Women’s health · FAQ
What side effects can Birth control combined or progestin-only pills cause?
Short answer
Birth control pills can cause spotting, nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, or mood changes. Risks differ between combined and progestin-only pills. Combined pills carry a risk of blood clots and stroke. Get urgent help for chest pain, trouble breathing, one-sided leg swelling, or sudden vision or speech changes.
Possible side effects of Birth control pills include bleeding between periods, nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, and mood changes. Some people have lighter bleeding or no bleeding, depending on the pill. Results vary. Tell your prescribing physician about symptoms that bother you, last a long time, or interfere with daily life.
Combined pills contain estrogen, which raises the risk of blood clots and stroke. They may not be appropriate for people with certain health conditions, including migraine with aura, a history of blood clots, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Smoking at age 35 or older also affects whether estrogen is suitable. Progestin-only pills have a different risk profile but are not right for everyone.
Seek emergency care for chest pain, trouble breathing, a swollen or painful leg, sudden severe headache, weakness on one side, or sudden vision or speech changes. Do not wait for an online reply.
For nonurgent side effects, contact your care team before changing your dose or switching pills. Your physician can review safer next steps.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.
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