Can Birth Control Influence Your Mood? Here’s Why

If you’ve started hormonal birth control and suddenly feel more emotional, irritable, or down than usual, you’re not imagining it. While birth control offers effective pregnancy prevention and some added perks like clearer skin or lighter periods it can also bring unexpected mood changes for some people.

So what’s going on when your birth control starts affecting your mood and why does it happen to some, but not others? Let’s break it down.

How Birth Control Can Affect Your Mood

Hormonal birth control works by altering your body’s natural hormone levels, typically by introducing synthetic versions of estrogen and/or progesterone. These hormones don’t just regulate your reproductive system they also influence how your brain functions.

Specifically, hormonal fluctuations can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate mood. Some people may feel more anxious or depressed after starting hormonal birth control, especially within the first few months. One study found that the risk of mood-related side effects tends to decrease after two years of use, but the first weeks or months can be a mental rollercoaster.

Why Mood Changes Aren’t the Same for Everyone

Not all bodies respond the same to hormonal birth control. Here’s why reactions can vary:

• Genetics and brain chemistry affect how your body processes hormones.

• Age, lifestyle, and stress levels may amplify or minimize side effects.

• Health history, especially a personal or family history of mood disorders, plays a significant role.

Research shows that over 60% of women with a psychiatric history may experience worsening mood symptoms after starting hormonal contraception.

What Mood Changes Can Look Like

Mood-related side effects often show up within the first few weeks of use and can include:

• Feeling more irritable or anxious

• Depression or a sense of emotional numbness

• Trouble sleeping or increased fatigue

• Heightened stress or low motivation

Other common side effects may include acne, headaches, bloating, or changes in libido, all of which can also influence how you feel emotionally.

Which Birth Control Types Are More Likely to Affect Mood?

Not all hormonal birth control methods impact mood equally:

• Progesterone-only options (like the mini pill or hormonal IUDs) are more commonly associated with mood changes especially in those with a history of depression or anxiety.

• Combination methods (which contain both estrogen and progesterone, such as most pills, the patch, or ring) may be less likely to cause mood shifts.

• Non-hormonal options (like the copper IUD or condoms) do not influence mood through hormone changes and may be a better fit for some.

In fact, estrogen has neuroprotective properties, which may help balance mood for certain users.

How to Manage Mood Swings While on Birth Control

If you’re experiencing mood changes, don’t panic. There are several ways to support your emotional health without giving up on birth control entirely:

• Prioritize self-care: Activities like journaling, reading, or even a 20-minute walk can help rebalance your mood. Artistic activities have been shown to reduce cortisol levels by up to 75%.

• Get moving: Physical activity helps stabilize hormone levels and can improve both mood and energy.

• Eat mindfully: A balanced diet rich in whole foods and low in processed sugar can reduce mood swings.

• Practice stress management: Meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness-based therapy can make a noticeable difference.

• Seek support: If symptoms persist, reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your options.

When to Talk to a Provider (or Consider Stopping)

Nearly 50% of people who stop birth control cite mood or psychological side effects as a primary reason. You should consult your doctor if:

• You feel persistently low, anxious, or unlike yourself

• Side effects interfere with your daily life

• You have a history of mood disorders

• You’re considering switching or stopping birth control

While you can generally stop hormonal birth control at any point, it’s wise to check in with your doctor especially if you’re managing underlying health issues or using birth control for reasons beyond pregnancy prevention.

Yes, Moods Can Stabilize Over Time

Here’s some encouraging news: not everyone experiences negative mood symptoms. In fact, about 14% of women with a history of depression actually report improved mood after starting hormonal birth control. If your body adjusts well to the hormonal changes, your emotions may even feel more balanced over time.

If this article helped you better understand your body, consider sharing it or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights and health tips.