Take an informed decision- know the side-effects of birth control pills

The invention of the birth control pill heralded a new era for women as now they could have a say in family planning or avoid unwanted pregnancies. It is the most widely accepted form of birth control. The pill contains estrogen and progesterone to alter the process of ovulation by inhibiting the release of eggs by the ovaries for fertilization. It is important to remember that a birth control pill in no way protects you from sexually transmitted diseases.

Although the pill is extremely popular it is not without side-effects, some of which are mild and transient whereas others can be severe.

The most common side effect of birth control pill is weight gain which may not be very attractive especially to younger women.

Some women also experience bloating and fluid retention which is another cause of weight gain. Birth control pills containing a high dose of estrogen may contribute to fluid retention. Switching over to a pill with a lower dosage may help. Swelling of the arms and legs are other side effects of birth control pills.

Irregular menstrual bleeding, very light menstrual bleeding, missing periods for a long time or longer periods are some potential fall-outs of a contraceptive pill. Chances of vaginal discharges or infections, enlarged ovarian follicles, ectopic pregnancy are also increased due to birth control pills. Pain in the lower abdominals is also quite common as is cramping.

Nausea and vomiting are quite common for the first few cycles. Some women may have dizziness, migraines, severe headaches in which case the doctor should be consulted.

A serious though rare side-effect of birth control pills is the high risk of developing blood clots in the legs, lungs, heart or brain. Liver tumor, gall bladder diseases are other adverse effects of contraceptive pills though these happen only in rare cases.

Loss of libido, depression, and increase in blood pressure, anxiety and nervousness may also result from the continuous usage of birth control pills.

Darkening of skin in patches takes place in some women. Those on the pill may find an increase or decrease in acne, hair loss or increase in facial hair. Bone density loss, tender breasts are some other effects which a pill user may have to contend with. Women may be prone to cervical or breast cancer while on the pill though this matter is still under debate.

Although not very common, heart attacks are serious possibilities for women on the pill. Women who already have a heart problem history stand at greater risk of heart attacks while on the pill than women with no known heart problem history. Those who have diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels or are smokers have more chances of getting heart strokes in comparison to other users of the pill.

All the listed side-effects are not meant to frighten women off the birth control pills but to provide them with guidelines so that an informed decision can be taken in conjunction with the doctor.