Can I take St john's wort and Contraceptive pill together?

Why this happens

St John's Wort is a 'liver enzyme inducer'. This means it speeds up the process by which your liver breaks down the hormones (oestrogen and progestogen) found in the contraceptive pill. Because the hormones are cleared from your body much faster than normal, their levels drop too low to reliably prevent pregnancy.

What you should do

You should not take St John's Wort if you are using any form of hormonal contraception (including the combined pill, the mini-pill, implants, or patches). If you have already started taking it, continue using your pill but use an extra barrier method of contraception (like condoms) immediately. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about alternative treatments for your mood that do not interfere with your birth control.

Important precautions

Unplanned pregnancy

St John's wort significantly reduces the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill. This can lead to contraceptive failure and unplanned pregnancy. You must use an additional barrier method of contraception (like condoms) or switch to a non-hormonal contraceptive method while taking St John's wort and for at least four weeks after stopping it.

Food and drink warnings

St John's Wort (Herbal supplement)

St John's Wort is a potent enzyme inducer that speeds up the breakdown of contraceptive hormones in the liver. This significantly reduces the effectiveness of the pill, leading to breakthrough bleeding and a high risk of unintended pregnancy. You should not take St John's Wort if you are using hormonal contraception.

Using other medicines?

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.