Possible Complications of Birth Control

Birth control tablets, patches, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help you avoid an unintended pregnancy. Although these treatments are generally safe and successful, there are some hazards to be aware of. While most people who use Boca Raton birth control tablets have no issues, oral contraception can have side effects and risks.

1.      Cancer

Endometrial, ovarian, and colorectal malignancies are all reduced by birth control tablets. However, they raise the risk of breast and cervical malignancies by a small amount. The longer you use the pill, the more likely you will get certain malignancies. Your cancer risk returns to normal within ten years after you stop taking the drug. Ask your doctor if another kind of birth control could be preferable for you if you are already at a greater danger of breast or cervical cancer due to family history or other circumstances.

2.      High Blood Pressure (HBP)

The pill and other estrogen-containing birth control methods can raise blood pressure, increasing your chance of a heart attack or stroke. Hormonal birth control techniques may not be safe for you if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, particularly if you also:

• Over the age of 35.
• Have other leading factors for heart disease, like high cholesterol or a family history of heart diseases.
• Smoke.

3.      Blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes

Progestin and estrogen are found in birth control pills, patches, and rings. These hormones help to prevent pregnancy by preventing the release of an egg from your body. Increased estrogen levels raise the risk of blood clots, which are solid blood clots that form inside a blood vessel. Swelling, soreness, or spasms in your legs are signs of a blood clot. If a blood clot breaks free, it has the potential to go to your lungs and obstruct blood flow. This can result in a potentially fatal complication known as a pulmonary embolism. Some of the signs are chest pains, shortness of breath, and coughing.

Additionally, increased estrogen levels have also been linked to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly in older women and those with unmanaged high blood pressure. Talk to your specialist about your specific risk.

4.      Ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are more common in women who use hormone-releasing IUDs. Cysts are usually painless. They can produce symptoms such as bloating and stomach aches. Within 2-3 months, they should vanish on their own.

5.      Migraine

Hormonal fluctuations can trigger migraine headaches. In some women, the pill or other hormone-based birth control can assist balance hormones and avoid migraines. Conversely, other women report that this method of birth control makes their headaches worse or more frequent. Women who experience migraines with aura and take the pill may be at a higher risk of blood clots and strokes known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Only progestin-based birth control does not appear to enhance these risks.

The birth control pill is a reliable and widely acknowledged as a safe method. However, it can have severe adverse effects in rare circumstances. Call MyDoc Women’s Health Specialists to book your spot to learn more about the available birth control options.