The birth control pill is a method of hormonal contraception. It contains either estrogen or progesterone. There are also mixed pills, which contain both estrogen and progesterone. Used correctly, birth control pills are very effective. Used incorrectly, they can lead to an unwanted pregnancy, as happens annually in 10% of the cases of women who use contraceptive pills.
What are the side effects of birth control pills?
The incorrect use or over a much longer period of time of contraceptive pills can generate side effects. The effects can also occur because of the hormones that the pill contains. Some of these side effects can be found below.
Sensitive breasts, effect of the contraceptive pill
This effect can appear in the first days of administration of the contraceptive pill. After a few days, this symptom disappears, because the body gets used to the hormones contained in the contraceptive pill.
Bleeding between periods
A high percentage of women who use this contraceptive treatment mention the fact that in the first months after taking the pills, they experienced bleeding between periods. This is a normal effect of the use of contraceptive pills, with the mention that the bleeding should be very small. If this lasts more than 3 days, it is recommended to go to a specialist consultation.
Headaches
If you use birth control pills, you may also experience mild to moderate headaches. If they become severe or persist, the best solution is to seek specialized medical help.
Extra pounds, a side effect of contraceptive pills
Weight gain can be a side effect of taking birth control pills. These can, in some cases, lead to water retention in the body, especially in the area of the breasts and hips. This side effect is encountered in quite a few cases.
Using birth control pills can lead to mood swings
Because birth control pills are based on hormones, they can help change your emotional states. If these mood changes persist, it is advisable to contact the specialist doctor, to find a solution in this case.
Low libido
There are many causes that lead to low libido. One of these may even be related to the administration of contraceptive pills. If this problem persists, make an appointment with a specialist to find out the exact cause of the low libido.
Changes in vaginal secretions
In some cases, the administration of pills can lead to changes in vaginal secretions, especially during the initial period of their administration. At the same time, a changed vaginal secretion can be a sign of an infection, so it is best to find out exactly what is the real cause of the change in vaginal secretions, through a specialist consultation.
Are there cases in which the administration of the contraceptive pill is contraindicated?
The use of contraceptive pills is contraindicated for people who have a history or high risk of cardiovascular diseases and liver diseases. That is why specialist consultation is recommended, as well as additional investigations, before starting contraceptive treatment. In cases where this option is contraindicated, the specialist can find alternative contraceptive solutions.
Contraceptive pills can also be recommended in the treatment of conditions such as endometriosis, acne, menorrhagia, having a rather important role in the treatment of ovarian and endometrial cancer.
