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What side effects can occur with birth control pills?

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Blister pack of 28 oral contraceptive pills arranged in four rows, with 21 white active pills followed by 7 orange inactive pills. Arrows indicate the order for taking pills. — birth control A 28-day package of birth control pills.

Side effects of birth control pills vary depending on whether you are using a progestin-only pill (minipill) or a combination pill containing both estrogen and progestin. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine which option is safe for your specific health history, as certain conditions—such as a history of blood clots, heart disease, or smoking—can increase the risk of serious complications.123

Potential Side Effects

Common side effects associated with oral contraceptives include:
* Nausea and headaches132
* Breast tenderness or soreness32
* Irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting between periods132
* Changes in sexual desire (libido)13
* Acne (specifically noted with some minipill users)1
* Mood changes, including depression1

Serious Risks

While modern formulations have reduced the dosage of hormones to lower the incidence of adverse effects, more serious risks can occur, particularly in individuals over age 34. These include:2
* Blood clots12
* Increased blood pressure2
* Heart attacks1

Because some medications and herbal remedies can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills, always discuss your current prescriptions and supplements with a doctor or pharmacist.3