Does Royal Jelly Affect Birth Control Pill Effectiveness? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Emergency contraceptive pill


Hello Doctor, I usually take the 21-day oral contraceptive pill (Alesse).
I would like to ask: 1.
Will taking collagen that contains royal jelly affect the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill? 2.
Yesterday (June 25), on the third day of taking the contraceptive pill, I consumed royal jelly collagen at 8:30 PM and took the third pill at around 10:20 PM.
I also had sexual intercourse with ejaculation in the afternoon.
Will this affect the contraceptive effectiveness? 3.
Do I need to take emergency contraception today? Thank you, Doctor.

Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/26

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, you should start taking the contraceptive pill on the fifth day of your menstrual period.
Once you start taking it, it will be effective for contraception, and it is not related to food.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2023/06/26

More Info


When it comes to the interaction between royal jelly and birth control pills, it's important to understand the pharmacological properties of both substances. Royal jelly is a substance produced by honeybees and is often marketed as a health supplement due to its purported benefits, including boosting energy and enhancing immune function. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims, and its effects on hormonal medications, such as birth control pills, are not well-documented.

1. Effect of Royal Jelly on Birth Control Pills: Currently, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that royal jelly directly affects the effectiveness of birth control pills like Alesse (愛斯麗安). Birth control pills work primarily by delivering synthetic hormones (estrogen and progestin) that prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. Royal jelly does not contain hormones that would interfere with these mechanisms. Therefore, taking royal jelly should not diminish the effectiveness of your birth control pills.

2. Timing of Consumption: In your case, you consumed royal jelly collagen at 20:30 and then took your birth control pill at 22:20 on the same day. The timing of these two actions is not likely to cause any interaction that would affect the efficacy of the pill. Birth control pills need to be taken consistently at the same time each day to maintain their effectiveness, but the consumption of royal jelly shortly before taking the pill does not alter the absorption or action of the hormones in the pill.

3. Need for Emergency Contraception: Since you had unprotected intercourse on the same day you took your birth control pill, and considering that you took the pill as scheduled, there is no need to take emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") as long as you have been taking your birth control pills consistently and correctly prior to this incident. Birth control pills are designed to provide protection against pregnancy when taken as directed.


Additional Considerations
- Consistency is Key: It is crucial to take your birth control pill at the same time every day. If you miss a dose or take it late, it can reduce its effectiveness. However, since you took your pill within the appropriate time frame after consuming royal jelly, you should be protected.

- Potential Side Effects: While royal jelly is generally considered safe for most people, it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those who are allergic to bee products. If you experience any unusual symptoms after taking royal jelly, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or skin reactions, you should seek medical attention immediately.

- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns about interactions between supplements and medications, or if you experience any side effects from either the birth control pill or royal jelly, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current medications.

In conclusion, based on the current understanding of royal jelly and its interaction with hormonal contraceptives, it is unlikely to affect the effectiveness of your birth control pills. You should continue taking your pills as prescribed and consult your healthcare provider if you have any further questions or concerns.

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