HomeAnswersNeurologyneck spasm

Can birth control pills trigger neck spasms during periods?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 26 years old and have been experiencing involuntary neck twisting, which seems to worsen significantly during my menstrual cycle. These symptoms began about three months after I started a new birth control pill, and I am wondering if there could be a connection. The muscle spasms become so severe during my period that they interfere with my ability to work and care for my two-year-old daughter.

I am concerned that hormonal fluctuations might be triggering these episodes. Should I consider stopping the contraceptive, and would it be safe to try for another pregnancy while experiencing these symptoms? I am also feeling anxious about the possibility of passing this condition on to future children. Please help.

Any guidance or insight you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Answered by Dr. Sally Attalah

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand your concern.

Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, particularly the drop in estrogen that occurs before and during menstruation (a natural part of the female reproductive cycle known as a period), can influence pain sensitivity and muscle tension (which arises from prolonged stress, poor posture (e.g., from screen time), repetitive activities, or injury and inflammation). Common areas affected include the neck, shoulders, back, and jaw. These shifts may also affect the autonomic nervous system, potentially leading to muscle spasms or discomfort, including involuntary neck movements.

However, it is important not to discontinue your contraceptive pill (method of hormonal birth control taken orally to prevent pregnancy) solely due to these symptoms without first consulting a healthcare provider. As for pregnancy, having neck spasms during your menstrual cycle does not, in itself, make conception unsafe, provided there are no other underlying medical issues. Neck twisting does not impact fertility or the ability to conceive.

Lastly, there is currently no direct evidence suggesting that this type of neck twisting, especially when linked to the menstrual cycle, is inherited.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert if there are any queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At September 3, 2025
Reviewed At September 5, 2025

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

menstrual cycleneck spasmbirth control pill

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.