Because so many contraceptives work by injecting hormones into your body (usually estrogen and/or progestin), these contraceptives have side effects that mimic pregnancy or PMS. Different people respond differently to these hormones, so you will have to pay attention to how your body responds and be ready for your experience to differ from your neighbor's experience. Beware of the following common contraceptive side effects:
Irregular Bleeding
The contraceptive patch, injections, implants, ring and pill can all cause irregular bleeding. Perhaps most common is breakthrough bleeding, which is spotting or bleeding at times other than your regular menstrual period. While this side effect usually goes away after three months of contraceptive usage, it can be inconvenient to deal with as your body adjusts to the new hormones.
Increase or Decrease of PMS Symptoms
Since you will be experiencing extra estrogen and/or progestin (a form of progesterone), you may experience more or less moodiness, irritability, tenderness of your breasts and abdominal discomfort.
Headaches
A very common side effect of hormonal-based contraceptives is the development of headaches, some of which can be severe. If you have high blood pressure, this can be especially accentuated since many methods of birth control can trigger elevated blood pressure.
Weight Gain
Many forms of birth control will stimulate the appetite, especially hormonal birth control forms that mimic pregnancy. This can result in weight gain. Still others may cause nausea, making you feel you must eat or not eat, causing weight gain or loss.
Increased Risk for Blood Clots
If you have a history of blood clots, be very careful when selecting your method of birth control. Almost all hormonal-based contraceptives increase the chance of developing blood clots, which can be life threatening.
Acne
Increased levels of progestin can cause acne or clear acne, depending on your body's response to the hormone.
When beginning a new form of contraceptive practice, keep notes about any changes you experience, good or bad. This way you can evaluate the new form of birth control objectively when it comes time to renew your prescription. If you experience any severe or serious side effects, call your doctor and request a change to a new form of birth control.
 | The types of contraception available for women today are many and varied. Some methods help protect against STDs while others are designed for women in monogamous relationships who value convenience. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the methods available so you can choose the best one for you. |
 | If you're sexually active, you'll want to know the truth about these common contraceptive myths. |
 | If you're considering using oral contraceptives as a method of birth control, you'll want to investigate the many types available and the side effects (and benefits) often associated with each. |
The contraceptive sponge is a simple form of birth control that works much like a diaphragm without a prescription. |
If you want a form of birth control you won't have to think about, that does not put unwanted hormones into your body and is highly effective, you may want to consider using the IUD or Intrauterine contraceptive device. |
