Some Effects of Birth Control Pills

Almost any artificially produced substance will have side effects on an individual and the contraceptive or birth control pill is no exception. This is because it is composed of artificially produced hormones. These hormones then act on the body in order to produce the intended effects.

These effects no doubt are produced effectively and have prevented millions of women from becoming pregnant. However, there might be a price to pay in the case of some women. Some of the side effects produced by birth control pills include the following:

Weight gain or water retention

It is obvious that the body not only may submit to the intended effects of the artificial hormones but may also undergo further changes. In this case, the body does not release or excrete excess water in the body and this is what causes one to apparently gain weight.

Menstruation problems

Another side effect of consuming the pill is that the menses may not be able to adjust. Based on a woman’s body chemistry this could be understood more deeply.

However, on the surface one may assert that it is because of the direct action of hormones on the uterus and surrounding parts that causes a change in the menstrual cycle. Though most women manage to adjust to the changes that occur, it is possible that some may experience problems.

Blood clotting

Blood clots have also been known to occur especially in women who smoke. Clotting is not common in women who do not smoke and are under the age of 35.

Other side effects of birth control pills include:

• Darkened spots of the skin
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Dizziness

These are caused by the alteration of hormone level in the blood, also accompanied by mood changes. This is because of the fact that one’s hormone level directly influence the way that one feels.

In view of all the side effects that are known to take place with use of birth control pills, it can be asserted that during the course of the first three months or so they diminish. This is because the body gradually learns to conform to the new hormonal levels.

When one experiences side effects it is advised to consult a doctor. In some cases, the doctor will prescribe another brand of birth control pills.

Aside from the side effects that cause women severe trouble in some cases, there are also reactions to the pills that make one’s body functions a little easier.

Some positive reactions of birth control pills

Reactions may result after the birth control pill is used by a woman for the first time. This includes lighter periods and reduction in cramps. It is because of these characteristics that a doctor may prescribe birth control pills for women who have heavy menses. In this way it serves them two purposes. The first is that their periods are lightened and the second is that they are protected against becoming pregnant.

It is also known that those suffering from acne may see positive changes when using birth control pills as acne is reduced when one takes these pills regularly. Physicians may even recommend a woman to use the pill for this reason.

Also, though it is said that those who take the birth control pills have higher chances of developing breast cancer, contrary views hold that some pills may actually protect one from breast disease, cysts in the ovaries and anemia etc.