What are the Side Effects of Birth Control?

Birth control, while very effective in preventing pregnancy, can come with some side effects.

The good news is that most of these side effects are mild and tend to improve after the first few months of use as your body adjusts to the hormones. Here’s a breakdown of some common side effects to consider:

Combination Birth Control Pills:

Breakthrough Bleeding or Spotting: This is common, especially when you first start taking the pill. It happens because your uterine lining is thinning in response to the hormones.
Breast Tenderness: Your breasts might feel sore or swollen, especially in the first few cycles.
Headaches: Mild headaches can occur when you first start the pill.
Nausea: You might experience some nausea, particularly in the first month or two.
Mood Swings: Some women experience mood changes, like irritability or depression. If this is significant, talk to your doctor.

Progestin-Only Birth Control Methods (Minipills, IUDs):

Irregular Periods: You might have spotting, bleeding between periods, or even no periods at all. This is normal with progestin-only methods.
Breast Tenderness: Similar to combination pills, you might experience breast tenderness.
Acne: Some women experience an increase in acne.
Mood Changes: Mood swings can occur, though less common than with combination pills. Talk to your doctor if they’re severe.

Important Points to Remember:

Not everyone experiences side effects, and some women find that the benefits of birth control outweigh any minor inconveniences.
If you’re concerned about side effects, talk to your doctor. They can help you choose a birth control method that’s right for you and discuss ways to manage any side effects you experience.
Side effects typically improve after 2–3 months of use. If they persist or become bothersome, let your doctor know. They might recommend adjusting the dosage, trying a different type of birth control, or switching methods altogether.