Oral contraceptives are very effective at preventing pregnancies along with other benefits for certain conditions. Like most medications, side effects are possible. Here are a few to consider:
Nausea
: Some individuals may experience nausea, especially when starting a new pill or changing the dosage.
Breast tenderness
: Some people may experience increased breast tenderness or swelling.
Headaches
: Headaches, including migraines, can occur as a side effect of hormonal changes.
Mood changes
: Some people may notice changes in their mood, such as mood swings or increased irritability.
Weight changes
: While some individuals may experience slight weight gain, others may experience weight loss or no change at all.
Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
: Some individuals may experience irregular bleeding or spotting between periods, especially during the first few months of starting the pill.
Changes in menstrual flow
: Periods may become lighter, heavier, or more irregular for some individuals.
Decreased libido
: Some people may experience a decrease in sex drive while taking birth control pills.
Vaginal discharge
: Changes in vaginal discharge or dryness can occur in some individuals.
Increased risk of blood clots: There is a small increase in the risk of blood clots in individuals taking combination pills (those containing estrogen and progestin).
Changes in vision
: Some individuals may experience mild changes in their vision.
It’s important to note that these side effects are generally mild and tend to improve after a few months as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider to discuss alternative contraceptive options or adjust your current pill regimen.