- Menstrual changes, cramping and spotting
Birth control methods start affecting your menstrual cycle. So it's no surprise that the most common side effects revolve around changes in periods. Many things can change when you start with a new method. Your period can get heavier; or lighter, or you may have some unexpected spotting.
Premenstrual syndrome may go away; or, unfortunately, get worse and you can be moodier than usual. You may also feel more cramping than before. Many of these side effects are normal and will ease with time. Quite a few methods are known for causing trouble in the period department, especially the pill, E-pills, IUDs and injectables (Depo-Provera). - Headaches
If you have splitting headaches and you are not sure why, your birth control method could be to blame. Especially if you have started using it recently. Common culprits for headaches are the pill, E-pills and hormonal IUDs. Headaches caused by contraception often disappear over time. However sometimes, the pill can even relieve your existing headaches. - Nausea
It's unfair, isn't it? You use birth control methods to avoid pregnancies and morning sickness and you still get nauseous. Hormonal methods are to blame for this one, the pill and E-pills in particular, but also the implant.
Just like with many other symptoms, nausea will usually get better and go away within the first few weeks. Try taking the pill after a light meal and not on an empty stomach. See if this improves your symptoms. - Allergies
If you or your partner feel itchy and scratchy every time you use a condom, you could be allergic to latex. If that's the case, try latex-free condoms. If you are allergic to any of the components in other methods, like the pill, things can get quite scary and dangerous. If you have allergies to certain medications, please tell your doctor before deciding on a new birth control method. - Skin changes
When using contraception, you may notice changes in your skin, both good and bad. Implants, for example, can cause acne, while certain types of the pill can help a lot with clearing up any skin issues. If you have had skin problems in the past, it is a good idea to take this into consideration. - Weight changes
It's a myth that all birth control methods lead to weight gain. But unfortunately, quite a few women do gain weight when they start using a new method. For some women, this weight may disappear as effortlessly as it came. While for others, it will take considerable effort to go back to their normal weight. Methods most known for weight gain are pills and injectables. - Pregnancies
Yes, you read that right! A common adverse effect of the more unreliable methods, like withdrawal or natural methods is pregnancy. They are difficult to use correctly. Errors can happen and quite a few women do get pregnant. - Vaginal irritation and discharge
Diaphragm and sponges, as well as spermicides can cause redness, itchiness and irritation around the vagina. Especially if they are left in for too long. Even changes in discharge are possible. Generally, these symptoms should go away as soon as you remove the diaphragm or sponge, or stop using spermicides, but you might want to use another method if this happens more often.
Other less common side effects
The pill is to blame for a number of other possible side effects, like cholasma (dark patches of skin in your face) dizziness and breast tenderness. IUDs come with a risk of expulsion, implants can get lost or have tissue around them, and sterilisation can cause psychological issues, mainly related to doubts about having made the right decision.
Disclaimer: These are general side effects. In some cases, there are more severe reactions that can cause considerable health issues. If you suspect your contraception method is causing you problems, please consult your doctor.
Source: Zieman, M. & Hatcher R. (2012): Managing Contraception. Bridging the Gap Foundation.
This article was first published on Jan 29, 2016.
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Udaan Collaborative is a network of private sector stakeholders including general practitioner, gynecologist, pharmacists, and organizations who focused on making sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services more accessible and youth-friendly across India. It provides a digital platform with resources like a chatbot, helpline, and access to healthcare providers, aiming to offer young people a safe, private, and non-judgmental space for their health needs.