Skin Reactions to Birth Control Pills: A Patient's Journey - Pharmacology

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Herpes can cause skin lesions and swelling?


Hello! My question is that I took birth control pills for two months without knowing that I should take them at the same time every day; I just started taking them as soon as I bought them.
Problems arose when I had a fever, during which I could hear bubbling sounds in my forehead, and I developed large, pus-filled bumps on my skin.
My face became swollen, and the skin was red and painful.
After 2-3 days, the pus-filled bumps crusted over and turned green, affecting my entire face except for the areas around my eyes and forehead.
Initially, I thought it was a skin disease, so I consulted a dermatologist who prescribed steroids.
I didn't realize that I wasn't taking the birth control pills at the correct times and thought it was acne.
After that, the symptoms stopped.
I started taking birth control pills in 2009, but since then, I have had intermittent flare-ups and have been unsure of what to do!

Mi Mi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/26

Dr. Huang Shenggang reply Pharmacology


Hello! If you have questions about medications, please specify the name of the medication to facilitate a better response.
If it's a medical issue, please consult a physician!

Reply Date: 2012/09/26

More Info


The skin reactions you are experiencing after taking birth control pills can be quite concerning and may indicate a sensitivity or allergic reaction to the medication. It’s important to understand that hormonal changes induced by birth control pills can lead to various skin issues, including acne, rashes, and other dermatological conditions.
From your description, it seems that you have experienced significant skin reactions, including fever, swelling, and the formation of pustules on your face. These symptoms could be indicative of several conditions, such as an allergic reaction, a type of dermatitis, or even an infection. The fact that you mentioned the appearance of green scabs suggests that there may have been an infection involved, possibly due to the skin breaking down and forming crusts.

When you started taking the birth control pills without following the prescribed schedule, it could have led to fluctuations in hormone levels, which might have exacerbated your skin condition. Hormonal contraceptives can influence sebum production and skin cell turnover, potentially leading to acne or other skin issues, especially if the body is not adjusting well to the medication.

In terms of management, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist, who can assess your skin condition accurately. They may recommend discontinuing the birth control pills if they are indeed the cause of your skin reactions. Additionally, they might prescribe topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and manage the symptoms. If there is an infection, oral antibiotics may be necessary.

It’s also worth noting that skin reactions can sometimes take time to resolve, even after stopping the offending medication. Therefore, patience and consistent follow-up with your healthcare provider are essential. Keeping a diary of your symptoms, including when they occur and any potential triggers, can also be helpful for your doctor in determining the best course of action.

In summary, your skin reactions may be linked to the birth control pills, especially given the timing and nature of your symptoms. It is essential to seek professional medical advice to explore alternative contraceptive options and to address your skin concerns effectively. Remember, self-medication or delaying treatment can lead to complications, so timely consultation is key to managing your health.

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