Side Effects of Pre-Contraceptive Pills: What to Expect - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?


Hello, doctor.
I am really concerned about this issue.
My girlfriend started taking the oral contraceptive pill "Aiyue" on the first day of her period.
She had no issues on the first and second days, but by the third day, she began experiencing side effects, including dizziness, which lasted until the seventh day when she finished the course (she took the first pill at 10:30 AM, and the subsequent doses were taken about 30 minutes to an hour later than scheduled).

The day after finishing the pills, we had sexual intercourse using the withdrawal method.
After that, she started experiencing several symptoms, such as breast tenderness, a feeling of heaviness in the uterus, and light spotting.
Initially, we thought it was her period, but it has been 7 to 8 days since then, and she continues to have light bleeding, which started as brown and later turned red, then back to brown.

By the tenth day, she began to feel a dull ache in her uterus and lower back pain (she has been taking the contraceptive pills on time for the past seven days).
We believe these symptoms are side effects.
The symptoms do not occur in the morning but start appearing around noon.
A few months ago, she used emergency contraception, which caused irregular periods, and that is why she started using the oral contraceptive pill.

Doctor, could you please advise if these are side effects of the oral contraceptive pill? Thank you for your guidance.

Peng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/25

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, your inquiry is answered as follows: During the use of the medication, if menstruation or bleeding occurs, there is no need to stop taking the medication; continue to take it as scheduled.
Once the body adapts to the contraceptive, abnormal bleeding will cease.
However, if irregular bleeding persists for more than three months or if there is heavy bleeding, it is advisable to consult a physician for further guidance.
Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2017/02/25

More Info


When it comes to understanding the side effects of pre-conception contraceptive pills, it's essential to recognize that these medications can indeed produce a range of side effects, especially during the initial months of use. The contraceptive pill you mentioned, "愛月錠" (which likely contains a combination of hormones), works by regulating your menstrual cycle and preventing ovulation. However, as your body adjusts to the hormones, you may experience various symptoms.

From your description, it seems that you began taking the pill on the first day of your menstrual cycle, which is a common practice and often recommended. The side effects you are experiencing, such as dizziness, breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and unusual bleeding, can be attributed to the hormonal changes induced by the contraceptive pill. It is not uncommon for women to experience these symptoms during the first few months of starting hormonal contraceptives as their bodies adapt to the new hormone levels.

1. Dizziness and Nausea: These symptoms can occur as your body adjusts to the hormones. If they persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

2. Breast Tenderness: This is a common side effect of hormonal contraceptives due to the increase in estrogen levels, which can cause breast tissue to swell and become more sensitive.

3. Abdominal Discomfort: The feeling of pressure or discomfort in the uterus can also be a side effect as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes.
4. Irregular Bleeding: Spotting or breakthrough bleeding is a frequent occurrence, especially in the first few months of taking the pill. The color of the blood can vary, and it may appear brownish or red. This is typically not a cause for concern unless it is excessive or accompanied by severe pain.

5. Timing of Symptoms: The fact that your symptoms seem to worsen later in the day could be related to various factors, including your daily activities, stress levels, or even dietary habits.
It's important to note that while these side effects can be bothersome, they often diminish after the initial adjustment period, which can last a few months. However, if you find that the symptoms are severe or do not improve, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider. They may suggest switching to a different formulation or exploring other contraceptive options that might be better suited to your body.

Additionally, since you mentioned having taken emergency contraception in the past, it’s worth noting that this can also lead to irregularities in your menstrual cycle. The hormonal fluctuations from emergency contraception can sometimes take a while to stabilize, which may compound the effects you are experiencing from the regular contraceptive pill.

In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing can be attributed to the side effects of the contraceptive pill, it is crucial to monitor them closely. If they persist or worsen, or if you have any concerns about your health, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and potential adjustments to your contraceptive method. Your health and comfort should always come first, and there are many options available to find the right fit for you.

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