Are Birth Control Pill Side Effects Normal? Your Concerns

What are the side effects of birth control pills?

Hello Doctor,
I have been having sexual intercourse with my boyfriend almost every time we meet, and I do not want to use condoms.
Therefore, I am currently taking the oral contraceptive pill, Yejih, for the first time.
According to the instructions, I started taking the first pill on the first day of my period (December 17), and today is the 11th day of taking it.
However, my period has not stopped during these 11 days.
The flow has decreased after the 8th day, but I am still experiencing bleeding.
Is this normal? Should I stop taking the pill, or do I need to see a doctor? Thank you for your response.

Julia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/27

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the majority of women using contraceptive pills do not experience side effects.
However, a small number of women may encounter mild adjustment symptoms during the initial adaptation period, such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, and irregular bleeding (primarily due to low-dose products).
These symptoms typically improve after the adaptation period, which is considered normal.
If the symptoms persist for too long, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
I recommend that you continue taking the pills without interruption and ask your doctor to arrange for relevant examinations and assess whether any adjustments to your medication are necessary.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2015/12/27

More Info

When it comes to birth control pills, it is not uncommon for users to experience side effects, especially during the initial months of use. The situation you described, where you have been taking the pill for 11 days and are experiencing prolonged bleeding, is known as "breakthrough bleeding." This is a common occurrence for many women when they first start taking hormonal contraceptives.

Birth control pills work by altering the hormonal balance in your body to prevent ovulation and make the uterine lining less suitable for implantation. As your body adjusts to these hormonal changes, it can take some time for your menstrual cycle to stabilize. Breakthrough bleeding can happen for several reasons, including:
1. Hormonal Adjustment: Your body may need time to adapt to the new hormone levels introduced by the pill. This adjustment period can lead to irregular bleeding patterns.

2. Dosage: The specific formulation of the pill you are taking may not be the right fit for your body. Some women may require a different dosage or a different type of pill altogether.

3. Missed Pills: If you have missed any doses or taken the pill at inconsistent times, this can also lead to breakthrough bleeding.

4. Underlying Conditions: In some cases, underlying health issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or fibroids can contribute to abnormal bleeding patterns.

In your case, since you mentioned that the bleeding has decreased in volume after the first few days, it may simply be your body adjusting to the medication. However, if the bleeding continues for an extended period, becomes heavy, or is accompanied by severe pain, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation more thoroughly and determine if you need to continue with the current pill, switch to a different method of contraception, or investigate any other potential health issues.

It is also important to note that while some side effects are normal, others may warrant medical attention. If you experience symptoms such as severe headaches, vision changes, or leg swelling, you should seek medical help immediately, as these could indicate more serious complications.

In summary, while breakthrough bleeding can be a normal side effect of starting birth control pills, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms. If you have concerns about the bleeding or any other side effects, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. They can help ensure that you find a contraceptive method that works best for you and your body.

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