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Effect of Oral Contraceptives on Iron Levels

Most oral contraceptives use a combination of estrogen and synthetic progesterone, known as progestin, to disrupt ovulation and prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills are highly effective is used properly, but the pill can also cause imbalances in nutrient levels.

  1. Types

    • Oral contraceptives can reduce levels of Vitamins B, C and E, zinc and copper, but can increase levels of iron.

    Function

    • Iron is necessary to create hemoglobin, which makes blood red and assists in transporting new blood cells.

    Theories/Speculation

    • In theory, oral contraceptives may cause increased iron levels due to the reduction of menstrual bleeding that typically occurs with using birth control pills, according to J.E. Anderson of Colorado State University.

    Expert Insight

    • A study conducted by Erica P. Frassinelli-Gunderson, MS, MPH, RD, et al, and published in 1985 in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition compared iron and other nutrient levels among 46 women taking oral contraceptives and 71 women who had never taken birth control pills. The results revealed the women using oral contraceptives had higher levels of iron stores.

    Warning

    • Women on oral contraceptives should have iron levels checked regularly because too much iron can be dangerous.

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