Birth control pill: Side Effects & Benefits
Side Effects
The Positive
Positive "side effects"? You bet. There are actually lots of things about birth control that are good for your body as well as your sex life.
- Easy to use—just swallow with water
- Doesn’t interrupt the heat of the moment
- Might give you lighter periods
- Gives you control over when you have your period
- Some pills clear up acne
- Can reduce menstrual cramps and PMS
- Some pills offer protection against some nasty health problems, like endometrial and ovarian cancer, iron deficiency anemia, ovarian cysts, and pelvic inflammatory disease
The Negative
Everyone worries about negative side effects, but for many women, they’re not a problem. And if you do experience side effects, they’ll probably go away. Remember, you’re introducing hormones into your body, so it can take a few months to adjust. Give it time.
Things that will probably go away after two or three months:
- Bleeding in between periods
- Sore breasts
- Nausea and vomiting
Things that may last longer:
- A change in your sex drive
If you still feel uncomfortable after three months, switch methods and stay protected. You’re worth it.
*For a very small number of women there are risks of more serious side effects.
Articles & Videos
Article
Which Birth Control Pill is Right for Me?There are basically two different kinds of pills, the combination pill, and the mini-pill.
Provider Perspective
Late, Late, for a Very Important Pill?When your routine is a little off, you can still protect yourself from pregnancy.
Provider Perspective
A Quick Guide to Skipping Periods with Birth ControlIf you use the pill or the ring, you don't need magic powers to control your menstrual cycle.
Article
Is the Pill Killing Your Sex Drive?Research suggests that birth control probably isn’t to blame for a loss in libido—but you know your body best.
