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.