The Birth Control pills, which are also known as "The Pill", are considered the safest method to prevent unwanted pregnancy. When taken correctly and timely, they are a highly effective contraceptive. Mostly, around 62% of women of reproductive age were using contraceptives according to NHSR (National Health Statistics Reports).
There are basically two types of contraceptive pills which are synthetic forms of hormones produced naturally in the body. They either contain progestin alone or estrogen and progestin together. These hormones regulate women’s menstrual cycle, so their fluctuating levels affect fertility.
But apart from preventing pregnancy, there are many pros of using birth control pills, which include menstrual cramping, regularity of menstrual cycle, acne-free skin, and lower risk of ovarian cysts as well as ovarian and endometrial cancer.
Birth control has many side effects which your doctor may not tell you. Before starting intake of the pill, carefully read this information.
Here are top 10 side effects of birth control pills:
1. Headaches and Migraine
A headache and migraine may be caused due to fluctuations of hormones due to birth control pills. There are certain control pills which can lead to a decrease in the estrogen level in the body. A low estrogen level may lead to aggravating migraines or a headache if you already suffer from them.
According to a 2005 study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, most women suffer from a headache within a month of starting the estrogen-progestin oral contraceptive pills. However, with continuous use, there is improvement in headaches.
If you are suffering from a headache, consider taking another pill which contains fewer doses of hormones.
2. Nausea
For the starters, nausea experience is natural. This mild side effect often resolves within a few days.
Nausea is basically a result of the additional estrogen, which can irritate the stomach. Pills that contain a high dose of estrogen are more likely to cause nausea than those with a lower dose.
Taking the pill timely, before bedtime and with food may help. Also, taking antacids about 30 minutes before pills may help keep the stomach calm. An important thing is the timely intake of pills.
If the problem persists, you may need to see the doctor.
3. Breast Tenderness
The birth control pills may also cause breast tenderness or enlargement. This is a mild side effect that tends to improve within weeks after starting the pill. This again can happen due to hormonal changes caused by the pill.
For women who use only progestin-only pills, the problem arises more compared to those who take combined oral contraceptive pills that contain both progestin and estrogen.
4. Breakthrough Bleeding
According to a 2006 report published in the Journal of Family Practice, these four factors contribute to breakthrough bleeding:
- Physiologic effects of oral contraceptives on the endometrium
- Oral contraceptive-related parameters (dose, formulation, and regimen)
- Patient behavior (compliance, using concomitant medications, and smoking)
- Benign or malignant pathology
If the problem persists for more than five or more days, consult a doctor.
5. Weight Gain
There is a common complaint about weight gain in the early days of using birth control pills. This weight gain is usually temporary and is often due to water retention rather than actual fat increase.
More often, the pill that has a high dose of estrogen causes this side effect. A high estrogen level can affect appetite and promote water retention. It may lead to fat deposits in the thighs, hips, and breasts.
Again, opt for less estrogen in the pill if you are concerned with the weight gain. And make a healthy and balanced diet your daily plan along with exercise and yoga.
6. Yeast Infection
A vaginal infection is caused by the higher level of estrogen, which leads to changes in hormonal balance.
The vaginal infection may lead to itching, burning, soreness, or irritation in sensitive areas like the vagina and vulva — another uncomfortable side effect of birth control pills.
According to a University of Michigan School of Public Health study published in 2006, the risk for a yeast infection was doubled by use of oral contraceptives and tripled by spermicides.
For women with poorly controlled diabetes, a diet high in sugar or alcohol, or a weakened immune system, the risk is even higher.
When taking the pill, some women experience vaginal discharge as pills lead to hormonal changes in the body.
7. Mood Swing
Mood swings, as well as symptoms of depression, are another side effect that some women may experience during pill use.
This occurs because the synthetic hormones can affect the balance of certain neurotransmitters, leading to mood swings and emotional changes.
A 2003 study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology reports that oral contraceptive use is likely to deteriorate premenstrual mood in women with a history of depression, while improving it in women with early-onset premenstrual mood disturbance or dysmenorrhea.
Another study published in Contraception (2012) confirms that young women with psychological symptoms are at risk for perceived side effects and discontinuation.
For depression problems, talk to your doctor before starting the pill. A non-hormonal birth control may be a better option.
8. Visual Changes
Women who wear contact lenses may experience changes in vision. This is not directly related to birth control pills but rather hormonal changes that result in fluid retention and corneal swelling, affecting lens fit.
Long-term use may also be linked to glaucoma, a condition that damages the eye's optic nerve.
A 2016 study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that oral contraceptive use for three or more years may increase the risk of glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
9. Blood Clots
Blood clots are a less common but serious side effect of oral contraceptives.
Women who smoke, are overweight, are over 35, or have recently given birth are at higher risk. Combined oral contraceptives further increase this risk.
According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the risk of blood clots is approximately 3–9 per 10,000 women annually among those using oral contraceptives.
A BMJ 2015 study reports that current exposure to any combined oral contraceptive was associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, except for norgestimate.
Consult your gynecologist about side effects before trying newer versions of pills. Seek help immediately if you experience breathing problems, chest pain, or leg swelling.
10. Decreased Libido
Some people's sex life is negatively affected by birth control pills. Hormones in the pills may reduce testosterone, affecting sexual desire and performance.
This can lead to reduced interest in intercourse, decreased ability to orgasm, and increased pain during sex.
A 2012 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found associations between oral contraceptives and increased pain during intercourse, decreased libido, diminished arousability, and reduced frequency of orgasm.
Additional Tips
- There are many different types of oral contraceptive pills available. Consult your doctor to choose the right one.
- It is important to take the pills every day at the same time.
- These pills do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
- Oral contraceptives may interfere with other medications you are taking.
- These pills are not suitable for those who smoke or have a blood-clotting disorder.
- It’s best to stop taking birth control pills immediately if you suspect you’re pregnant.
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