Hormones and Birth Control for athletes: anti-doping and performance
Athletes in regulated competitive sport face an additional layer of medication review beyond clinical considerations: whether Hormones and Birth Control (Hormones and Birth Control) is permitted under anti-doping rules, requires a Therapeutic Use Exemption, or is on the prohibited list at 1%, 1.62%, 0.3mg, 0.625mg, 1.25mg. The active ingredient Clomiphene, Conjugated Estrogens, Drospirenone, Estradiol, Estriol, Levonorgestrel, Levothyroxine, Progesterone, Raloxifene, Testosterone, Tibolone determines the answer; brand or generic version is irrelevant to anti-doping classification.
Anti-doping status of Hormones and Birth Control
The WADA Prohibited List and equivalent national lists are updated annually. Clomiphene, Conjugated Estrogens, Drospirenone, Estradiol, Estriol, Levonorgestrel, Levothyroxine, Progesterone, Raloxifene, Testosterone, Tibolone may be permitted at all times, prohibited in-competition only, prohibited at all times, or require a TUE depending on the agent and the sport. Some otherwise-routine medications are restricted at competition because of their pharmacological effects on cardiovascular, neuromuscular or hormonal systems. Emergency contraception with levonorgestrel (Plan B) is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours.
TUE and practical guidance
According to anti-doping authorities, an athlete who needs a prohibited or restricted medication for a legitimate medical reason can apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption before using it. The application requires medical documentation and may need to be approved before competition. Athletes should always check the most recent WADA list and their sport's federation rules before starting Hormones and Birth Control at 1%, 1.62%, 0.3mg, 0.625mg, 1.25mg.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hormones and Birth Control banned in sport? ▾
Whether Hormones and Birth Control is banned depends on Clomiphene, Conjugated Estrogens, Drospirenone, Estradiol, Estriol, Levonorgestrel, Levothyroxine, Progesterone, Raloxifene, Testosterone, Tibolone and the most recent WADA Prohibited List. Some agents are permitted, some restricted in-competition, some prohibited at all times. Always check the current list and TUE requirements before competition.
Will Hormones and Birth Control affect my performance? ▾
Performance effects depend on the medication and the sport. Some medications can mildly impair physical or cognitive performance through their side effects; others are essentially neutral at 1%, 1.62%, 0.3mg, 0.625mg, 1.25mg. Athletes should expect to experiment with timing relative to training in the first weeks.
Medications in Hormones and Birth Control
More on Hormones and Birth Control
- With alcoholHormones and Birth Control and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Hormones and Birth Control be taken with food?
- Side effectsHormones and Birth Control side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- For older adultsHormones and Birth Control after 60: doses and safety in older adults
- For womenHormones and Birth Control for women: indications and considerations
- For menHormones and Birth Control for men: indications and considerations
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.