What Causes Frequent PVCs After Taking Microgestin?

Posted on Thu, 11 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 11 Jun 2015 Answered on

Wed, 1 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I'm a 33 year old female and began having frequent PVCS after having my child two years ago. At the same time, I started back on birth control (Microgestin 1/20 Fe). Prior to pregnancy, I took Ortho Cyclen for 10 years. These are the only prescriptions I've been on (other than the occasional antibiotic). I've been evaluated by a cardiologist and had an echo, stress test and multiple EKGs. A recent holter monitor showed frequent PVCs/PACs, but my cardiologist said he wasn't too worried. He offered a beta blocker, but said it wasn't essential ('m not currently taking that). My magnesium level was 1.8 and potassium 3.4 (apparently low end of the normal range). So, my questions are: 1) is it possible that the birth control is causing or contributing to the PVCs? 2) If so, if I stop taking it, how long before I could see potential improvement? 3) Can my type of birth control decrease vitamins/minerals (like potassium and magnesium)?

Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (-4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I recommend you to change into another method of contraception

Detailed Answer:
Hello!

Thank you for your question on HCM! I understand your concern.

I would like to explain that there are no studies that confirm clearly any possible role of the birth control pills on cardiac arrhythmia ( including PVCs and PACs.
So I can not say for sure that there is any possible relation between your PVCs and the birth control pills.

But there are many studies that associate these drugs to a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, deep vein thrombosis, liver disease and breast cancer.

Estrogen and progesterone (the components of birth control pills) are also related to salt and water equilibrium in the body modifying their renal excretion. In many studies they have been shown to cause imbalance in the electrolytes of the body like potassium, magnesium and some vitamins. So the low levels of these two electrolytes could be also related to these drugs, besides a low intake with your diet.

From the other hand I would like to explain that both these electrolytes are very important for the muscle cells function (including the muscle of the heart) and they can be the cause of cardiac arrhythmia if in non appropriate plasma levels.

So I would recommend you to avoid birth control pills and try to use another method of contraception like intrauterine devices etc.
I would also advise you to take supplements of potassium and magnesium for some weeks.

Hope to have been helpful!

Greetings! Dr. Iliri

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar