Birth Control Pills: Benefits, Risks, and FAQs

Oral contraceptives

Hello Dr.
Huang,
I have been suffering from premenstrual syndrome and menstrual pain for a long time, often using Tylenol for relief.
I learned that the new generation of low-dose oral contraceptives can improve these symptoms, so I asked my gynecologist to prescribe them for me.
She mentioned that a side effect could be nausea, and prescribed me the "Family Planning No.
1" three-phase oral contraceptive.
Later, I read in the instructions that long-term use may cause pigmentation (Question 1: In which areas of the body does this pigmentation occur?), and there may be spotting (Question 2: If this occurs, should I seek medical attention immediately?).

I would like to ask if long-term use of progestins can cause water retention, edema, emotional instability, or depression? My menstrual cycle is usually regular, but sometimes it varies between 28, 32, and 36 days.
Question 3: Does the length or irregularity of the cycle affect health? Question 4: Will taking contraceptives like Xiao S cause breast enlargement? If I have no sexual experience, is an internal examination necessary?
Thank you for your answers.

Xiao Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/16

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Avoidance medications are a good option for treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) as long as there are no adverse effects as you described, and they can be used long-term.

Reply Date: 2004/12/16

More Info

Understanding birth control pills, particularly the newer low-dose oral contraceptives, involves a comprehensive look at their benefits, risks, and common questions. These medications are often prescribed not only for contraception but also for managing symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation).

Benefits of Birth Control Pills
1. Regulation of Menstrual Cycle: Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles, making periods more predictable. This can be particularly beneficial for women who experience irregular cycles, as you mentioned with your cycles varying from 28 to 36 days.

2. Reduction of Menstrual Symptoms: Many women find that oral contraceptives can significantly reduce menstrual cramps and other PMS symptoms, which may be the reason your doctor recommended them for your dysmenorrhea.

3. Improved Skin Health: Some formulations of birth control pills can help improve acne and reduce the severity of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

4. Lower Risk of Certain Cancers: Long-term use of birth control pills has been associated with a reduced risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Risks and Side Effects
1. Potential Side Effects: As with any medication, there are potential side effects. Common side effects of birth control pills include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood changes. The specific medication you mentioned, "家庭計畫1號," may have unique side effects, including the risk of pigmentation changes (hyperpigmentation), which typically occurs on sun-exposed areas of the skin.

- Question 1: Hyperpigmentation can occur on various parts of the body, including the face (melasma), arms, and other sun-exposed areas.
2. Spotting and Breakthrough Bleeding: Spotting or breakthrough bleeding can occur, especially during the first few months of starting the pill.
- Question 2: If you experience significant or persistent spotting, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. While light spotting can be normal, heavy bleeding or changes in your menstrual pattern should be evaluated.

3. Water Retention and Mood Changes: Some women may experience water retention, swelling, or mood swings while on hormonal contraceptives.
- Question 3: The length of your menstrual cycle can vary and is not necessarily an indicator of health unless accompanied by other symptoms. However, significant irregularities may warrant further investigation.

4. Breast Size Changes: While some women report changes in breast size when taking birth control pills, this is not universally experienced and can vary widely among individuals.
- Question 4: It is not necessary to have an internal examination if you are not sexually active, but discussing your health history and any concerns with your doctor is important.

Conclusion
In summary, birth control pills can offer significant benefits for managing menstrual symptoms and regulating cycles, but they also come with potential risks and side effects that should be monitored. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience and to have regular check-ups to ensure that the chosen method of contraception remains suitable for your health needs. If you have any concerns about the side effects or how the medication is affecting you, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for personalized advice and adjustments to your treatment plan.

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