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:
- Nausea
- Sore or swollen breasts
- Small amounts of blood, or spotting, between periods
- Lighter periods
- Mood changes
Other side effects are less common -- but more serious. If you have any of these, contact your doctor immediately:
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Headaches (mild)
- Eye problems (specifically, blurred vision)
- Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario on December 17, 2020
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.
From: Birth Control Pills
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