Common Side Effects of the Contraceptive Pill

As long as you follow the instructions, contraceptive pills are an effective way of preventing unwanted pregnancies. However, like lots of women, you might be worried about the potential side effects associated with the tablets. The following guide should help ensure you know what to expect when you start taking these pills.

Combined pills

The most popular form of contraceptive pill is the combined version. Often referred to simply as ‘the pill’, it contains synthetic versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. If you take this type of contraception, you should find you experience lighter and less painful periods. It should also help ensure that your periods are regular and it can reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

In addition, these tablets can help to reduce acne and they can protect against certain medical problems, including pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids and ovarian cysts. They also lower the risk of cancer of the colon, ovaries and womb.

Contrary to popular belief, the pill does not cause women to put on weight. Studies have shown no evidence that these contraceptives lead to weight gain in most users. In the small proportion of cases where weight gain is seen, this is usually a temporary side effect that disappears within two to three months.

However, there are some negative side effects to be aware of. For example, the pill can cause headaches, nausea, breast tenderness and mood swings at first. If these symptoms don’t disappear within a few months, you may need to switch to a different pill. This form of contraceptive can also increase your blood pressure and it may cause spotting when you first start using it. It has also been linked to an elevated risk of blood clots and breast cancer.

Low-dose pills

For some people, the low-dose pill is a better option. This is also a combined contraceptive containing versions of oestrogen and progesterone. However, as its name suggests, it features reduced amounts of these hormones. This can help to minimise negative side effects such as breast soreness.

However, bear in mind that these pills are less effective than standard combined pills at regulating bleeding.

The mini pill

Another oral contraceptive is the progestogen-only pill. Often called the mini pill, this is designed for women who can’t take pills containing oestrogen. For example, it’s often recommended for individuals who have suffered blood clots, are overweight or who have high blood pressure.

The mini pill can reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and it may reduce period pain. However, it can make periods irregular and it may cause spotting. While rare, other potential side effects include acne, breast tenderness and enlargement, mood changes, headaches and migraines, nausea or vomiting, weight gain and ovarian cysts.

If these problems do arise, they usually improve over time and they should stop with a few months.

Whether you’re taking the combined pill, low-dose pill or mini pill, it can be difficult to predict exactly how your body will react. If you’re not happy with any of the side effects of the contraception you’re on, get in touch with a trained medical professional for advice.