Do Bladder Infection Medications Affect Birth Control Pills?

Will medications for cystitis affect birth control pills?

Hello, because it's inconvenient to go to the hospital while abroad, I first bought over-the-counter medication at the pharmacy.
My symptoms include discomfort in the lower abdomen and near the genital area, similar to a soreness, occurring towards the end of urination, along with a little bit of bleeding.
The pharmacy provided me with a prescription for Zhu Ling Decoction, which contains: Aluminum Silicate Hydrate with Silicon Dioxide (Talc) 1.5g, Alisma Tuber 1.5g, Polyporus Sclerotium 1.5g, Poria Sclerotium 1.5g, and Asini Corii Collas 1.5g.
I would like to ask if I need to stop taking the contraceptive pill (Alesse) that I have been using for 2 years.
Thank you! :)

X, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/29

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, do not stop taking the birth control pills; the medication for bladder infection will not affect the birth control pills.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/01/29

More Info

When it comes to bladder infection medications and their potential effects on birth control pills, it is essential to understand the interaction between the two. The medication you mentioned, which contains a combination of herbal ingredients, is not a conventional antibiotic but rather a traditional remedy. Therefore, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives like the birth control pill (in this case, "艾斯麗安" or "Alesse").

Generally, most over-the-counter medications for bladder infections, such as those containing phenazopyridine (a urinary analgesic), do not interfere with hormonal birth control. However, certain antibiotics, particularly rifampin and some other broad-spectrum antibiotics, can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills by affecting the metabolism of the hormones in the liver. This is due to the induction of liver enzymes that can lead to lower levels of contraceptive hormones in the bloodstream.

Since you are taking Alesse, which is a combination oral contraceptive, it is crucial to ensure that any medication you take does not compromise its effectiveness. The herbal components in the medication you mentioned are not known to interact negatively with birth control pills. However, if you were prescribed an antibiotic, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional regarding the specific antibiotic's potential interactions with your birth control.

In your case, if you are only using the herbal remedy and not any antibiotics, you do not need to stop taking your birth control pills. However, if you experience any side effects or if your symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek medical attention, even if it is inconvenient. Persistent symptoms such as discomfort, burning during urination, or any bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying issues.

In summary, while most bladder infection medications, particularly herbal remedies, do not affect the efficacy of birth control pills, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about interactions. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and the specific medications you are taking. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and do not hesitate to seek medical advice when needed.

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Do Bladder Infection Medications Affect Birth Control Effectiveness?

Hello, doctor. Recently, I have experienced hematuria and suspect it may be cystitis. If I take medication for cystitis while also using the oral contraceptive pill (Alesse), will it affect the contraceptive effectiveness? Thank you, doctor!

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Hello, it generally does not have an impact. Wishing you good health.

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