Can birth control pills stop periods? Do you need to be scared?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

The pill, often known as an oral contraceptive pill (OCP), is a hormonal contraceptive that is used to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The pills oestrogen and progestin hormones change the levels of hormones that must be sustained in order to become pregnant. You must have wondered if the birth control pills stop periods? OCPs are prescribed pills that, for optimal effects, should be taken once daily and at the exact same time each day. Amenorrhea is the medical word for the lack of an anticipated menstruation. This is a typical side effect of birth control pills.

With continued usage of any birth control pill, your menstruation may be temporarily stopped or prevented because the medicines change your hormone levels. For some women, skipping their periods would mean avoiding the crippling cramps, bloating, and mood swings that occur at that time of the month. For many women, this can improve their quality of life and lessen the stress associated with expecting these symptoms. The menstrual cycle is back to normal when OCP use is stopped. The menstruation won't be permanently stopped by the tablet. The risks of taking the tablet continuously are the same as those of regular use, with the exception of a slightly elevated risk for blood clots and stroke. A doctor must be consulted to determine the best regimen. A missing period while using birth control might result from any of the following circumstances.

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• Stress

The menstrual cycle may lengthen or shorten as a result of stress. Sometimes, stress can make periods completely cease.

• Rapid loss of weight

Rapid weight loss can put a burden on the body. For instance, if a person is on an extreme diet, a deficiency in calories may stop the hormones needed for ovulation from being produced.

• Being fat or overweight

The quantity of oestrogen produced by obese women can be exceptionally high. This may result in irregular menstruation timing.

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• Overexercising

Intense exercise can overwork the body and perhaps cause hormonal imbalances. Periods may become irregular as a result.

Missed periods may indicate underlying health issues. Schedule a visit with a doctor if your periods become more irregular or cease suddenly.