Birth control pills are a popular method of preventing pregnancy. Unfortunately, taking them can have a number of side effects
What is hormonal contraception? It consists of administering synthetic hormones, which are derivatives of ethinyl estradiol and gestagens. Their purpose is to inhibit ovulation and prevent the fertilization of a mature egg cell. The effectiveness of hormonal contraception is as high as 99.8%.
As already mentioned, birth control pills can cause a number of side effects. This applies especially to older generation preparations, which contain high doses of hormones
What kind of complications have to be taken into account when using this type of contraception method? A large number of women complain of excessive irritability, mood swings and depressive states. In addition, intense headaches accompanied by vomiting and nausea can also occur. Other common side effects include water retention in the body and increased appetite, resulting in weight gain. Irritability of the breasts, particularly the nipples, and seborrhea may also occur
Sometimes menstruation lasts longer and is more intense than in women who do not use this method of contraception. When menstruation ends, discharge may occur. A popular problem among users of the contraceptive pill is also a decrease in libido.
The result of using this method of contraception is very often excessive weight gain. The increase in weight is caused among other things by water retention in the body. Women often complain that despite their diet and physical activity, it is difficult for them to get rid of the excess weight. Their body becomes swollen, and after pressing the skin does not return to its previous state. Swollen ankles and feet are an equally popular problem.
Another popular side effect of contraception is acne. Its appearance is most often associated with disruption of hormonal balance of the body. In such cases one should not stop taking the pills during the cycle. It may contribute to the intensification of symptoms. Instead, you should take all the pills from the blister and consult a gynecologist. Sometimes it may also be necessary to perform additional tests.
It is worth realizing that contraceptive pills can cause different kinds of dangerous health effects. One of the most serious is venous embolism and thrombosis. Taking this type of pill for many years significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart attack and development of liver, breast and uterine cancer. In addition, gallstones may also develop. In some cases, there may be an increase in bad cholesterol levels, decreased glucose tolerance resulting in diabetes, and menstrual suppression.
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, you should consult your gynecologist as soon as possible, who may order additional tests or change your method of contraception.
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