Red Clover and Birth Control

One benefit attributed to red clover is its ability to enhance fertility. Although a 1999 study concluded that it doesn't weaken the effectiveness of birth-control pills, check with your doctor if you use this form of contraception when consuming red clover.

Geographic Distribution

• The red clover plant is found in the continents of North and South America, Africa and Asia. The plant's blossoms are used for producing herbal supplements.

Drug Interactions

• Red clover can inhibit the ability of the liver's enzymes to break down medications, which is why it can render birth-control pills ineffective.

Phytoestrogens

• The herb contains a product called phytoestrogens, which are plant-based chemicals that behave like the estrogen hormone that humans produce.

Products

• Examine product labels before consuming vitamins, supplements or teas. Red clover may be combined with other herbs, like black cohosh, for example, in such items.

Backup Contraception

• To be on the safe side, use a second form of birth control, like condoms, along with your birth-control pills for the duration of time that you're eating red clover.