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Birth Control & Women's Health

Can Spironolactone Be Used as Birth Control?

Linda Girgis | MD

Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.

Spironolactone is not approved as birth control and should not be relied upon as contraception. While this diuretic medication can cause irregular menstrual cycles and reduced fertility in some women, these effects are unpredictable and inconsistent. Studies show spironolactone may disrupt ovulation in approximately 30-40% of users, but this varies significantly between individuals. The medication is primarily prescribed for conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, and hormonal acne. Women taking spironolactone who wish to avoid pregnancy should use proven contraceptive methods like birth control pills, IUDs, or barrier methods, as the drug's anti-androgenic effects cannot guarantee pregnancy prevention.

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