Are there side effects of taking birth control pills?
ANSWER
Yes, there are side effects of birth control pills, although the majority are not serious. Side effects include:
The following side effects, easily remembered by the word "ACHES," are less common -- but more serious. If you experience any of these, contact your doctor immediately. If you cannot reach your doctor, go to an emergency room or urgent care center for evaluation. These symptoms may indicate a serious disorder, such as liver disease, gallbladder disease, stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, or heart disease. They include:
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Sore or swollen breasts
- Small amounts of blood, or spotting, between periods
- Lighter periods
- Mood changes
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Headaches
- Eye problems (specifically, blurred vision)
- Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs
From: Birth Control Pills WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Nivin Todd on August 12, 2016
SOURCES:
The National Women's Health Information Center.
ContraceptionNet.
Seasonale.
News release, FDA.
SOURCES:
The National Women's Health Information Center.
ContraceptionNet.
Seasonale.
News release, FDA.
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