Women’s health · FAQ
What side effects can women’s health medicines cause?
Short answer
Side effects depend on the medicine. Birth control may cause spotting, nausea, or breast tenderness. Some PCOS medicines cause stomach upset, dizziness, or changes in potassium. UTI antibiotics may cause nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infections. Ask your physician which warning signs apply to your specific prescription before starting treatment.
Each women’s health medicine has its own side effects. Your physician and pharmacist can explain the risks for the exact prescription you receive. Read the medication information before taking your first dose, including any instructions about food or missed doses.
Hormonal birth control may cause spotting, nausea, breast tenderness, or headaches. Methods containing estrogen can raise the risk of blood clots in some people. PCOS medicines have different risks: metformin can cause stomach upset, while spironolactone can cause dizziness or high potassium. These examples do not apply to every PCOS plan.
UTI antibiotics may cause nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infections. Some have important risks tied to allergies, kidney function, pregnancy, or other medicines. Severe or bloody diarrhea needs prompt medical advice.
Seek emergency care for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain, sudden weakness, or a severe sudden headache. Contact your care team about other concerning symptoms. Do not change your dose without guidance.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.
Related questions
- What dose of metformin ER and spironolactone is used for PCOS care?
- What is the usual dose of nitrofurantoin 100 mg for UTI treatment?
- What does women’s health care for birth control, PCOS, or a UTI cost?
- What dose of Birth control daily pills will I be prescribed?
- How should I take Birth control daily pills and start my first pack?