How hormonal birth control affects your mood

Birth control helps prevent pregnancy and can regulate periods. But what about your mood? If you've ever felt extra emotional after starting a hormonal birth control method, you might wonder: Does birth control cause mood swings? Let’s break it down.

If you’re looking to switch up your birth control to avoid side effects like mood changes, Hey Jane can help. Consult with our providers on 100+ birth control options that fit your needs, all from the comfort and convenience of your phone.

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How does hormonal birth control work?

Hormonal birth control comes in many forms, including pills, sticker-like patches, vaginal rings, IUDs, and shots. While each is a bit different, they generally work by changing your body’s natural hormone levels to prevent pregnancy. This happens by:

• Stopping ovulation
• Thickening cervical mucus (so sperm can’t reach an egg)
• Thinning the uterine lining (makes it harder for a pregnancy to develop)

These changes can also affect your mood.

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Can birth control affect emotions?

The short answer: yes, for some people. According to one research study, your body’s hormones play a major role in regulating mood—and hormonal birth control can tweak those levels. But the experience can be really different from one person to the next. Some people feel no change at all, while others might notice shifts in their mood, anxiety, or irritability. Things like sleep, stress, and diet can also play a role in how birth control affects your mood.

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Estrogen’s role

Estrogen helps regulate serotonin , a brain chemical that boosts mood. Higher estrogen levels can make you feel good, but sudden changes—like starting or stopping birth control—can cause mood fluctuations including anxiety and depression. Some people feel an initial dip at first before their mood stabilizes.

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Progesterone’s role

Progestogen (a synthetic version of progesterone) can have a calming effect. Some people feel sluggish or down when taking progestin-only birth control (like the mini-pill or shot). Others find it helps with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). However, for some, progestogen may worsen PMDD symptoms.

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Can birth control cause anxiety?

It’s possible. If you already struggle with anxiety, hormonal birth control may make it worse—especially during the adjustment phase. The good news? Many people find their anxiety lessens after a few months as their body adapts.

Can birth control make you irritable?

Yes, moodiness and irritability can happen as your body adjusts to new hormone levels. This usually improves over time. If it interferes with daily life, consider talking to a healthcare provider about switching methods. Birth control can be trial-and-error for many people, and that’s completely okay.

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Can birth control make you angry?

Some people report feeling more frustrated or short-tempered, as hormonal fluctuations can intensify emotions. However, many things in our lives can trigger mood changes, so make sure to check in with yourself to identify any other stressors. If your mood swings feel extreme, a different hormonal balance—or a non-hormonal option—might be a better fit. Don’t hesitate to talk with your health care provider about other birth control options that won’t have such a harsh effect on your mood.

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Benefits of birth control for mood

It’s not all bad news! For many people, birth control actually helps regulate mood swings, especially those related to PMS or PMDD. Potential benefits include:

• Fewer mood swings before your period: Helps stabilize hormones, leading to a more balanced mood.
• Reduced anxiety or depression symptoms: Some people find that birth control lessens mood-related symptoms tied to their menstrual cycle.
• More predictable emotions: Consistent hormone levels can mean fewer unexpected mood dips.
• Relief from PMDD symptoms: Some pills, especially those with drospirenone (a synthetic progestin), can reduce PMDD symptoms.
• Decreased physical PMS symptoms: Since birth control can reduce bloating, fatigue, and headaches, it may indirectly help stabilize mood.
• Fewer hormonal migraines: Some birth control methods help prevent drastic hormone shifts that trigger migraines and mood swings.

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How long do mood swings last on birth control?

The adjustment period typically lasts three to five months, but side effects can clear up faster or slower depending on the person. If you’ve just started a new method and feel off, give your body time to adapt. If mood swings persist beyond three months, consider talking to your provider about switching methods.

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When to see a doctor

Mild mood changes are common and usually improve over time. However, if you experience severe mood swings, persistent anxiety, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, talk to a healthcare provider. There are many birth control options, and switching methods may help you feel more like yourself.

If you’re thinking about getting on or switching birth control, Hey Jane can help. We have over 100 options, including different types of the pill, patch, ring, and shot, you can try. Schedule a quick, virtual consultation with one of our expert and compassionate providers to get started.