You are here: PharmacyArticlesBirth ControlBirth Control Pills and Iron Deficiency Read more articles on: Birth Control Published on: September 3, 2020 Last Updated On: September 3, 2020 Free Delivery: Your medication is delivered directly to you at no added cost. We even offer same-day delivery in selected locations. Discreet Packaging: Your privacy is important. That's why we send your medication inside a plain delivery box so no one will know what's inside. Birth Control Pills and Iron Deficiency Birth control pills are commonly used in prescription medication. Almost 43.7% of contraceptive users in Canada prefer birth pills.Along with the gynecological influence, contraceptive pills also have nutritional and metabolic effects. While many of these effects are negative, there are positive effects as well. One such positive effect of birth pills with progestin is an increase in the serum transferrin and iron levels. Transferrin is a protein produced by the liver that carries iron in the blood. An increase in transferrin levels, thus results in increased iron.As women in the child-bearing age are commonly seen to have low iron levels, birth pills may be a good contraceptive option for them.Here is more about the effect of birth control pills on iron deficiency.Table of Contents Birth Control and Iron LevelsBirth Control and Iron Deficiency RiskIron Supplements for Birth ControlBirth Control Pills and Iron Supplements DietFinal ThoughtsBirth Control and Iron LevelsIron deficiency is a common condition affecting almost 20% – 25% women around the world. About 14% of women in their child-bearing age suffer from painful and heavy menstrual bleeding. Not only the condition is frustrating and expensive, but it also increases the risk of iron deficiency.Some symptoms of iron deficiency are:Shortness of breathPalpitationsLethargyFatiguePale skinHeadacheBirth pills can come handy in such cases. They reduce the duration and amount of bleeding during the menstrual cycle. This allows women to restore their iron stores. So, birth pills can be used to prevent or manage iron deficiency in women of child-bearing age.But the majority of birth pills are a combination pill with estrogen and progestin and cannot be used by everyone. Some of those contraindications are:Women above 35 years of ageHistory of blood clotsHabit of smoking In such cases, the progestin-only pill can be used to manage iron-deficiency.ALSO READ Birth Control Pills & Blood Clots: Everything you need to knowBirth Control and Iron Deficiency RiskRed blood cells provide nutrients and oxygen to the body cells throughout and hemoglobin in the red blood cells is responsible for this function.The cells need adequate iron to maintain hemoglobin levels. In iron deficiency, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin, and the RBCs are unable to deliver oxygen to body cells.Some causes for iron deficiency are PregnancyInability of the body to absorb iron, such as in Celiac diseaseBlood lossA diet deficient in iron.Further, women with heavy periods are at a higher risk of iron deficiency. Studies have shown that women on contraceptive pills have higher iron levels as compared to the general healthy population.Here are ways by which birth pills improve iron levels are:Lowering the amount of blood loss during each menstrual cycleReducing the duration of the menstrual cycleIncreasing the production of transferrin from the liverIron Supplements for Birth ControlIron supplements are usually not recommended for women on birth control pills. However, there is no reason to avoid iron-rich foods or multivitamins. In case you are still concerned about iron levels, you may consult your doctor and get supplements with low levels of iron.Birth Control Pills and Iron Supplements DietTreatment of women with iron deficiency involves supplements and foods rich in ironSome good sources include:Brown riceSeeds and nutsEggsGreen leafy vegetablesBeans and pulsesIron-fortified bread or cerealsDried fruits such as prunes, apricots, and raisinsFinal ThoughtsBirth pills are the second most common preferred method of contraception by Canadian women. These contraceptive pills have various effects on the body, including an increase in the iron levels. As women in child-bearing age are commonly seen to be deficient in iron, birth pills may be an excellent option for them. You may talk to your doctor and understand if birth pills are the best option for you.ALSO READ When to Start Birth Control Pills – Is It Best to Wait for Your Period to Start or Not? ANSWERED We're Here for You: Our pharmacists are happy to answer your questions. Get in touch by text, live chat, phone or email. We're standing by 7 days a week. Automatic Refills: We manage your refills and get in touch with your doctors for prescription renewals so that you always have the medication you need. Read More... 18448 Views Share