Most combined pills are well tolerated and have few side effects. However, symptoms such as headaches, breast tenderness, spotting, and nausea may occur, especially during the first three months of use. Some women also report increased appetite and weight gain, as well as mood swings. In addition, it is also possible that female libido may be lowered as a result of taking the pill.
Severe side effects are rare
In rare cases, taking the pill can also cause more severe side effects. These include, for example, the occurrence of thrombosis, which in the worst case can lead to a life-threatening embolism. However, such side effects usually only occur in combination with certain risk factors. These include obesity, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and diseases of the blood vessels. Mood swings and depression – even suicidal thoughts – are also among the possible side effects.
If such risk factors are present, the attending physician will decide on a case-by-case basis whether or not the patient can be prescribed a combined pill. Breastfeeding mothers and women who suffer from estrogen intolerance should not take a combined pill. In such cases, a mini-pill is usually used instead.
However, the mini-pill also has side effects. These are relatively similar to the side effects of the combined pill: among other things, headaches, nausea, intermittent bleeding, and weight and mood swings can also occur here.
What other serious side effects are possible?
Especially when taking the combined pill, the risk of a heart attack or stroke increases after the age of 35. Similar to thrombosis, smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure are considered additional risk factors here.
According to current knowledge, there does not appear to be a general link between the pill and the development of cancer. However, the contraceptive pill is suspected of slightly increasing the risk of breast cancer. This risk is expected to decrease again within about five years after discontinuation of the pill.
Also under discussion is a connection with the development of cervical cancer. While some studies suggest that long-term use of the pill increases the risk of developing this type of cancer, there is also evidence that the pill protects against the development of cervical and ovarian cancer. The exact relationships are not yet clear.
Positive side effects of the pill
However, the pill can not only have negative side effects, but also have a positive effect on our body. For example, taking it eliminates fluctuations in the cycle. In addition, menstruation is usually shorter and weaker.
Often, taking the pill improves the appearance of the skin, which is why it is also prescribed to young girls who have impure skin. In addition, the pill can also protect against the development of breast or ovarian cysts.
Pill: contraindications
The birth control pill is generally suitable for all women of childbearing age, but in certain circumstances it is not recommended to take the pill. Contraindications include:
- An existing pregnancy
- Severe liver damage
- An increased risk of or a previous or existing thrombosis.
- An increased risk for or a previous or existing myocardial infarction or stroke.
- Metabolic diseases such as diabetes
- Severe hypertension
- Regular cigarette consumption (especially in women over 35 years).