My opening advice is to encourage you to use a reliable family planning method at all times, if you are sexually active and are not planning to start a family.
Of all reversible methods of contraception, the hormonal methods are the most effective; and the birth control pill is one such method. The birth control pills are far more reliable than the normal use of condom.
As with all medications, birth control pills have their fair share of side effects. The majority of the listed side effects are infrequent. Most of the more common side effects are usually short-lived, and these include:
- headaches
- nausea
- bloating
- water retention and
- appetite changes
The serious side effects are:
- increased risk of blood clots in the veins
- increased blood vessel wall tone that leads to blood pressure problems
- increased risk of breast cancer and
- alterations in the blood lipids profile
The incidence of serious side effects is related to the user’s family history, age of use and the duration of use.
Young women are very suited to use the birth control pills. However, it is essential that you see your doctor or gynecologist to detect any contra-indication to its use.
Women with liver disease, blood clotting disorder and positive family history of hormone related cancers may have to use other method of contraception.
It is a good practice for pill user to see your doctor or gynecologist on a yearly basis, because change in her health status necessitates a re-look at her suitability to continue with the pill. Regarding the duration of pill use, your doctor, who can recognize undesirable health trends pertaining to the pill, is best position to advise.
Birth control pill is the first-line reversible contraceptive for young women. Its safety profile has continue to improve since the 1960s; and its continual use by millions of women around the world, attests its pre-eminent role in family planning.
Appropriate use of birth control pills is not “bad for our bodies”. Using it with understanding will reduce method failure, and regular surveillance by your doctor for long-term users will minimize untoward effects. Birth control pills are not over the counter drugs and they are not to be taken without proper guidance.
Regards
Dr James W S Lee
