal regulation provided by birth control is removed, the underlying condition may become more apparent.
If you’ve recently stopped taking birth control and are concerned about menstrual irregularities or other PCOS-like symptoms, your doctor can run tests to check for PCOS, including hormone level evaluations and ultrasounds to look for cysts on the ovaries. They can also help you develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your symptoms and address any concerns you have about fertility or long-term health.
Whether you have PCOS or not, remember this: there is nothing you could have done to cause this (birth control or otherwise!), and there are solutions available to help get your cycle back on track. Best of luck!
Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Rescripted.