10 most common side effects of oral contraceptives

Inter-menstrual spotting: approximately 50 percent of people using the pill experience vaginal bleeding between expected periods, most commonly within the first 3 months of starting to take the pill. Nausea: some people experience mild nausea when first taking the pill, but symptoms usually subside after a short period of time. Breast tenderness: birth control pills may cause breast enlargement or tenderness. This tends to improve a few weeks after starting the pill, but anyone who finds a lump in the breast or who has persistent pain/tenderness or severe breast pain should seek medical help.

Headaches: anyone who experiences new onset of headaches when taking the pill should seek medical attention.

Weight gain: clinical studies have found no consistent association between the use of birth control pills and weight fluctuations. However, many people taking

the pill report experiencing some fluid retention, especially in the breast and hip areas.

Mood changes: people with a history of depression are recommended to discuss this with their medical provider as some people do experience depression or

other emotional changes while taking the pill.

Missed periods: there are times when despite proper pill use, a period may be skipped or missed. Several factors can influence this, such as stress, illness, travel, and hormonal or thyroid abnormalities. If a period is missed or is very light while on the pill, a pregnancy test is recommended prior to taking the next pack of pills.

Decreased libido: the hormone(s) in the contraceptive pill can affect sex drive (libido) in some people.

Vaginal discharge: some people experience changes in vaginal discharge when taking the pill. This can range from an increase to a decrease in vaginal lubrication, an alteration in the nature of the discharge, and changes which can affect sexual intercourse.

Visual changes with contact lenses:

contact lens wearers should consult their ophthalmologist if they experience

any changes in vision or lens tolerance during pill use. – www.medicalnewstoday.com