If you take an oral contraceptive, be sure to monitor yourself for symptoms of vitamin deficiency.

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Oral contraceptives, often to referred to as “the pill,” are very effective and provide many benefits. However, it is important to know the side effects of birth control pills to stay safe and healthy if you choose to take them. Oral contraceptives can deplete your body of nutrients and can lead to vitamin B deficiency if you aren’t careful.

Side Effects of Birth Control Include Lower Levels of B Vitamins

Users of oral contraceptives have been shown to have lower B₆, B₁₂, and folate compared to women who do not use these contraceptives._[1,2,3] Some researchers suggest that the lower levels of B₆ seen in women using oral contraceptives play a role in the increased risk of thromboembolism (blood clots) seen in women taking birth control pills._[2]

B vitamins affect metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, as well as the synthesis of DNA, neurotransmitters, and other vital compounds. Deficiency in a certain B vitamin will result in a unique set of symptoms. For example, low folate during pregnancy can cause neural defects in infants; B₁₂ deficiency results in higher risk for neurologic disorders; and B₆ deficiency can cause anemia, depression, and confusion._[1]

Additional Vitamin Deficiencies

Studies suggest that other nutrients can also be depleted in oral contraceptive users, including vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, zinc, and coenzyme Q._[3,4] One study found that women using hormonal contraception also had lower total antioxidant capacity._[4]

Protecting Yourself From Nutrient Depletion

If you take an oral contraceptive, be sure to monitor yourself for symptoms of vitamin deficiency such as weakness, fatigue, difficulty walking, and pale or yellow skin, and consider having your doctor check your vitamin B levels. Monitor yourself for other birth control side effects such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, decreased libido, or depression.

To make sure you are getting plenty of B vitamins, eat a wholesome diet full of leafy greens, beans, whole grains, and seafood. If you want to take a supplement, you have the option of either a complex consisting of all of the B vitamins, or specific types, such as B₆ or B₁₂. For general health, try a high quality B complex. Recommended dosages of B-vitamins vary depending on the person and whether or not they are deficient, so consult your doctor before choosing a supplement.

Share Your Experience

Have you experienced a B-vitamin deficiency or other side effects of birth control pills?

[1] Nutrients. 2013 Sep 16;5(9):3634-45.

[2] Thromb Res. 2003;112(1-2):37-41.

[3] Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2013 Jul;17(13):1804-13.

[4] Obstet Gynecol Int. 2010;2010. pii: 925635.

Originally published in 2014, this post has been updated.