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Birth Control Side Effects

Considering taking birth control, but don't know the side effects behind them? Check out the birth control side effects and how to manage them.

By Rachel BlanchardPublished 6 years ago 4 min read
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A lot of us love sex... I mean love sex. It's one of the more intimate activities to do with your partner. However, sex does come with a set a rules — especially on avoiding a pregnancy when you don't wish to have a kid just yet. That's why birth control was invented, to prevent getting pregnant when having sex.

And I know, it is an annoying aspect when it comes to sex, but it's essential if you don't want to be preggo. So, always make sure you've got a form of birth control with you (or in you) to have sex for the pleasure of it... not the baby making aspect of it.

However, when it come to birth control, acknowledge that there are side effects to most of them. Birth control is a strong method of preventing pregnancies — so, it's common for side effects to occur. A lot of the side effects are tough to deal with, but there are ways to manage them. Therefore, before taking any form of birth control, know what birth control side effects you might possibly come across.

Mood Swings

This is one of the more common birth control side effects. While on almost any birth control, such as the pill, the shot, etc. you can be a bit moody or be feeling under the weather. Since a lot of these birth controls mess with your hormones, it can also mess with your moods.

Also, depression can fall into this, too. It's possible to suffer with depression while taking a form of birth control. In that case, if you are having terrible mood swings, ask your doctor for help or any other recommendations for switching birth controls.

Headaches and Dizziness

While taking almost any form of birth control, headaches and even dizziness come into play. However, they sometimes only occur within the first few days or even weeks of taking birth control — then your body should get used to them and vanish. It's irritating at first, but it shouldn't be occurring for more than a month.

But if the headaches and dizziness don't go away after a month or two, ask your doctor for a different birth control since your body didn't like the last one. Aside from that, be patient! Everything should clear up in no time.

Tender Breasts

From birth control side effects, this is certainly a common one that the majority of women face — tender breasts. Yes, your boobs will hurt as though you're constantly on your period and I 100 percent agree on how much they ache and swell. Your boobs sometimes even hurt if you grab them just a little. You can also tell your partner to calm down when it comes to any boob-grabbing during sex — tender breasts are no fun.

Yet, just like the headaches, this should subside after a few days, as well. So you'll be having swollen, aching tits for a short while. In other words, patience is key!

Nausea and Cramps

Having nausea and cramps is normal when first taking any form of birth control. Sometimes the dizziness comes with nausea, then followed by cramps and an upset stomach. But don't be bummed out for too long, these side effects pass away over time, too. Your body just has to get used to it. Remember, you're stopping your body from producing babies — it's a big process. Side effects are certainly normal.

Ways to manage this is by drinking lots of fluids and never strain yourself too much — it'll lead to more dizziness and eventually nausea. And for an upset stomach and cramps, you can take any painkillers and a heating blanket works wonders, too. It's my go-to for cramps.

Breakthrough Bleeding

When it comes to birth control side effects, breakthrough bleedings can occur. Since birth control stops your uterus from producing eggs, this can lead you to have light periods or even stop you from having periods, overall. You can prevent this from happening by always taking your pill at the same time every day or switching to a different form of birth control.

So, if you see slight spotting, or any form of vaginal bleeding, talk to your doctor if you're concerned. Even though this is a normal side effect of birth control, it won't hurt to ask your doctor about it if you're worried about it.

Lacking a Sex Drive

Another one among birth control side effects, is that it's possible to almost never be in the mood — completely killing your sex drive. Since birth control can affect your "horniness," this shouldn't completely stop you from having sex — not to mention your partner will be fairly upset, along with yourself. Who knows, while in the midst of getting it on, your mood can suddenly change. It's all about the moment — the moment can surely change your mood!

Plus, you're taking birth control to have sex and not get pregnant. So, if you're not having sex while taking birth control... why are you taking birth control from the start? You better get it on, or you're defeating the purpose!

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About the Creator

Rachel Blanchard

Does hot yoga, has 3 Yorkies and a hamster, and listens to John Mayer religiously.

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