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I’m taking a multivitamin and calcium, will that interact with the birth control pills?

Medically reviewed by Sophia Yen, MD, MPH – Written by Pandia Health Editorial Team

Multivitamins typically do not affect birth control. However, birth control may decrease the level of certain vitamins in the body. 

There are various factors that can influence the interaction between birth control and some medications. For instance, certain antibiotics reduce the potency of birth control, which could make it less effective. Additional drugs that may affect contraceptives are those used to treat seizures, diabetes, and fungal infections. 

In terms of multivitamins specifically, Health Grades mentions that most will not impact the effectiveness of birth control. The main supplement that may be advised against is iron because the birth control pill increases the level of iron in your blood by decreasing your monthly blood loss. 

Even though taking birth control alongside most multivitamins is safe, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor prior to starting something new. They can help you find a solution that best meets your needs. 

Vitamins in a cup

How can Pandia Health help?

Speaking of expert care, the board-certified doctors at Pandia Health can help you find a birth control that best fits your health needs and lifestyle habits. Individuals who live in AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, PA, MI, NV, NY, TN, TX, WA, or WY can sign up for online consultation with one of our doctors. We prescribe the pill, patch, and ring! Individuals who already have a birth control pill that they love can transfer their prescription to our pharmacy and get it delivered right to their mailbox for FREE. Join our community of empowered people with uteri today and get that #PandiaPeaceofMind. 

Disclaimer: The following information is for general informational purposes only and is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor/primary care provider before starting or changing treatment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take prenatal vitamins and birth control?

Yes. While taking birth control and prenatal vitamins at the same time is safe, eventually you need to come off birth control in order to become pregnant. Furthermore, most women start taking prenatal vitamins once they have already stopped using birth control to prepare for pregnancy. These vitamins are not medically necessary, but can be beneficial for women who fall short on key nutrients such as iron and folic acid.

Which vitamins should I take while on birth control?

There are no additional vitamins necessary but Birth control is associated with some decrease in some nutrients and each person is different. “Evidence for actual nutritional deficiencies due to the use of oral contraceptives is still insufficient, and more research is needed.” It may be recommended that an individual takes various supplements and/or alters their diet to account for these changes. More specifically, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, Magnesium, and Folic Acid may be beneficial to take for maximal health. The amount and type that you need may vary, so it’s always a good idea to consult a doctor prior to starting anything new.

Does Vitamin D affect birth control pills?

Vitamin D does not impact the efficacy of the birth control pill, so it can be taken at the same time. However, this may not be necessary because those who take birth control tend to have higher levels of Vitamin D in their systems. On the other hand, once an individual stops taking birth control, their heightened level may drop. For this reason, they may want to consider taking a Vitamin D supplement, as it is beneficial for bone health.

Does zinc affect birth control?

Zinc doesn’t reduce the effectiveness of birth control. However, birth control may lower the level of zinc that naturally occurs in the body. Furthermore, it may be necessary to take a supplement and/or eat more foods that contain zinc, as it supports growth and development and is required for immune function.

Does magnesium affect birth control?

Magnesium doesn’t affect birth control. However, birth control may reduce the efficacy of Magnesium as a result of increased levels of estrogen in the blood. Furthermore, eating foods that are rich in Magnesium and/or taking a supplement may be necessary for individuals who use birth control, as this mineral supports many vital functions including blood pressure and muscle actions.

Does Vitamin C affect birth control?

Vitamin C doesn’t affect how well birth control pills/patches/ring work. However, if you are taking 1000mg of Vitamin C or more, Vitamin C may increase the estrogen’s side effects.

Does calcium affect birth control?

Although the relationship between calcium and birth control is relatively insignificant, some contraceptives (specifically low-dose pills) could lead to decreased bone density. Therefore, it may be recommended that individuals who take birth control also take calcium supplements in order to maintain bone health and decrease their risk of developing osteoporosis.

Do probiotics affect birth control?

Probiotics are safe to take along with birth control, as they do not interfere with the body’s hormones. In fact, probiotics contain bacteria that is beneficial for your gut health.

Does this apply to everyone?

Every person is different, and thus, has unique needs that should be addressed prior to starting any multivitamins. It is important to communicate openly and honestly with your healthcare provider so that they can provide the most effective care.

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