Should I Stop Taking Birth Control Pills After Developing Hives?

Q: Should I Stop Taking Birth Control Pills After Developing Hives?

Hello, the questioner： Some medications can indeed affect the efficacy of birth control pills, including certain antibiotics, enzyme inducers, and some HIV treatment medications. <br>Among these, cold medications often contain antibiotics. <br>Therefore, if you need to take any o

I have been consistently taking oral contraceptives, but recently I developed urticaria?

Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about my situation.
I have been taking oral contraceptives (Plan B) for nearly 2 years, and recently I developed urticaria.
I received an injection this morning and am taking medication for treatment, but I also have mild urethritis.
Given this situation, should I stop taking the oral contraceptives? Additionally, due to the severity of my allergy, the doctor prescribed me a steroid, along with antihistamines and medication for the urethritis.

Xiao Mi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/31

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: Some medications can indeed affect the efficacy of birth control pills, including certain antibiotics, enzyme inducers, and some HIV treatment medications.
Among these, cold medications often contain antibiotics.
Therefore, if you need to take any of the aforementioned medications while on birth control, it is advisable to use additional contraceptive measures for seven days.
Based on your situation, it seems there is no need to change the way you take your birth control pills.
I recommend that you continue to follow your physician's treatment advice.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2015/12/31

More Info

When it comes to the use of birth control pills in the context of developing hives (urticaria) and experiencing mild urethritis, it is essential to consider several factors before making a decision about whether to continue or stop taking the pills.

Firstly, hives can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergic reactions, medications, infections, or even stress. If you have recently developed hives and are receiving treatment, including a steroid injection and antihistamines, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause of your hives. If the hives are suspected to be a reaction to the birth control pills, it may be advisable to stop taking them until you can consult with your healthcare provider.

The hormonal components in birth control pills can sometimes contribute to skin reactions in sensitive individuals, although this is relatively rare. If you suspect that the pills may be the cause of your hives, it is prudent to discuss this with your doctor. They may recommend discontinuing the pills temporarily to see if your symptoms improve.
In addition to hives, you mentioned experiencing mild urethritis. This condition can be caused by infections or irritation, and it is essential to treat it appropriately. If the urethritis is related to an infection, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments. It is important to address this condition as well, as it may require specific management that could be affected by the hormonal changes from birth control pills.

When considering stopping birth control pills, it is also important to think about your contraceptive needs. If you stop taking the pills, you will need to consider alternative methods of contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy. Discussing this with your healthcare provider can help you find a suitable alternative that does not exacerbate your current health issues.

In summary, here are some steps you should consider:
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss your recent hives and urethritis with your doctor. They can help determine if the birth control pills are contributing to your symptoms and whether you should stop taking them.

2. Monitor Symptoms: If you stop taking the pills, monitor your hives and urethritis symptoms closely. If they improve, it may indicate that the pills were a contributing factor.

3. Explore Alternatives: If you need to stop the pills, discuss alternative contraceptive methods with your healthcare provider to ensure you remain protected against unintended pregnancy.

4. Follow-Up Care: Ensure you have a follow-up appointment to reassess your symptoms and discuss any necessary changes to your treatment plan.

In conclusion, while it may be necessary to stop taking birth control pills if they are suspected to be the cause of your hives, this decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

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