Hormonal birth control is safe for most women, but certain pre-existing conditions affect which options are appropriate. Testing can help personalize your choice.
Why Test Before Birth Control?
Birth control can:
- Affect blood clot risk
- Deplete certain nutrients
- Mask underlying conditions
- Impact future fertility assessment
Recommended Tests
Blood Clot Risk
- Factor V Leiden (genetic clotting disorder)
- Prothrombin gene mutation
- If personal or family history of clots
Baseline Hormones (Optional)
- FSH, LH, Estradiol
- Testosterone
- These establish your baseline before suppression
Nutrient Levels
Birth control can deplete:
- B vitamins (especially B6, B12, folate)
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Vitamin C
Thyroid
- TSH at minimum
- Full panel if symptoms present
Metabolic
- Fasting glucose
- Lipid panel
Why This Matters
Establishing baselines before starting birth control:
- Identifies pre-existing conditions
- Helps monitor for changes
- Provides data for future fertility planning
- Guides nutrient supplementation
Special Considerations
Certain conditions affect birth control choice:
- Migraines with aura
- History of blood clots
- Certain heart conditions
- Active liver disease
- Breast cancer history
References
- Curtis, K. M., et al. (2016). U.S. medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use, 2016. MMWR Recommendations and Reports, 65(3), 1-103.
- Palmery, M., et al. (2013). Oral contraceptives and changes in nutritional requirements. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 17(13), 1804-1813.
