Mouth ulcers, often referred to as canker sores, are common, painful sores in the mouth. They are not contagious and typically present as a white or yellowish center with a red border. Birth control introduces synthetic hormones into the body. This article explores a possible connection between birth control use and these oral sores.
The Potential Connection
While mouth ulcers are a common oral complaint, a direct causal link between birth control and their occurrence is not widely recognized. Some individuals using birth control report experiencing mouth ulcers, suggesting a possible correlation linked to the hormonal fluctuations. Research on this direct link remains limited, and a definitive connection to canker sore development is not clearly established. Some studies suggest oral ulcers can be a side effect, with one noting that 10.6% of women using oral contraceptives reported them.
Some women experience mouth ulcers during their natural menstrual cycle, particularly when progesterone levels peak. This suggests synthetic hormones in birth control, which mimic natural hormonal changes, could similarly influence oral health for some individuals. While newer birth control formulations often contain lower concentrations of hormones, potentially lessening inflammatory responses, the overall impact on oral tissues can vary among users.
How Hormones Affect Oral Tissues
The synthetic hormones in birth control, primarily estrogen and progestin, can influence the oral environment. These hormones affect blood supply to the gums and how the body’s tissues respond to irritants like plaque. Increased levels of these hormones can lead to heightened blood flow to the gums, making them more sensitive and prone to inflammation. This increased sensitivity can sometimes manifest as swollen, red, or bleeding gums, which are signs of gingivitis.
Beyond gum sensitivity, hormonal changes might also influence the mucosal lining of the mouth, potentially altering its integrity or immune response. The oral mucosa contains estrogen receptors, meaning it can be directly affected by variations in hormone levels. While a direct mechanism for ulcer formation is not fully understood, these hormonal influences could contribute to an environment where mouth ulcers are more likely to develop in susceptible individuals.
Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers are often caused by factors unrelated to birth control. Physical injury is a common cause, such as accidentally biting the cheek or tongue, vigorous brushing, or irritation from dental work or ill-fitting dentures. Stress and lack of sleep also contribute to these sores.
Other common causes of mouth ulcers include:
- Dietary factors, such as acidic foods like citrus fruits, spicy dishes, or chocolate.
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin B, iron, and folic acid.
- Some toothpastes containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which may prolong healing or contribute to ulcer formation.
- Viral infections like herpes simplex virus, which cause cold sores that can be confused with mouth ulcers.
- Underlying medical conditions, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, Behcet’s disease, or conditions affecting the immune system.
What to Do About Mouth Ulcers
Several self-care measures can help manage discomfort and promote healing for mouth ulcers. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and regular flossing, is important. Avoiding irritating foods and beverages, such as spicy, acidic, or hot items, can prevent further discomfort. Over-the-counter remedies like pain-relief gels, antiseptic mouthwashes, or rinses can provide symptomatic relief and help prevent secondary infections.
Keeping the mouth hydrated by drinking water can also be beneficial. If you suspect birth control might be contributing to your mouth ulcers, discuss this with your healthcare provider before making any medication changes. Seek medical attention if an ulcer is persistent (lasting over two to three weeks), unusually painful, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, or skin rashes. A healthcare professional can help identify the cause and recommend treatment, which may include prescription medications like topical corticosteroids or systemic agents.