The birth control pill is one of the most important inventions in women's health of the 20th century. In 1957 it was initially approved by the FDA as medication for "severe menstrual disorders"*. It wasn't until 1960 that it was officially introduced in the United States as a birth control method. Today, the birth control pill or simply "the pill" remains one of the more popular and affordable methods of preventing pregnancy. Millions of women all over the world have tried it. Millions more are bound to give it a shot. While there is no doubt that it is effective, some people tend to forget that like any other drug, it comes with its own set of side-effects.
Here are some side-effects that you should be aware of before you take that next pill:
Mood Swings and Possibly Mild Depression Symptoms
The hormones in birth control pills can cause women to be more emotional. Most women get mood swings and even start showing signs of depression when they take birth control pills.
Blood Clotting
Birth control pills contain hormones that can increase the risk of blood clots.
Decrease in Breast Milk Production
Since birth control pills are taken to prevent pregnancy, that also means that breast milk production can be affected. Breast milk production can decrease to about 5% when a woman takes the pill regularly. This will be a problem for those who plan to become mothers later on.
Bad for Good Bacteria
Not all bacteria are harmful to the body. Some of them are needed to aid digestion. Unfortunately, birth control pills tend to kill the good bacteria in the stomach. This can mean trouble for the immune system.
Vaginal Bleeding
Vaginal bleeding or spotting even when it's not that time of the month is one very common and dangerous side-effect of birth control pills. Although it is normal for the first few months of use, heavy bleeding between periods can put a woman at risk of various infections and complications.
Side-effects may be different for each woman but it is probably best if you educate yourself about all kinds of birth control methods before you subscribe to any.
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Source: TNP , Socialtrendsph