Headaches After Starting Birth Control Pills: What to Do? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When starting birth control pills, it is not uncommon for some women to experience side effects, including headaches. In your case, the onset of a persistent headache accompanied by dizziness, a feeling of pressure in the head, and nausea after starting the pill can be concerning. Here’s a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing your symptoms.


Understanding the Symptoms
Headaches can occur for various reasons when starting hormonal contraceptives. The hormones in birth control pills, particularly estrogen and progestin, can affect the blood vessels in the brain, leading to headaches. These headaches may be similar to migraines or tension-type headaches. The nausea and dizziness you are experiencing could be related to the headache itself or a response to the hormonal changes in your body.


What to Do Next
1. Assess the Severity: If the headache is severe or accompanied by other alarming symptoms such as visual disturbances, severe nausea, or neurological symptoms (like weakness or numbness), it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition, such as a migraine with aura or other complications.

2. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before making any decisions about stopping the medication, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms in the context of your overall health and medical history. They may recommend continuing the pills for a short period to see if your body adjusts to the hormones, as some side effects can diminish after a few cycles.

3. Consider Alternatives: If your headaches persist or worsen, your doctor may suggest switching to a different formulation of birth control pills that may have a lower dose of estrogen or a different progestin, which might be better tolerated.

4. Managing Symptoms: In the meantime, you can manage your headache symptoms with over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, unless contraindicated. Ensure you stay hydrated, rest, and avoid triggers that may exacerbate your headaches, such as stress, lack of sleep, or certain foods.

5. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a headache diary to track the frequency, duration, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any other symptoms. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.


When to Stop the Pills
If your healthcare provider advises you to stop taking the pills, it is generally safe to do so. However, if you are in the middle of a pack, they may recommend finishing the current pack before discontinuing to avoid potential irregular bleeding or hormonal fluctuations.

Conclusion
In summary, while headaches can be a common side effect of starting birth control pills, it is essential to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine whether to continue, adjust, or stop the medication based on your specific situation. Remember, it’s important to prioritize your health and well-being, and seeking professional guidance is always a wise choice.