If you're taking contraceptives and feeling sad, it's NOT just in your head.

Have you ever felt a change in your mood after starting birth control? Have you felt more anxious, sad, or even lost interest in activities you used to enjoy? If so, it's not just in your head.

The relationship between hormonal contraceptives and serotonin, the famous "happiness hormone," is a topic that isn’t widely discussed but affects many women.

How does birth control affect your brain?

Hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill, vaginal ring, or patch, work by regulating estrogen and progesterone levels in your body to prevent ovulation. But here’s the important detail: these hormones also influence serotonin production, the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood.

When serotonin levels drop, it’s common to experience symptoms such as:

-Anxiety or panic attacks.

-Episodes of sadness without an apparent reason.

-Difficulty enjoying things as before.

-Fatigue or lack of energy.

-Sleep problems.

Not all women experience these changes, but if you’ve noticed a shift in your emotional well-being since starting birth control, it’s worth paying attention and consulting a specialist.

You are not alone: many women have experienced this.

Even though many women report emotional changes while taking birth control, this side effect is not always discussed during medical consultations. In fact, for a long time, the link between contraceptives and mental health was overlooked. However, recent studies have shown that some women are at a higher risk of developing symptoms of anxiety or depression while using them, especially teenagers and those with a history of hormonal sensitivity.

The problem is that, without knowing about this connection, many women feel confused or even guilty about how they feel. They wonder if it’s just "in their head" or if they’re overreacting. But the reality is that birth control can affect your brain chemistry.

What can you do if you feel this way?

If you have noticed mood changes since starting birth control, here are some things you can do:

1. Talk to your doctor: Don’t ignore what you’re feeling. Consult a professional to explore other contraceptive options that may be more suitable for you.

2. Explore alternatives: There are non-hormonal contraceptive methods, such as the copper IUD, condoms, or cycle tracking, which may be an option if you want to avoid the impact of hormones on your body. But remember, always consult a specialist.

3. Listen to your body: Sometimes, we get used to feeling unwell without realizing that there’s something we can change. If you notice a significant shift in your mood, take it seriously.

4. Seek support from other women: Talking to friends or reading testimonials online can help you understand that you are not alone and that many others are experiencing similar situations.

The ideal contraceptive is the one that makes you feel good.

Birth control should not make you feel bad. While hormonal contraceptives have been a revolutionary advancement in women's lives, not everyone reacts to them in the same way. And that’s okay. The important thing is to understand how they affect your body and find the method that best suits you.

If you’ve noticed changes in your mood and think they might be related to your contraceptive, don’t hesitate to look into it. Listening to your body is essential, and consulting with a specialist can help you find the best option for your well-being. 💜

At Mater Clinic, we understand that every woman is unique and that contraceptive methods do not affect everyone in the same way. That’s why our team of specialists is here to guide you and help you find the most suitable option for you, always prioritizing your physical and emotional well-being.

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You shouldn’t normalize feeling sad, anxious, or different without an apparent reason. If you suspect that your contraceptive might be affecting your mood, at Mater Clinic, we can offer you a personalized consultation to evaluate your situation and explore alternatives that better suit your body and lifestyle. Remember, your overall health is the most important thing, and there are always options that can make you feel better. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experts by writing to us on WhatsApp at 645 096 548 or via email at care@mater.clinic.