Can you safely take Collagen with birth control pills?

Can you safely take Collagen with birth control pills?

Yes, you can safely take Collagen with birth control pills. Collagen is not a medication with an active ingredient. It’s a supplement – a source of protein (1). 

Collagen does not interact with the majority of medications, including birth control pills. Birth control medications are usually hormonal in nature, as hormones are primarily involved in pregnancy-related processes (2). 

Collagen has nothing to do with hormonal activity in your body and it is a structural protein commonly found in your bones, muscles, tendons, etc (1). It does not interact in any way with birth control meds and the concomitant use is absolutely safe. 

What supplements should be avoided with birth control pills?

When taking birth control pills, it’s important to be cautious about certain supplements that may interfere with their effectiveness. St. John’s Wort is one supplement to avoid, as it can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills and increase the risk of unintended pregnancy (3). 

Additionally, some herbal supplements like Saw Palmetto, Dong Quai, and Evening Primrose Oil may also interact with birth control pills. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements while on birth control to ensure they won’t affect its reliability (2).

How to ensure the proper use of birth control pills? 

To ensure the proper use of birth control pills, follow these simple steps (2):

  • Take them at the same time every day: Set a daily alarm or find a routine that helps you remember to take your pill at the same time each day. Consistency is essential for their effectiveness.
  • Read the instructions: Familiarize yourself with the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication label. Understand how to take the pills correctly and what to do if you miss a dose.
  • Avoid missing doses: Try your best not to miss any doses. If you do forget, refer to the instructions on what to do next. Using a backup method, like condoms, for a few days might be necessary.
  • Be mindful of interactions: Certain medications or supplements may interact with birth control pills and reduce their effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medications or supplements.
  • Store them correctly: Keep your pills in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
  • Track your refills: Make sure you have enough pills before running out. Get refills on time to avoid any gaps in your protection.

Remember, birth control pills are most effective when taken correctly and consistently. If you have any concerns or experience side effects, reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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References

1.-

Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz ML, Mesinkovsk NA. Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019 Jan 1;18(1):9-16. PMID: 30681787. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681787/

2.-

Cooper DB, Patel P, Mahdy H. Oral Contraceptive Pills. 2022 Nov 24. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 28613632. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882

3.-

Murphy PA, Kern SE, Stanczyk FZ, Westhoff CL. Interaction of St. John’s Wort with oral contraceptives: effects on the pharmacokinetics of norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol, ovarian activity and breakthrough bleeding. Contraception. 2005 Jun;71(6):402-8. doi: 10.1016/j.contraception.2004.11.004. PMID: 15914127. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15914127/