Is there any truth to the idea that taking oral contraceptives can increase my risk of back pain? I’ve already had two episodes of back pain, and I’m trying to decide which form of birth control to use.

Many experts do think there’s a direct link between oral contraceptive use and low back pain (LBP). Actual evidence to support this is scarce. There is some data to show estrogen use during menopause can increase the risk of LBP.

A recent study of 11,428 Dutch women may shed some light on this subject. Information was collected by survey including questions about pregnancy history, age at first birth, number of children, and use of oral contraceptives (OC) or other hormones. Questions were also asked about menstrual cycle and regularity at the start of the girls’ first period.

They found that duration of OC use was linked with increased risk of LBP. The longer a woman was on OCs, the greater the risk of LBP. OC use appears to increase ligamentous laxity in the pelvis resulting in LBP.

There’s no way to predict who might have back pain from taking OCs. Talk with your doctor about your concerns. With the right pill and careful monitoring, you may be able to use OCs without any increase in your back pain. Or your physician may suggest a better birth control method for you.