subject: Common Side Effects Of Birth Control Pills - Bharatmoms [print this page] BCP's Side Effects BCP's Side Effects
Hormone-based birth control often comes with side effects that can range from slightly annoying to bad enough to make you switch. You may not know what you can tolerate until you've given a couple of them a try. But here are some solutions for the most common problems.
The major plus side of the pill is that it is 97""100%effective in preventing pregnancy. But this stat only applies to women who take the pill EVERYDAY. Some research shows that the pill (with estrogen and synthetic progesterone) reduces the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.
Based on information available, some of the common birth control medicine side effects include but are not limited to:
Headache, dizziness, breast tenderness
Acne, although birth control pills can also improve acne (see Birth Control Pills and Acne)
Breast tenderness and enlargement
Breakthrough bleeding and spotting between periods
Nausea and vomiting
Changes in your eyes that make it more difficult to wear contact lenses
Bloating
Changes in sex drive (typically a decrease).
Mood swings
Women are often concerned about weight gain due to birth control pills, but recent research suggests that birth control pills do not cause weight gain for most women
Who Should Not Use The Pill
Almost every woman can safely use the pill, but there are those that can't use the pill for birth control due to certain medical or other conditions. They can include women:
-- who have regular blood clots
-- who have cardiac problems
-- who have blood pressure
-- who have known liver ailments
-- who are on antibiotics and other strong medication
-- who are over the age of 35 and smoke
-- who have diabetes (can be taken only under medical supervision)
Women who are taking the tablets and experience any of the following must consult their gynecologist immediately.
-- Sudden shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain
-- Blurring of vision
-- Unexplained severe headache
-- Numbness in the arms
-- Severe abdominal cramps or pain
It is always advisable to visit your gynecologist and get a thorough check-up done before you start taking the pill. If you notice any abnormal symptoms please consult your gynecologist immediately.
