Can Birth Control Pills Make You Tired? Fatigue as a Side Effect

Can Birth Control Pills Make You Tired?

Feeling constantly drained, even after a full night's sleep? Birth control pills may be to blame. Hormonal contraceptives can cause fatigue in some women due to their effects on the body. Read on to learn why birth control pills can make you tired, and what you can do about it.

How Hormonal Birth Control Works

Birth control pills contain synthetic estrogen and progestin, which prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to block sperm. This alters your natural hormonal balance. Estrogen rises and falls during your menstrual cycle. Progestin peaks after ovulation. The synthetic versions don't necessarily replicate your natural rhythm.

These hormone fluctuations can create side effects like fatigue. Your body has to adjust to the new hormonal environment. For some women this adjustment period lasts a few months. But others continue to experience tiredness and low energy while taking birth control pills long term.

Reasons Birth Control Causes Fatigue

There are several reasons why hormonal birth control may leave you feeling drained:

• Altered sleep patterns: Hormone changes can disrupt your circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle.
• Nutrient deficiencies: Birth control can deplete nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc which give you energy.
• Lower iron levels: The pill may decrease iron absorption leading to anemia and fatigue.
• Elevated inflammation: Estrogen can raise inflammation which is tiring for the body to fight off.
• Hormone imbalance: Too much or too little estrogen and progestin can cause thyroid dysfunction and fatigue.

Types of Birth Control Most Linked to Fatigue

Any birth control with estrogen, and some progestin-only pills, may potentially cause exhaustion. But certain types appear more likely to trigger tiredness than others:

• Combination birth control pills: The estrogen and progestin together alter your hormone balance.
• Extended cycle pills: Taking active pills longer with fewer placebo breaks disrupts your cycle.
• High dose pills: The higher levels of hormones lead to more side effects.
• Monophasic pills: Having the same dose of hormones monthly is less natural.

The first 3-6 months on birth control pills seem to be when side effects like fatigue are most common as your body adjusts. But symptoms can come and go over time.

Other Common Birth Control Side Effects

Along with tiredness and low energy, birth control pills may also cause:

• Headaches and migraines
• Nausea
• Bloating and weight gain
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes and depression
• Lower libido

These side effects tend to be temporary for most women. But if they are ongoing and impact your quality of life, consult your gynecologist.

Who is Most Affected?

Birth control fatigue seems more likely to occur in:

• Teenagers - due to hormonal changes from puberty.
• New pill users - it takes time to adjust.
• Women over 35 - natural hormones start to shift.
• Those with thyroid issues - birth control impacts thyroid function.
• People deficient in magnesium, B vitamins and iron.
• Individuals under high stress - hormones become imbalanced.

Tips to Combat Birth Control Fatigue

If your birth control pill is making you constantly tired, there are some steps you can take to try to regain your energy:

• Take a pill with less/different hormones: Discuss options with your doctor.
• Try a non-hormonal IUD or barrier method: This eliminates synthetic hormone effects.
• Switch brands: A different pill formulation may work better with your body.
• Adjust timing: Take your pill before bed to minimize daytime fatigue.
• Have a pill-free week: Let your body reset itself hormone-wise.
• Improve sleep habits: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly.
• Reduce stress: High cortisol worsens hormone imbalance and fatigue.
• Exercise and hydrate: This boosts energy levels.
• Take supplements: Iron, magnesium, B vitamins can offset deficiencies.

When to See Your Doctor

Make an appointment with your gynecologist or healthcare provider if:

• Fatigue interferes with your daily life for more than 2-3 months.
• You feel depressed, anxious, or experience mood swings.
• Symptoms don't improve after switching birth control brands/types.
• You feel foggy or have trouble concentrating.
• Fatigue is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Your doctor can check for underlying issues like thyroid disorder, iron deficiency anemia or vitamin deficiencies that may worsen side effects of birth control.

The Bottom Line

It's common for birth control pills to cause fatigue, especially when first starting. Give your body time to adjust to the influx of synthetic hormones. Make sure you get enough sleep, nutrition, and self-care. If fatigue persists beyond 3 months or really impacts your quality of life, consult your doctor about adjusting your birth control method.

Don't forget - millions of women take hormonal contraceptives with no or minimal side effects. Don't hesitate to call your healthcare provider if your birth control pill makes you tired, but recognize that some adjustment period is normal. Finding the right birth control is all about balancing risks, benefits, and personal preferences.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.