All You Need To Know About Birth Control Methods And Their Side Effects

Mood Changes

Women are prone to mood swings while PMSing but when a woman is on birth control pills the chances of constant mood swings increase a lot. The woman can also suffer from depression. The emotions become highly dependent on the stress and pressure the woman is going through. 

Weight Gain

Weight gain is the most visible side effect of birth control pills on women. The hormones in the pills tend to increase the fluid retention around the woman’s hips and breasts thus making her look heavier.

Blood Clots

Some women can have blood clots (venous thrombosis). Women who smoke and are above the age of 35, women with high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity are at a higher risk for the same. 

Higher Risk Of Breast Cancer

It is still controversial; the relation between breast cancer and use of birth pills but the study conducted in 1996 by Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer showed that women who had been consuming birth pills in 1-4 years had higher risks of acquiring breast cancer. The risks are small but still existent. 

Cervical Cancer

The relation between oral contraceptive pills and cervical cancer is also controversial. There are studies going on which has tried to understand the impact of birth control pills on cervical cancer- the impact is small and till now have been found related to risky sexual behaviors. To be on a safe side, women should get an annual Pap test done. 

STD And Birth Control

Birth control pills do not ensure safety against any kinds of STDs. So both the men and women should get tested regularly for the same in case they are using oral contraceptives as a method of birth control.