Understanding the Risks of Birth Control Options
Birth control gives people the power to take control of their reproductive health, plan their families and manage medical conditions like acne or heavy periods. But like all medications, birth control comes with possible downsides. Whether you’re taking the pill, using an IUD or relying on another method, it’s important to be aware of the side effects and risks of birth control.
Common Side Effects of Birth Control
Many people experience mild side effects, like nausea and mood changes, when they start using birth control, especially hormonal methods like the pill, patch, ring, shot or hormonal IUD. These side effects often go away after a few weeks or months, but they can be annoying or uncomfortable.
1. Nausea
Some people feel slightly sick to their stomach when starting hormonal birth control, especially with the pill. This usually gets better over time. Taking the pill with food can help.
2. Breast Tenderness
Hormonal changes can make breasts feel sore or swollen. This side effect typically fades after a few weeks, but for some, it lingers longer.
3. Mood Changes
Some users report mood swings, anxiety or even depression when on hormonal birth control. While research is mixed, it’s something to watch out for—especially if you have a history of mental health conditions.
4. Weight Changes
There’s no solid evidence that most birth control causes major weight gain, but some users notice slight changes in appetite or water retention. The birth control shot (Depo-Provera) has been more closely linked to weight gain than other methods.
5. Spotting Between Periods
Light bleeding between periods is common when starting hormonal birth control, especially the pill, patch or ring. This usually goes away within a few cycles.
6. Changes in Menstrual Cycle
Some people notice lighter periods, less cramping or fewer periods altogether with hormonal methods. Others may experience more irregular bleeding, especially with the copper IUD (Paragard), which can cause heavier or more painful periods.
Serious Risks of Birth Control
While most side effects are mild and go away on their own, some side effects and risks of birth control can be more serious. These are less common, but it's important to know the signs and when to seek medical attention.
1. Blood Clots
Certain types of hormonal birth control—especially the combination pill, patch or ring—can increase the risk of blood clots. Blood clots can be dangerous and lead to conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), stroke or pulmonary embolism.
Watch for sudden leg pain or swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath or vision changes. The risk is higher for people who smoke, are over age 35 or have a history of clotting disorders.
2. High Blood Pressure
Hormonal birth control can raise blood pressure in some users. If you already have high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend a non-hormonal method instead.
Watch for headaches, dizziness or vision changes, and get your blood pressure checked regularly.
3. Liver Issues
Though rare, some hormonal birth control can affect liver function or lead to benign liver tumors. Severe abdominal pain or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) can be warning signs.
4. Increased Risk of Depression
Some people report mood changes or worsening depression while on hormonal birth control. While this doesn’t happen to everyone, you should talk to your doctor if you notice changes in your mental health.
5. IUD Complications
IUDs are generally safe, but they can occasionally cause complications such as:
- Uterine perforation (very rare). This occurs when the IUD pokes through the wall of the uterus during insertion.
- Expulsion. This occurs when the IUD slips out of place, which can make it less effective.
- Infection. This may happen shortly after insertion, though it is rare and treatable.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Some people have a higher risk of complications from birth control and may need to explore other options. You should talk to your healthcare provider about alternative methods if you:
- Smoke and are over age 35.
- Have a history of blood clots, stroke or heart disease.
- Have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Have migraines with aura.
- Are at high risk for breast or liver cancer.
What Should You Do if You Experience Side Effects?
If you're experiencing mild side effects, your body may just need time to adjust. However, if symptoms persist or become severe, it’s worth checking in with your doctor. Sometimes switching to a different method or brand can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Birth control is an important tool for managing your reproductive health, but like any medication, it’s not without its downsides. Being aware of the side effects and risks of birth control helps you stay informed and prepared. Most side effects are manageable, and serious complications are rare, but knowing what to watch for can help you protect your health.
Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting or changing birth control. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits, find a method that suits your lifestyle and ensure you're using it safely.
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