Side Effects and Risks of the Pill

Side Effects and Risks of the Pill

What are the possible side effects of the birth control pill

Although over 85% of women have mild to no side effects to the pill, it is important to know the serious side effects so that appropriate measures can be taken in time:

Mild side effects:Nausea, weight gain (about 2 kgs), fluid retention, breast tenderness, spotting between periods. These side effects usually subside in the first three months

Moderately serious side effects:Breast pain, discharge or engorgement; rash, itching or jaundice; reduced tolerance to contact lenses; headaches or migraines; nervousness or depression. If you experience any of these side effects, you should inform your doctor. The doctor may be able to prescribe another brand of the birth control pill that may be more suitable for you. He may also ask you to stop the pills completely and resort to a different form of contraception.

Serious side effects:Blood clots are a serious side effect of the pill. Blood clots will exhibit different symptoms depending on the part of the body where they form. Some of these symptoms are leg tenderness or swelling; sudden chest pain or shortness of breath, partial or complete loss of vision or blackouts; numbness in any part of the body. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should immediately stop the pill and consult your doctor.

For whom is the birth control pill not advisable

The pill is also not advisable for the following women:

Women over 35 who smoke;
Women with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease;
Women with past or present breast, uterus or liver cancer;
If a pregnancy is suspected

There are also other reasons when a pill is not advisable. Your gynaecologist would be in the best position to make this decision since she would know your and your family's medical history.

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