Birth Control Side Effects
Birth control methods are useful in avoiding pregnancy. However, there are several side effects of birth control which have been discussed in this article. Here is information on the same. Read on.
Birth Control Side Effects and Birth Control Means
Of late, birth control has become a debated topic in the medical fraternity. Since not all women experience side effects because of birth control, what stands true for an individual may not be the same for others. Before using a specific birth control method or contraceptive pill, it is not easy to exactly know what can be the possible side effects a woman may face. There is no need to panic about every side effect of birth control. But, it is advisable to select a birth control method only after consultation with a gynecologist.
There are various options for birth control and depending on the method an individual is opting, side effects vary. Amongst several methods of birth control, oral contraceptives are the most popular ones. Hormonal shots or injections are another option for preventing pregnancy. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are another birth control measure that involve the use of levonorgestrel, inserted in the woman's vagina. These IUDs work by killing the sperms entering the vagina. Hormones like progestin present in IUDs either thicken a woman's cervical mucus blocking entry of sperms or they prevent ovaries from releasing eggs. Other birth control methods like using skin patch or contraceptive rings can also result in certain side effects. Mostly, birth control complications result from hormonal changes brought about by the contraceptives. Although, there are not many conclusive studies, generally risks of birth control shots are more intense than those of birth pills.
Hormonal Shot or Injections Side Effects
The injection of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is generally given to women to avoid pregnancy for three months. The injections must be taken after every 3 month under the guidance of a trained medical professional. Hormonal injections come with the side effect of reduced bone density and risks of cardiovascular diseases. Teenagers taking these injections may find bone density as a cause of concern because it is during these years that the bone formation is at its peak. This also increases the risk of bone injuries for women who take DMPA shots. However, medical research is still not very vocal about this side effect. Nevertheless, teenagers can try other options, to minimize any such risk. Women who smoke and drink are advised to stop doing so if they're on birth control by taking DMPA injections because it increases risk of heart problems and high blood pressure issues. Also, dizziness, weakness, fatigue and unpredictable bleeding are other side effects of hormonal injections.
Skin Patches and Vaginal Rings Side Effects
Contraceptive skin patches are adhesives of nearly 1.75 square inches that are worn on the skin. These patches release hormones namely, estrogen and progestin into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. Usually, they're worn on the chest, buttocks, abdomen, upper/back arm except on breasts. Similarly, vaginal rings are plastic rings that are inserted in the upper part of vagina and it doesn't interfere during intercourse. Possible side effects of vaginal rings include vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal discharge, headaches, weight gain and nausea. The side effects of skin patches include nausea, breast tenderness, headache, skin irritation.
Birth Control Pills Side Effects
Women with certain health complications may experience more health risks after taking birth control pills than healthy women. Some of the medical conditions that have been known to amplify birth control side effects are liver diseases, diabetes, breast cancer, reproductive problems and high blood pressure conditions. Smoking also increases the chances of poor health and pregnancy issues resulting from birth control pills. That's why doctors advise women who take birth control pills, to avoid smoking. Depending on the chemical hormones present in your birth control pill that may be estrogen and progesterone, the side effects may vary.
Headache, Dizziness and Breast Tenderness
These are the most common side effects resulting from birth control pills' usage. Doctors advise women experiencing these effects not to panic or feel nervous as these effects subside within a few hours after taking the pills. In case, a woman experiences the same effects after taking the pills occasionally, changing brands can help.
Nausea
Nausea may fade away within a few weeks to a few months. Women using skin patches and rings can also try switching brands if they feel nauseated with the use of a particular birth control pills' brand.
Low Libido
Since birth control contraceptives bring changes in hormone production and release, women may experience lack of sex drive, when on birth control pills. In case of such side effects, it is safer to go for other methods of birth control.
Bleeding
It is not uncommon for women to experience vaginal bleeding when they are on birth control. Vaginal bleeding (or breakthrough bleeding), is generally experienced during the first few months of taking contraceptives. Breakthrough bleeding when on birth control pills, occurs as a result of the body's attempts to adjust to the hormonal changes caused by the pill intake.
Mood Swings
Birth control methods have a common side effect of causing mood swings in women. Similar to how hormonal changes in the course of a woman's menstrual cycle cause mood swings, birth control can have the same effect on women, on account of the hormonal changes it leads to.
The utility of birth control methods can't be ignored as they are a commonly used means of avoiding unwanted pregnancy. However, since birth control methods have side effects, it is good to consult a doctor before going for them. After all, sexual health is an important part of your well-being.
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