Birth Control Methods: Birth Control Pills / Question
Published: April 2, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have been taking birth control for 3 days and in those three days I have been getting sick such as bad stomach aches and throwing up. Can u tell me what's going on?
Signed: Sick On Birth Control
Dear Sick On Birth Control,
FX is assuming that when you say birth control you are referring to birth control pills (also called oral contraceptives). It is important that you discuss any adverse reactions with your doctor. While some women experience symptoms of discomfort, stomach pain, and nausea during the adjustment period as they begin taking birth control pills, you should report these symptoms to your physician to make sure that you are not having an unexpected reaction. Some very serious (but rare) side effects that women have experienced while taking birth control pills are chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headaches, or vision disturbances. If you ever experience any symptoms such as these, immediate medical attention will be necessary.
By seeing your doctor, he/she can determine that either the symptoms are not normal or are normal. As said earlier, your body may just be getting used to the medication and the symptoms do not often last very long. Once your body adjusts to the new level of hormones, you will notice a reduction in symptoms. To reduce nausea, it may help you to eat a small snack with your pill so you do not take it on an empty stomach.
Birth control pills have some wonderful side effects, besides their primary purpose of preventing pregnancy. Some of these positives include a reduction in cramping with your periods and shorter number of days of bleeding. It may also improve the regularity of periods, reduce symptoms of PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome), and help prevent diseases of the breast and fallopian tubes, and cancer of the ovaries and the lining of the uterus. It is also important to note that while oral contraceptives are very effective in preventing pregnancy, they do not protect against STDs or HIV and you should use a barrier method such as a latex condom or dental dam in conjunction with taking your pill daily.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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