Do birth-control pills raise triglyceride levels in females?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 26-year-old daughter’s triglyceride level came back very high at 890 milligrams per deciliter during routine blood work, and we are both extremely worried. She has been taking birth control pills for the past three years, and her doctor thinks that the medication may be contributing to the high triglyceride levels. Her high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is low at 28, and her low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is elevated at 165. She does not drink alcohol or overeat, but she has gained weight around her midsection.

There is a family history of high triglycerides; her grandmother had pancreatitis because of it. The cardiologist has recommended starting treatment with Fenofibrate, but my daughter is concerned about possible side effects. While her menstrual cycles are regular on the birth control pill, she has noticed that her acne has worsened, and she is also experiencing anxiety and mood swings.

We are also feeling confused about what dietary changes to make, since she already avoids sugary and fried foods. We are wondering whether she should stop taking birth control pills and whether genetic testing for familial hypertriglyceridemia is recommended. The risk of developing pancreatitis is very frightening, especially since she is still so young.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Your daughter’s triglyceride levels are very high and do require treatment with medication. Fenofibrate and Gemfibrozil are both effective drugs used to lower very high triglycerides. These medicines usually have only mild side effects, such as stomach discomfort, bloating, indigestion, or nausea, and most people tolerate them well.

Birth control pills are a known cause of high triglyceride levels and should be stopped immediately to reduce the risk of serious complications like pancreatitis. They can also cause side effects such as anxiety, mood swings, and acne. For someone with high triglycerides, it is safer to use non-hormonal methods of contraception.

Lifestyle changes are also significant. Daily exercise, weight loss, avoiding refined sugars and carbohydrates, cooking with vegetable oil, and eating more salads, fruits, vegetables, and fiber can help improve cholesterol levels. It is also important to avoid junk food and prepackaged foods. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help lower triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein levels.

Since your daughter has very high triglycerides and a family history of pancreatitis, genetic testing for inherited lipid disorders may be helpful. This is especially recommended if her triglyceride and cholesterol levels stay high even after making these changes.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.