Side Effects Of Hormonal Pills

Introduction

Hormonal birth control prevents pregnancy, as it is very effective compared to other birth control methods. They also serve other purposes, such as menstrual relief and skin changes. Birth control pills cause many side effects; like all drugs, there are beneficial effects and potential risks that are different for different people.

What Are Hormone Contraceptives?

Hormone contraceptives are medications or devices that can reduce the risk of pregnancy. These usually contain estrogen and progesterone hormone; some contain a combination of both, and some contain only progestin. These hormonal contraceptives can also help with the irregular menstrual cycle, heavy and painful cycle, acne, endometriosis (a condition caused by tissue similar to endometrium developing outside the uterus), and PMS (premenstrual syndrome).

In What Forms Are Hormonal Contraceptive Pills Available?

Birth control pills and patches are provided only with a prescription. There are various forms, such as:

• Pills (Oral Contraceptive): This will be in a pill form that should be taken daily. The difference in the brand is based on the amount of estrogen and progesterone present. People shift from one brand to another when they experience symptoms due to more or fewer hormones.

• Patch: The patch also consists of estrogen and progesterone hormone and should be changed once a week for complete effect. The patch is placed on the skin.

• Ring: Rings also release estrogen and progesterone hormones like pills and patches into the body. These rings are placed inside the vagina as the vaginal lining absorbs the hormones released by the rings. These rings should be replaced every month.

• Birth Control Shot: These birth control shots contain only progesterone hormone in the doctor’s office and to be administered every 12 weeks.

• IUDs (Intrauterine Devices): There are IUDs with and without hormones. Those IUDs with hormones usually contain only progesterone. An IUD is placed inside the uterus with the help of a doctor and is to be replaced every three to ten years, depending on the type.

• Implant: The implant is placed under the skin on the side of the upper arm under the guidance of a doctor. A thin rod releases progesterone hormone into the arms. It remains for up to three years, after which it should be changed.

Each type has similar benefits and risk factors but acts differently on different individuals. Effectiveness is based on how consistent the birth control pill is.

What Are the Side Effects?

Birth control pills cause an imbalance in hormonal levels, which leads to many side effects. These side effects usually fade away in two to three months after the treatment, but in some cases, they may persist. Some common side effects are:

• Spotting Between Periods: Breakthrough bleeding, or sightings referred to as vaginal bleeding, occurs between menstrual cycles. It usually occurs with IUDs, implants, and birth control pills. It looks similar to light bleeding or brown discharge. Spotting is a very common side effect of hormonal pills; it is caused as the body adjusts to the variations in the hormonal level as the uterus adjusts to having a thinner lining. Pills should be taken daily; taking pills simultaneously each day can prevent spotting.

• Nausea: Some people experience nausea during the initial stages, but it usually subsides and can be prevented by taking medications, eating food, or at bedtime. Switching to a pill with less estrogen can also help. Birth control should not make people feel sick; if it lasts longer, they should consult a doctor.

• Breast Tenderness: This is also one of the side effects that cause breast tenderness, usually soon after the treatment starts. Along with increased breast sensitivity, it also causes breasts to enlarge.

• Headache and Migraine: Birth control contraceptives can cause hormonal headaches due to an imbalance in the level of hormones. Changes in the estrogen level will trigger migraine, which depends on the dosage and type of pill. Menstrual or hormonal migraine is usually caused due to low levels of estrogen; in such cases taking the pill helps to deal with headaches.

• Weight Gain: Weight gain is one of the common side effects of birth control pills, but there is no scientific proof. Birth control pills usually retain the water in the body, increasing the water weight. But some people result in weight loss when taking contraceptive pills. So there is no proper research to confirm whether a birth control pill leads to weight gain or loss.

• Mood Swings: Hormones majorly affect a person's mood swings. Changes in the hormonal leave result in various mood swings. Mood-related side effects are more common in women who have experienced depressive episodes in their early life.

• Missed Periods: Taking birth control may result in a missed or light menstrual cycle and reduced menstrual cramps. Depending on the form of birth, a person can safely use a pill to skip a cycle. If a person doubts pregnancy, a pregnancy test should be done immediately as birth control pills prevent pregnancy, but there are chances of getting pregnant. Many factors can cause a delayed menstrual cycle, such as

• Stress.

• Illness.

• Travel.

• Hormonal problems.

• Thyroid.

• Vaginal Discharge: Vaginal discharge is common, but changes in the vaginal discharge may occur due to a decrease or increase in the vaginal lubrication or a change in the nature of the discharge. These changes are not complicated, but changes in nature, order, or color may be caused due to any infection.

• Hair Growth: Hormones in the birth control pill usually cause unwanted hair growth. Hormonal pills are the main treatment for hirsutism, which causes dark hair growth in the face, back, and abdomen.

What Are the Risk Factors of Hormonal Pills?

The hormonal pills are safe for most women but cause some risk factors in a few. Taking birth control pills causes risks such as:

• Blood clots, if it enters the lungs, can lead to serious damage and may be fatal.

• High blood pressure.

• Heart attacks.

• Stroke.

• It increases the risk of some forms of cancer and reduces the chance of others.

Hormonal Pills Are Not Safe for People:

• With hypertension.

• Smoker and over the age of 35 years.

• History of heart disease.

• Episodes of migraine with aura.

• Medical history of breast cancer or endometrial cancer.

Immediate Health Care Should Be Provided if These Symptoms Occur, Such As

• Severe abdominal pain.

• Chest pain and shortness of breath.

• Severe headache.

• Blurred vision or loss of vision.

• Swelling and pain in the legs and thighs.

Conclusion

Birth control pills contain estrogen and progesterone hormone that causes many side effects, which vary from person to person. These side effects usually cease two to three months after stopping the pill intake. These pills prevent pregnancy and serve other benefits like reducing menstrual cramps, heavy and painful cycles, and skin changes. Once medication intake is stopped, the body returns to the form just like before the start of hormonal pills. If the side effects prolong, it should be taken to the doctor's notice.