Combination contraceptives typically contain estrogen and progestin, formulated to prevent pregnancy. These contraceptives are available not only in the popular pill form (taken daily), but also as a patch or vaginal ring (used for three weeks at a time). All types of combination contraceptives have similar side effects; however, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that the ring and patch forms' side effects may be more common as they contain more concentrated doses of hormones.
Spotting
When a woman begins using a combination contraceptive, she may experience some light bleeding between periods, otherwise known as spotting. Spotting, according to Planned Parenthood, is one of the three most common side effects of combination contraceptives; however, it usually does not last beyond than the first three months of use. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that women in the firth few months of combination contraceptive use may also experience irregular periods, including lighter or heavier bleeding.
Nausea
Nausea is another of the three most frequently reported side effects of combination contraceptives, according to Planned Parenthood. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that women using combination oral contraceptives take their pill at bedtime or with meals every day, to decrease this side effect. Women on the patch or vaginal ring, however, do not have this option. Like spotting, nausea should subside after a few months.
Sore Breasts
The third most common side effect of combination contraceptives, according to Planned Parenthood, is breast tenderness. The National Institutes of Health state that breasts may also grow larger or fuller during the initial months of combined contraceptive use. Women may even experience some breast discharge.
Weight Gain or Loss
Some women who use combination contraceptives experience weight gain, while others may actually lose weight. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the degree of weight gain (or loss) may depend on the combination contraceptive's actual hormone balance. Lower doses of estrogen and newer progestins tend to cause less weight gain than more traditional combination contraceptives.
Headaches
Some women who use combination contraceptives may experience headaches due to the hormones in the medication. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that women with a history of migraines are more likely to experience this side effect than others. The National Institutes of Health warn that a sudden, severe headache could be a sign of a more serious complication of combination contraceptives, and should be investigated by a doctor immediately.
Blood Clots
A serious and potentially dangerous side effect of combination contraceptives is an increased risk of blood clots. Blood clots can cause a heart attack or stroke, or damage to the vessels that supply the lungs. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, both the patch and the vaginal ring pose a higher risk of blood clot development than the pill as they contain a higher concentration of hormones. The danger is even greater in women who smoke, which is why women who begin taking oral contraceptives are encouraged to give up the habit.
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