Does hormonal birth control affect moods? Or does it cause premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? Or does it cause premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)? Several studies have evaluated the effects of birth control on PMS and PMDD. In this article, we will discuss these effects and more.
Studies show that hormonal birth control improves your PMS rather than exacerbates it. So, you don’t have to worry about using hormonal pregnancy suppression drugs if you have PMDD or PMS. It would help to know that PMDD is more severe than PMS, a chronic illness.
What Is PMS?
PMS combines the physical and emotional symptoms you have before your period begins. Some people don’t experience PMS. However, over 85 percent of people who experience periods get the symptoms.
The symptoms usually leave when your period starts. Also, they can be in mild or severe forms.
You will experience physical symptoms, such as:
- Changes in bowel activities
- Back pain
- Headache
- Swollen or tender breasts
- Bloating or feeling gassy
- Cramps
You will experience emotional or mental symptoms, such as:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Frequent crying
- Fatigue [1]
- Persistent sadness
- Food cravings
- Brain fog
- Sleeping difficulties
- Reduced sex drive