Can you take aspirin with birth control?

You may be wondering if it is safe to take aspirin while on birth control. After all, both medicines are often taken for different reasons and have varying effects on the body.

Well, look no further, because we’re about to dive into everything you need to know about taking aspirin while on birth control. Whether you want a straightforward answer or a deep understanding of how these two drugs interact, this article has got you covered.

What is Aspirin?

Aspirin is a common medication used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps relieve pain caused by headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle pains and joint pains. Additionally, it reduces inflammation which makes it effective in treating conditions such as arthritis.

As an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), aspirin works by inhibiting COX enzymes that generate prostaglandins responsible for producing pain and inflammation within the body.

How does Birth Control Work?

Before we jump into answering if “it’s safe to take aspirin with birth control,” let’s discuss first what exactly birth control is and how it works.

There are several types of birth controls available in the market – pills that contain hormones like estrogen/progesterone/mixture called combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) taken orally every day at the same time; Contraceptive injections including pre-filled devices implanted under your skin that releases low amount of progesterone; Intrauterine devise/IUDs where plastic or copper device placed inside uterus stops sperm from fusing with egg leading implantation; Vaginal ring/patches etc.
The pill prevents ovulation which means there will be no release of an egg during ovulation period however other forms prevent fertilizations after the fusion between semen & egg already happened.. They also thicken cervical mucus making entry impossible for sperm.

Aspirin and Birth Control

Can You Take Aspirin with Progestin-Only Pills?

Some types of birth control pills, such as progestin-only pills or “mini-pills”, do not contain estrogen. Since aspirin’s analgesic effect also comes from inhibiting COX enzymes which can interfere with the blood-clotting function in platelets. Thus, aspirin use is generally considered safe when combined with this type of birth control.

However, we still recommend consulting your health care provider before taking any medicine alongside your regular medication for tailor-made advice that best fits your current condition.

How Does Aspirin Affect Combined Hormonal Contraceptives (CHCs)?

Combined hormonal contraceptive pill schedule includes both progesterone & estrogen mimicking natural hormone levels thus suppressing ovulation cycle preventing pregnancy – it allows for egg formation but prevents it from being fertilized due to thickening of vaginal mucus making entry difficult for sperm however since aspirins/non-prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used after surgery where blood clotting is necessary so they may influence CYP metabolism leading to decreased benefits. This means though CHC users must consider the potential risk factors if taken long-term

Interaction between NSAIDs & Combined OCs

The interaction reported signifies high risk due decrease in venous thrombosis protection-during Use:

Decreased Effectiveness: Taking NSAIDs like aspirin can result in a reduction by two-thirds or more effectiveness against ethinyloestradiol contraceptive daily doses than usual meaning the ability of CHCP reduces significantly at higher amounts..

Therefore, those taking combined oral contraceptives are recommended to avoid relying on painkillers that have anti-blood coagulating effects during treatment as well as post-surgical procedure recovery periods where avoiding inflammation/bleeding may be advantageous

A good strategy would be trying an additional form of alternate pain control while continuing the contraceptives like ice-packs, tens machine for painful cramps, hot compress, physical therapy etc.

In summary

The evidentiary-based answer to can you take aspirin with birth control is that it depends on what type of pill you are using and how long you will be taking aspirin. It’s always best if in doubt, discuss potential interactions with any medication with your health care provider to avoid risks along the way.\

Now that we’ve covered everything there is to know about whether or not aspirin can be taken alongside birth control pills- let’s move onto some frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Aspirin Safe During Pregnancy?

No. Aspirin has anti-blood coagulating effects which conflict fetal development causing complications during delivery so never use unless advised by a physician/nurse-midwife.

Can You Take Aspirin While Breastfeeding?

As per safest guideline-set up by The American Academy of Pediatrics/Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association, nursing mothers should not consume any amount of alcohol/caffeine except under physician advice therefore taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen/aspiring regularly without first consulting medical personnel would not be suggested until confirming safety protocols ensured naturally dependent upon individual patient circumstances.

That being said breastfeeding mother should explore ways to manage post-natal pains like wearing loose clothes getting enough sleep & rest; practicing breathing techniques also hourly BP evaluation passes via healthcare professionals due follow-up appointments necessary after maternity period ideal time check-ups begin-after six weeks post-partum life following childbirth.

In conclusion thus confirmed Yes – one can take aspirins when religiously following non-Estrogen based hormonal contraceptive however interaction between NSAIDs/Oral Contraceptives must be considered approaching situation case-by-case basis specifically discussing goals/timing/frequency & ensuring potential risks are minimized either before or after taking aspirin alongside any CHCP.

However, always remember that individual health circumstances vary and it’s best to consult with medical professionals about your current precautions should you identify any red flags- don’t rely on the internet for answers by self-diagnosing seek professional assistance as needed.

Stay healthy!