Oral contraceptives are not suitable for everyone, and these 9 types of people should not take them lightly.
Oral contraceptives can not only prevent contraception, but their therapeutic effects cannot be ignored. Contraceptives are hormone-based contraceptive methods. In addition to contraception, they can also be used to treat irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, Acne and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) etc. But it doesn’t apply to everyone.
Who should not take birth control pills?
Women during pregnancy
Age 35+ years of age who have a habit of smoking or who have quit smoking in the past year but are over 35 years of age
Obese
Other medications
Persons with a current or past history of blood clots, stroke, or heart disease
Have a family history of blood clots before age 45
Severe migraine
Have or have a history of breast cancer or liver/pancreatic disease
20-year history of diabetes or diabetic complications
1. Intermenstrual bleeding
Intermenstrual vaginal bleeding may occur and usually disappear within 3 months of taking birth control pills. During taking the medicine, if you have continuous spotting bleeding for 5 days or more, or heavy bleeding for 3 days or more, you should seek medical attention in time. May indicate thinning of the lining of the uterus or disturbances in hormone levels.
2. Nausea
Some people experience nausea, but it usually goes away after a while. Taking with meals or at bedtime may help relieve symptoms. If nausea symptoms are severe or persist for more than 3 months, seek medical attention immediately.
What are the common side effects?
Image source: Figure Worm Creative
3. Chest discomfort
Taking birth control pills may cause breast discomfort. It usually disappears after a few weeks. If you notice a lump in your breast or persistent pain, it should be taken seriously.
4. Headaches and Migraine
Birth control pills contain hormones that can increase the risk of headaches and migraines. Different types and doses of birth control pills cause different symptoms. The risk of headaches is generally lower with lower doses. Over time, headache symptoms can improve.
Image source: Figure Worm Creative
5. Mood instability
Studies suggest that oral contraceptives may affect users’ mood, increasing their risk of depression or other mood changes. People who experience mood changes during medication should seek medical advice for active management.
6. Delayed period
Taking birth control pills may delay your period.
7. Affects libido
The hormones in birth control pills may affect libido. Some people may experience decreased libido, while others may experience increased libido. If it interferes with daily life, seek medical attention.
8. Eye discomfort
Birth control pills can affect hormone levels and thicken the cornea. Not that there is an increased risk of eye disease, and if you like to wear contact lenses, you may feel uncomfortable.
Author: Yuan Jufang, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attending Physician, Beijing Haidian Hospital
Editor: Chun Yujun