What are the side effects of contraceptive pills?

Mar 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, common contraceptive pills include Levonorgestrel tablets, Mifepristone tablets, Ethinylestradiol and Cyproterone acetate tablets. Side effects of contraceptive pills may include menstrual disorders, breast tenderness, increased vaginal discharge, nausea and vomiting, headache, etc. To reduce the risk of these side effects, it is recommended to read the instruction leaflet carefully and consult a doctor's advice before use.

Generally, common contraceptive pills include Levonorgestrel tablets, Mifepristone tablets, Ethinylestradiol and Cyproterone acetate tablets, etc. Possible side effects of contraceptive pills may include menstrual disorders, breast tenderness, increased vaginal discharge, nausea and vomiting, headache, etc. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Menstrual Disorders

Contraceptive pills may affect the endocrine function of the ovaries, thereby influencing the menstrual cycle. Possible symptoms include spotting, early menstruation, changes in menstrual flow, and amenorrhea. These symptoms are usually related to the interference of the hormonal components in the contraceptive pills with the normal menstrual cycle.

2. Breast Tenderness

Breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal changes. The estrogen and progestin in contraceptive pills may cause breast tissue proliferation, leading to breast tenderness or pain. This side effect is often more noticeable during the first few months of taking the pills. As the body gradually adapts to the medication, symptoms may improve.

3. Increased Vaginal Discharge

Contraceptive pills contain high levels of estrogen, which may affect the cervical mucosal secretory cells, causing excessive secretion and resulting in increased vaginal discharge. This symptom generally does not pose a serious threat to health. However, if the discharge shows abnormal color, odor, or is accompanied by itching, prompt medical consultation and examination are recommended.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

The hormones in contraceptive pills may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, affecting normal gastrointestinal motility and secretion of digestive fluids. When the gastrointestinal tract is irritated, a series of nerve reflexes are triggered, causing contraction of the stomach muscles and resulting in symptoms of nausea and vomiting. These discomforts may be more pronounced when taking contraceptive pills on an empty stomach.

5. Headache

Contraceptive pills may affect the dilation and constriction functions of cerebral blood vessels, leading to abnormal expansion or contraction. These vascular changes may stimulate pain-sensitive structures within the skull, causing headaches. The severity and frequency of headaches vary among individuals. Some women may experience periodic headaches during the use of contraceptive pills, which may worsen with prolonged use.

Contraceptive pills may cause various side effects during use. To reduce the risk of these side effects, it is recommended to carefully read the instructions and consult a doctor before use.

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Which contraceptive pill is best?

Generally speaking, there is no absolute answer to the question of "which contraceptive pill is better." Contraceptive pills should be selected according to individual health conditions and needs. Common options include drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets, compound ethinyl estradiol ether tablets, levonorgestrel tablets, medroxyprogesterone tablets, and etonogestrel implants. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets are a type of combined short-acting oral contraceptive containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol.

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What are the side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?

In general, emergency contraceptive pills are used as a post-coital contraceptive measure. Possible side effects after taking them include menstrual disorders, gastrointestinal discomfort, breast tenderness, dizziness, headaches, and irregular vaginal bleeding. Emergency contraceptive pills should not be used frequently. It is recommended to use them no more than three times a year and no more than once per month. Regular contraceptive methods should be prioritized for daily use.

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What are the potential risks of taking emergency contraceptive pills frequently?

In general, taking emergency contraceptive pills in excess may lead to potential risks including menstrual disorders, reduced contraceptive effectiveness, hormonal imbalances, increased risk of gynecological diseases, and physical discomfort. It is recommended to avoid using emergency contraceptive pills as a regular contraceptive method. Instead, safer and more effective options such as condoms or short-acting oral contraceptives can be considered.

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What are the side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?

In general, emergency contraceptive pills are used as a post-coital contraceptive measure, and their side effects mainly include menstrual disorders, gastrointestinal discomfort, breast tenderness, dizziness, fatigue, and irregular vaginal bleeding. When using emergency contraceptive pills, it is important to note that they are only suitable for occasional emergency use and should not be used frequently as a regular contraceptive method. It is recommended that the number of uses per year should not exceed three.