Common Side Effects of Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives are classified into two categories: the first type, known as combined pills, contains both synthetic estrogen and progestin. The second type consists of progestin only.
Both types can lead to common side effects, which typically do not persist throughout the entire duration of use. Here are the most frequently experienced side effects:
Nausea
Nausea is a common reaction experienced by many women when they first start taking oral contraceptives, especially during the initial three months. This sensation is attributed to the presence of estrogen in the pills, which can irritate the stomach lining. Other related symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
If vomiting occurs within two hours of taking a contraceptive pill, it is important to take another pill immediately, as the body may not have had enough time to absorb the medication, thereby preventing potential pregnancy.
Intermenstrual Bleeding
Taking oral contraceptives may also lead to light bleeding or brown discharge between menstrual periods. This is typically a result of the body adjusting to the new hormonal levels and the uterus adapting to a thinner lining. Usually, this side effect diminishes within six months of starting the pill.
Missing Periods
Another common side effect of birth control pills is the absence of menstrual periods. Menstrual cycles may return to normal after 2 to 3 months or slightly longer following the initiation of contraceptive use. This is due to hormonal changes created by the pills that affect the female body’s hormonal balance.
Weight Gain
Some women may experience weight gain while on oral contraceptives, though this is often due to fluid retention rather than fat accumulation. Typically, weight will normalize, and this side effect may resolve after 2 to 3 months. Studies indicate that weight may increase by approximately 4.4 pounds or less after 6 to 12 months of using progestin-only birth control.
Vaginal Discharge
Women may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, particularly during the first few months of taking oral contraceptives. This change usually subsides as the body adjusts to hormonal variations. The increased discharge is typically thin and is the result of elevated estrogen levels. This condition is generally considered normal and should not cause concern.
Headaches and Migraines
Headaches and migraines are among the common side effects associated with oral contraceptives, often subsiding within 2 to 3 months as the body adapts to hormonal changes.
Breast Tenderness
Many women may experience breast tenderness shortly after starting birth control pills, and they may also notice an increase in breast size. This reaction is typically linked to the hormonal content of the pills and usually resolves shortly after beginning use. However, a doctor should be consulted if severe pain or unusual changes occur in the breasts.
Mood Changes
Oral contraceptives may induce mood swings, such as increased irritability or fluctuating emotions between sadness and happiness. These changes are normal, as the pills affect female hormonal levels, and tend to diminish within 2 to 3 months.
Reduced Libido
The hormones found in combined oral contraceptives can decrease testosterone production, which is important for sexual drive. While testosterone is present in low quantities in women, its decrease can lead to lower libido. Fortunately, this side effect often resolves within 2 to 3 months of starting the medication.
Changes in Vision
Some women may experience changes in their vision, such as blurred or unclear sight, after initiating birth control pills. These alterations may be attributed to:
- Variations in estrogen and progesterone levels, affecting oil-producing glands in the eyes, leading to dryness and blurred vision.
- Estrogen may alter the cornea’s composition, making it more pliable, which can affect how light is refracted in the eye, causing visual disturbances.
- Research indicates that hormonal fluctuations from contraceptive use can increase corneal thickness, influencing vision.
While these changes do not generally indicate a heightened risk for eye diseases, they may cause discomfort for some when wearing contact lenses. These symptoms typically subside within 2 to 3 months after beginning the medication.
Long-term Effects of Oral Contraceptives
Prolonged use of oral contraceptives may lead to more serious yet uncommon effects, some of which are based on ongoing scientific studies and may apply to specific women under certain conditions. The long-term effects may include:
Increased Risk of Certain Cancers
Long-term use of oral contraceptives may elevate the risk of developing particular cancers, as the hormones progestin and estrogen can promote the growth of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer. Furthermore, using birth control pills for more than five years has been associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer, as it can render the cervix more susceptible to infection by high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV).
Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Issues
Combined oral contraceptives may raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases, though this occurs infrequently and usually in minimal degrees with prolonged usage. These can lead to heart attacks, blood clots, and strokes on rare occasions; therefore, women with elevated blood pressure or a family history of cardiovascular issues should consult a healthcare professional before starting oral contraceptives.
When to Consult a Doctor Regarding Oral Contraceptives
Women using oral contraceptives should seek immediate medical assistance if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe chest pain with sudden shortness of breath or coughing up blood
- Sudden onset of a severe headache accompanied by nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Sudden partial or complete loss of vision
- Feeling a lump or mass in the breast
- Severe abdominal pain
- Insomnia, weakness, or significant mood changes
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, indicating possible jaundice
How to Alleviate Oral Contraceptive Side Effects
There are several strategies to help mitigate the common side effects associated with oral contraceptives:
- Making lifestyle changes may help alleviate nausea by:
- Avoiding fatty, fried, or sugary foods.
- Eating light meals and several small snacks throughout the day.
- Staying adequately hydrated by drinking sufficient water.
- Consuming ginger tea.
Article Summary
It is essential for women to consult with their healthcare provider before using any form of contraception. They should provide a comprehensive medical and family history. Oral contraceptives, like any other medication, may result in common side effects that typically resolve after the body adjusts within a few months. However, serious side effects may arise with prolonged use.