Birth Control Pills - How They Affect You?

Birth control pills are one of the most common ways women protect themselves against unwanted pregnancy. There are many types of birth control pills available and you must consult a gynaecologist before using any birth control pill. Birth control pills are relatively safe to use but do more than simply prevent pregnancy.

Some of the effects of birth control pills are:

1. Changes in the menstrual cycle: The use of birth control pills can lead to shortened period or can cause a larger interval between periods. In many cases, birth control pills are prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles. The use of birth control pills has also been linked with fewer menstrual cramps and lesser painful periods. However, they can also cause vaginal bleeding between periods and spotting. This is caused by body’s reaction to different hormone levels and thinner endometrial lining. Spotting and bleeding between periods is usually seen in the first three months of starting to take birth control pills.
2. Weight gain: Oestrogen in birth control pills can make the fat cells larger than normal and hence cause weight gain. Some women also complain of fluid retention in the breasts and hip region after starting birth control pills. However, not all women put on weight with birth control pills.
3. Headaches: Fluctuating hormone levels can trigger headaches and migraines. The concentration of hormones in the pills is directly linked to the intensity and frequency of headaches. In most cases, these headaches improve over time. If the headaches are very bad, you may need a different type of birth control pill and hence it is best to bring these headaches to your gynaecologist’s notice.
4. Mood swings: Hormones affect not only your menstrual cycle but also your moods. Studies have shown that birth control pills affect the cortical thickness of parts of the brain linked to the evaluation of incoming stimuli and reward response. This can lead to increased mood swings. For this reason, women suffering from depression must let their doctor know about their condition before starting birth control pills.
5. Reduced risk of cancer: Women who take birth control pills regularly are said to have a lower risk of suffering from certain types of cancers like ovarian and endometrial cancer.
6. Clearer skin: Birth control pills can clear your skin and help treat skin conditions like acne. This is primarily because the hormones in these pills reduce the production of testosterone which in turn lowers oil secretion. The lesser the oil produced, the fewer the pimples.