You’ve been prescribed the birth control pill. Great! Now what? For most women, the birth control pill is an excellent way to prevent pregnancy or relieve serious menstrual problems with very few side effects. In fact, most women do not have any side effects at all. This being said, there is a time right after you begin taking the pill when you may experience one or more of the following problems. Generally, these problems are temporary. Call us right away if the problems are severe or continue after a few months.
Bleeding/Spotting
It is common to bleed lightly or spot between your periods when you first start taking the birth control pill. This is a sign that your body is getting used to the adjustments in the hormones that cause your menstruation cycle. This bleeding or spotting should only be temporary.
Constant Bloating
You may also feel bloated after you start taking the birth control pill. This bloating may feel like the bloating that you have right before your period. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep hydrated and encourage your body to release the bloat water.
Frequent Headaches
Unfortunately, some women experience frequent headaches when they are on the birth control pill. If you are having this problem, call us right away so we can adjust your dosage or try a different pill. Not all birth control pills are the same, and one may work better for you.
High Blood Pressure
One rare side effect of taking the birth control pill is high blood pressure. As such, it is important that you check your blood pressure regularly while you are taking the birth control pill. Your blood pressure is considered high if your systolic number is 130 or higher. It is also considered high if the diastolic number is 80 or above. Call us right away if you have high blood pressure.
Nausea/Vomiting
One uncomfortable side effect of the birth control pill is nausea and/or vomiting. It may be a good idea to take the birth control pill when you have a full stomach to prevent this side effect. If this does not resolve the issue, give us a call to schedule an appointment.
Tender Breasts
Finally, we mentioned above that the birth control pill can make you bloat. It can also cause your breasts to become tender to the touch. Again, this symptom is much like how your breasts get tender right before you menstruate.
If you are having side effects from the birth control pill, give us a call to schedule an appointment with one of our gynecologists. We would be happy to offer other methods of birth control or change your prescription.
