You want to stay informed about your health, right? When it comes to birth control, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons. Different contraceptive methods come with different health risks.
You’ve got choices like pills, injections, barrier methods, and more. But there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some methods might have minor side effects, while others could pose more serious risks. It’s not about scaring you, but it’s about keeping you aware.
To help you, this article will discuss a few potential side effects of popular birth control methods.
Oral Contraceptive Pills
Oral contraceptive pills are widely used by women seeking to prevent pregnancy. These pills contain hormones that prevent eggs from coming out and make it tough for sperm to meet the egg. While these pills are good at preventing pregnancy, there might be health risks to think about.
In the United States, around 25% of women between 15 and 44 years old use pills as their preferred method. However, a recent study published in the National Library of Medicine explored the potential side effects of these pills.
The most common issue with combined oral contraceptive pills is unexpected bleeding. Women might also experience sickness, headaches, abdominal pain, and many more. These pills caused hypertension in about 4-5% of healthy women and make it worse for 9-16% of women who already have it.
Another potential health risk could be an increased risk of blood clots. The hormones in the pills can affect the blood’s clotting factors, potentially leading to clot formation in veins and arteries. Although the risk is generally low, certain factors like smoking, obesity, and a history of blood clots can elevate the likelihood.
Intrauterine Device
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a common form of contraception involving a small device placed inside the uterus. It’s highly effective and convenient, making it a popular choice among women. While IUDs generally have fewer complications, you should explore possible side effects that might arise.
Getting an infection is one of the health concerns associated with IUDs. They can also sometimes cause discomfort or pain, especially during the initial days of placement. Some women might also experience irregular bleeding or spotting, which could be bothersome for them.
Certain types of IUD devices, such as the Paragard IUD, have been associated with serious health issues. According to TorHoerman Law, Paragard IUDs have been found to break or fracture during removal, leading to severe injuries. Many women who have been harmed by the Paragard IUD have had to undergo significant medical procedures.
A lot of women who experienced negative health effects chose to take legal action by filing a Paragard lawsuit. They decided to do this because of the problems they faced after using the Paragard IUD. Filing a lawsuit is their way of addressing the harm they believe was caused by using the Paragard IUD.
Depo-Provera Shot
The Depo-Provera shot is a widely used contraceptive method. In 2022, nearly 72 million people globally opted for injectables as a means of birth control.
One potential health risk of the Depo-Provera shot is its association with weight gain. While not everyone using this method experiences weight gain, some individuals might notice changes in their weight. You need to have an open conversation with a healthcare provider about the possible effects of this method.
In recent years, research has uncovered that the use of Depo-Provera is associated with an increased risk of HIV infection. You can consider talking to healthcare experts about the best contraceptive option for each individual.
Barrier Methods
Condoms are a common way to prevent pregnancy. They usually work and are simple to use. But they could have some health risks. One concern is that condoms can sometimes break or tear, which can lead to unintended pregnancies or STI transmission. You must use condoms correctly and ensure they are in good condition to minimize these risks.
Diaphragms are another kind of wall put inside the vagina to stop sperm from going into the uterus. They can be used again and again, and they don’t contain any hormones. However, there are things to think about. If you don’t put the diaphragm in the right way or if it’s not the right size, it might not work well in stopping pregnancy.
In Conclusion
With a wide array of contraceptive options available, the choice is yours to make. By seeking advice from your healthcare provider, you can select methods that safeguard your well-being and provide financial security.
The 2022 KFF Women’s Health Survey found that 31% of those using contraception are facing side effects from their current method. Plus, roughly 52% find these effects to be worse than expected. This emphasizes the need for open conversations with healthcare providers before choosing a contraceptive method.
By staying informed about potential risks, individuals can find a contraceptive approach that best suits their needs.
