Are period delaying pills the culprit behind your acne? Find out what experts have to say

Is your upcoming beach vaaction coinciding with the dreaded week of the month? Got a puja to attend that you absolutely cannot miss? Period delaying pills have been a gamechanger for us women, no doubt. But they may be wrecking havoc on your skin. Indianexpress.com spoke to clinical experts and found out the connection between acne and these magic pills.

“Period delaying pills, which frequently contain synthetic hormones similar as norethisterone, can cause acne in some women. This happens because these synthetic hormones can increase the degrees of androgens (male hormones) in the body, leading to an increase in sebum production and the potential for clogged pores, which can cause acne,” shared Dr M Rajini, Consultant Gynecologist, CARE Hospitals Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Are there any health risks involved?

Period-delaying pills are associated with side effects such as blood clots, causing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Long-term use of these pills tends to cause fluctuation in the hormones leading to irregular menstrual cycles,” said Dr Mansi Sharma, Consultant- Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi.

“Period delaying pills like norethisterone can cause acne because of fluctuation in the hormonal level. We’ve also noted increased bleeding during menses and abdominal pain. Women who have previous cardiovascular condition or have had episodes of stroke, or those who smoke should not take oral contraceptive pills,” said Dr Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic.

Dr M Rajini talked about how these pills cause hormonal imbalances which disrupt the natural hormonal cycle, which might lead to side effects like mood swings, weight gain, or irregular menstrual cycles after stopping the pills. There’s a slightly increased threat of blood clots, especially in women with a history of clotting diseases or who are smokers. Common side effects include breast tenderness and headaches, besides long term use affecting liver function.

Synthetic hormones can increase the degrees of androgens (male hormones) in the body, leading to an increase in sebum production and the potential for clogged pores, which can cause acne. (Source: Freepik)

Can acne be curbed while continuing these pills?

In case one has to continue using period-delaying pills, Dr Sharma suggests exfoliating and cleansing the skin along with using a lightweight moisturizer. Choose non-comedogenic products to reduce the chances of pore blockage and breakouts.

Dr Rajini recommended avoiding high glycemic foods and dairy, which can complicate acne. “You can use topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. In case the acne persists, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications or hormonal treatments,” she said.

Who should avoid these pills?

“Women with a particular or family history of blood clots or thrombophilia, liver disease or impaired liver function, those with a history of severe hormonal side effects, similar to migraines should avoid using such pills,” warned Dr M Rajini.

Also, women with a history of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers and smokers, especially those over 35 years old, should refrain from using them as smoking increases the threat of cardiovascular side effects, she added.

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