Lab Tests to Consider Before Starting Birth Control

Hormonal birth control is safe for most women, but certain pre-existing conditions affect which options are appropriate. Testing can help personalize your choice.

Why Test Before Birth Control?

Birth control can: - Affect blood clot risk - Deplete certain nutrients - Mask underlying conditions - Impact future fertility assessment

Recommended Tests

Blood Clot Risk - Factor V Leiden (genetic clotting disorder) - Prothrombin gene mutation - If personal or family history of clots

Baseline Hormones (Optional) - FSH, LH, Estradiol - Testosterone - These establish your baseline before suppression

Nutrient Levels Birth control can deplete: - B vitamins (especially B6, B12, folate) - Magnesium - Zinc - Vitamin C

Thyroid - TSH at minimum - Full panel if symptoms present

Metabolic - Fasting glucose - Lipid panel

Why This Matters

Establishing baselines before starting birth control: - Identifies pre-existing conditions - Helps monitor for changes - Provides data for future fertility planning - Guides nutrient supplementation

Special Considerations

Certain conditions affect birth control choice: - Migraines with aura - History of blood clots - Certain heart conditions - Active liver disease - Breast cancer history

References

• Curtis, K. M., et al. (2016). U.S. medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use, 2016. *MMWR Recommendations and Reports*, 65(3), 1-103.
• Palmery, M., et al. (2013). Oral contraceptives and changes in nutritional requirements. *European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences*, 17(13), 1804-1813.