Here's what the research says.
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| | | | | Q | | How and why does birth control affect perimenopause symptoms? | | | | A | | Birth control can be helpful during perimenopause by providing hormonal regulation that eases many common symptoms. During perimenopause, the levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate and decline, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and irregular or heavy bleeding.
Hormonal contraceptives, especially low dose combined oral contraceptives, deliver a consistent and steady dose of estrogen and progestin, which can help stabilize hormonal shifts and reduce common symptoms.
Studies have shown that birth control can significantly improve vasomotor and other perimenopausal symptoms when compared to no treatment. Additionally, birth control pills offer the benefit of regulating menstrual cycles, helping to manage unpredictable or heavy bleeding by creating more predictable hormone patterns.
However, there are potential side effects, including breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, and increased blood pressure. People with certain health conditions, such as a history of blood clots, breast cancer, heart disease, or those who smoke, should avoid hormonal contraceptives. The choice of whether to use birth control during perimenopause should be personalized, taking into account individual symptoms and health risks. | | | | | | | | Has it been difficult to find high quality care for your menopause symptoms? Or do you have any other questions for our menopause experts? Let us know at menopause@healthline.com and the answer may be featured in an upcoming edition! | | | | | | | | | | | | | HEALTHY TIP | | Get a birth control prescription online | | Schedule a $25 online consultation with a US-licensed healthcare professional to start the process today. Pick up your prescription the same day. No insurance needed! | | | | | | | |  | | | | We may feature your messages to our inbox within our content. Please do not provide any personal identifiable information. Replies may be edited for length and clarity. For more, see our Privacy Policy. | Healthline, Optum Now, and their respective logo(s) are trademarks of RVO Health, LLC.
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