How can birth control pills affect mood swings?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Birth control pills can affect mood and brain activity in some women, leading to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depressive symptoms. Hormonal contraceptives alter estrogen and progesterone levels, which influence neurotransmitters like serotonin—chemicals that regulate emotions and mental well-being.

If you've noticed mood changes since starting birth control, you're not alone, and it's worth exploring. Mood symptoms can stem from many causes, so identifying the source is the first step toward feeling better. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights and clearer guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, can impact mood and brain activity. Some women who use these pills might notice changes in how they feel emotionally. According to research, these pills can affect the brain in ways that might lead to mood swings or even mood disorders in certain individuals.

How Birth Control Pills Affect Mood:

Brain Activity Changes: Taking birth control pills can change how the brain works. This might make some people feel different emotions more strongly.
Mood Disorders: Some women might have mood disorders, like feeling very sad or anxious, when they use these pills.

Not everyone will have mood changes from birth control pills. If you or someone you know is having a hard time with mood swings or mood disorders, it's important to talk with a healthcare provider. To better understand your symptoms and get personalized guidance, you can try this free AI symptom checker.

(References)

Gingnell M, Engman J, Frick A, Moby L, Wikström J, Fredrikson M, & Sundström-Poromaa I. (2013). Oral contraceptive use changes brain activity and mood in .... Psychoneuroendocrinology, 23219471.
Mu E, & Kulkarni J. (2022). Hormonal contraception and mood disorders. Australian prescriber, 35755988.
C Curtin A, & Johnston CS. (2023). Vitamin B6 Supplementation Reduces Symptoms .... Journal of dietary supplements, 35109763.

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