Birth control can cause nausea and, less commonly, vomiting. This side effect is particularly noted when starting a new birth control method or adjusting a formulation. While uncomfortable, it is often a temporary response as the body acclimates to hormonal changes.
Reasons for Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting from birth control are primarily due to hormones, especially estrogen. Estrogen can irritate the stomach lining and increase stomach acid, leading to queasiness. Both estrogen and progestin, found in many birth control methods, can also affect the digestive system by relaxing smooth muscles, potentially altering stomach emptying.
Different hormonal birth control types, including combined oral contraceptive pills, progestin-only pills, patches, or rings, vary in impact based on hormone dosages. Higher estrogen doses, like those in emergency contraceptive pills, are more likely to cause stomach upset than lower-dose formulations. The body adjusts to these hormonal shifts within three to four months, and nausea symptoms often subside.
Strategies for Managing Symptoms
To manage nausea or vomiting from birth control, consider these strategies:
- Take the birth control pill with food, such as after dinner or with a snack before bed.
- Eat light, plain foods like crackers, toast, or bananas, and avoid strong-flavored, overly sweet, greasy, or fried items.
- Stay well-hydrated by sipping cold liquids throughout the day.
- Use ginger (in tea, candied, or other forms) to help reduce nausea.
- Take over-the-counter antacid medications about 30 minutes before the pill.
- Avoid immediate activity after eating to aid digestion.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a doctor if nausea and vomiting persist or become severe, especially if it prevents you from consistently keeping down your birth control pills. Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, excessive thirst, or lightheadedness, also warrant medical attention. Seek professional advice if you experience new or worsening symptoms, or if you are concerned about birth control effectiveness due to repeated vomiting.
A healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, rule out other causes for nausea, and discuss alternative birth control methods or dosages. Options include switching to a pill with a lower estrogen dose or a progestin-only option, which are less likely to cause nausea. They may also consider prescribing anti-nausea medication if symptoms are disruptive.