Long-term usage of combined oral contraceptives changes your hormone levels, but this is not the only change that happens in a woman’s body. Many nutrients are also altered due to the hormones that the pill contains.

Vitamin B deficiency

Women who use the pill may have lower levels of vitamins B2, B6, B12, and folic acid. A lack of B12 may cause depression, confusion, and anemia, a lack of B6 increases the risk for neurologic disorders, and a deficiency in folate among pregnant mothers may result in neural defects in babies.  

Vitamin C & E deficiency

Birth control pills also depress the levels of vitamin C and E. A lack of vitamin E may lead to vision problems, disorientation, and muscle weakness.  

Low levels of vitamin C can lead to low infection resistance, anemia, dry hair and skin, frequent bruising, weakened teeth and gums, painful joints, etc.

Deficiency of minerals

If you’ve been using hormonal contraceptives for a long time, you may have a lack of zinc, magnesium, selenium, and coenzyme Q.  

When prescribing oral contraceptives, your doctor should examine your medical history and make sure you are comfortable and safe while taking birth control.