Weight Loss and Stomach Ulcers: Could Birth Control Pills Be the Cause?

Q: Weight Loss and Stomach Ulcers: Could Birth Control Pills Be the Cause?

Hello： 1. Emergency contraceptive pills, pharmacologically, do not cause gastric ulcers. 2. If gastrointestinal discomfort leads to decreased appetite, it may result in weight loss. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.

Weight loss / Is it possible for taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to cause gastric ulcers?

Last February, I was hospitalized due to a gastric ulcer and bleeding.
At that time, it was determined that my emotional state contributed to the issue.
Recently, I recalled that I had been taking oral contraceptives for several months to regulate my menstrual cycle, but I stopped taking them two months before the incident.
Is it possible that the oral contraceptives caused the gastric ulcer? Additionally, after six months of treatment (without follow-up examinations), I do not feel any significant abnormalities in my stomach, except for occasional nausea, but I continue to eat normally.
My weight was originally 48 kg, dropped to 45 kg during the illness, and has now continued to decrease to 40 kg.
I have undergone internal medicine examinations, and both diabetes and thyroid function tests were normal.
Could the weight loss still be attributed to a gastric condition?

Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/10

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Emergency contraceptive pills, pharmacologically, do not cause gastric ulcers.
2.
If gastrointestinal discomfort leads to decreased appetite, it may result in weight loss.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2021/04/10

More Info

The concerns you have regarding weight loss and stomach ulcers, particularly in relation to the use of birth control pills, are valid and warrant a thorough discussion. It is important to understand the potential side effects of hormonal contraceptives and how they may interact with gastrointestinal health.

Firstly, it is well-documented that hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills, can have various side effects, including gastrointestinal issues. Some women report experiencing nausea, bloating, and changes in appetite while on these medications. However, the direct link between birth control pills and the development of stomach ulcers is less clear. While hormonal changes can influence gastrointestinal motility and sensitivity, ulcers are typically caused by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, excessive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or excessive alcohol consumption. Stress and emotional factors can also contribute to ulcer formation, as you mentioned in your case.

Given that you experienced a significant weight loss from 48 kg to 40 kg, it is crucial to consider the underlying reasons for this change. Weight loss of this magnitude can be concerning and may indicate an ongoing gastrointestinal issue, especially if you have a history of stomach ulcers. The fact that you were hospitalized for a bleeding ulcer suggests that your gastrointestinal health needs to be monitored closely. Even if you are not currently experiencing severe symptoms, the potential for complications remains, and it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider.

The occasional feeling of nausea and the continued weight loss you are experiencing could indeed be related to your previous gastric issues. It is possible that your stomach is still sensitive or that there are lingering effects from the ulceration. Additionally, if you are not eating as much due to discomfort or fear of exacerbating your symptoms, this could further contribute to weight loss.
It is also worth noting that stress and anxiety can play significant roles in gastrointestinal health. If you are feeling anxious about your health or have experienced stress related to your past health issues, this could exacerbate symptoms and lead to changes in appetite and weight.

In conclusion, while it is unlikely that the birth control pills directly caused your stomach ulcers, they may have contributed to gastrointestinal sensitivity. Your ongoing weight loss and occasional nausea should be evaluated further. I recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment with a gastroenterologist to discuss your symptoms in detail. They may suggest further diagnostic tests, such as an endoscopy or imaging studies, to assess the current state of your gastrointestinal health. Additionally, it may be beneficial to explore dietary modifications and stress management techniques to support your overall well-being.
Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is essential in managing your health effectively, especially after experiencing significant gastrointestinal issues. Regular monitoring and appropriate interventions can help prevent further complications and promote recovery.

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