• Question: Can you get addicted to birth control pills? If so, how would it effect you?

    Asked by 355drud48 to Anne, Florence, Mark, Neil, Sinead on 17 Nov 2015.
    • Photo: Sinead Balgobin

      Sinead Balgobin answered on 17 Nov 2015:

      I’m really glad you guys are asking mature questions about birth control- there isn’t enough sex education, and it is so important that all your questions get answered.

      You can’t get addicted to birth control in a biochemical sense- the compounds just aren’t addictive. You might become reliant on them in a psychological sense, if you feel like you need to continue to control your ovulation/choice to have children/if it is a medical necessity etc. It’s always your choice- just remember to discuss you options and their repercussions with your doctor.

      If you decide to go on the pill you should remember some things: first, while the pill stops you from getting pregnant, it doesn’t stop any STDs. Always use a condom. Second, since the pill affects your hormones it could have side effects- make sure you discuss it with your doctor beforehand, report any side effects you think it might be having, and if you decide to stop taking it talk to your doctor first- like with any medication you shouldn’t just stop without talking to a medical professional.

      Most importantly, stay safe. Having sex is your choice- never let anyone pressure you into anything you don’t want to do. Make sure you are educated on the risks so you don’t have to worry about them. ALWAYS use protection.

    • Photo: Florence McCarthy

      Florence McCarthy answered on 18 Nov 2015:

      I don’t think so – if you did get addicted it would be due to a placebo effect in believing that the drugs was doing more for you than it actually is. Millions of women take birth control pills everyday in a safe manner and are not adversely affected.

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