Side effects of the contraceptive pill

As with all types of prescription medication, there are common side effects of the pill that women should know of when purchasing oral contraception for the first time. Side effects of contraceptive pills in the UK differ according to type, brand and the individual using them. It’s also important to be aware of the possibility of contraceptive pill side effects when switching from a combined oral contraceptive (COC) to a progestogen-only pill (POP) and vice versa, as it may take a while for the body to fully adjust the different concentration of hormones.

Many women notice breakthrough bleeding and spotting in the first few months of taking the pill. Other temporary side effects of contraceptive pills are not limited to but include: headache, nausea, rise in blood pressure, fluid retention, behavioural changes, increased or decreased libido, breast tenderness and breast enlargement.

Less frequent side effects of combined oral contraceptive (COC) pills are: an increased risk of developing blood clots in veins, a condition also known as deep vein thrombosis. Combined contraceptive pills can also marginally increase the risk of developing breast or cervical cancer.

The mini pill (POP) is said to cause fewer side effects due to the absence of the hormone oestrogen, however headache, behavioural changes and breast tenderness have been reported by women using this method of birth control.

Birth Control Risks and Complications

For a doctor to be sure that it is safe for you to go on the pill they must be fully aware of your medical history and any conditions you have that may increase the risk of side effects. Long-term complications that may disqualify women from using contraceptive pills include:

• Eye problems or vision impairment
• Gallbladder disease and gallstones
• Embolism
• Resistance to insulin
• Immune system suppression
• Heart problems or stroke
• Breast tumours and liver tumours
• Ectopic Pregnancies
• History of certain cancers such as cervical cancer
• Blood clots in legs, lungs, heart and brain
• Jaundice

Can other medication cause contraceptive pill side effects?

Both COC and POP contraception can become less effective if you're already using certain epilepsy medications, and some medicines for treating bacterial infections. St John's wort can also cause the pill to become less effective at preventing pregnancy.

The same is true for some antibiotics, such as ampicillin and doxycycline. For this reason you and your partner should use a barrier form of contraception, such as a condom, during your antibiotic treatment and for seven days after stopping.

How can I make sure the pill is safe for me to use?

When you order oral contraception from 121doc you will be asked to fill out a private medical consultation form online. An EU registered doctor will carefully check your medical background before deciding whether you are suitable to use your chosen brand of pill. If your consultation is approved your contraceptive tablets will be dispatched the same day from the 121doc pharmacy. If the doctor feels that particular pill is unsafe for you to use, you may be recommended a suitable alternative brand, or a progestogen-only pill.