One of the most common questions that I get asked as an OB/GYN is, “What are the side effects of ___ birth control method?” Of course, all birth control methods have side effects, as well as pros and cons of their usage.
This article will focus solely on their common medical side effects, rather than pros and cons (which may be different for each person).
The first question that one should ask about a birth control method that they are considering is, “How will this change my bleeding pattern?” All birth control methods, with the exception of sterilization (tubal ligation and vasectomy) and condoms, will change the user’s bleeding pattern. Usually it is a favorable change - however, this can be variable. The second question one should ask is, “Are there any serious side effects?” These refer to complications that are rarely seen, but can be dangerous if they occur. The third question is, “Are there any other bothersome (though harmless) side effects?” Here are the varying birth control types and their
- Condoms
- The only potential side effect of condoms worth noting is contact allergic reaction to the latex that the condom is made of. Condoms do not change your bleeding pattern and there are no known serious side effects.
- Combination Birth Control Pills (Combination Pills and Progesterone Only Pills)
- Contraceptive patch
- Bleeding side effects, serious side effects, and bothersome side effects are all similar to the combination birth control pill – please refer to that section. The main difference is that since it is a patch that attaches to the skin for a week, there may be skin irritation as a bothersome side effect.
- Vaginal ring (Nuvaring, Annovera)
- Again, please refer to the combination birth control pill section, as the side effects are the same. However, because the vaginal ring is inserted into the vagina for about a month at a time, there may be some bothersome vaginitis or vaginal infection symptoms.
- Progesterone only birth control pill
- Medroxyprogesterone injection (Depo-Provera)
- Subdermal implant (Nexplanon)
- Levonorgestrel IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla)
- Copper IUD (Paragard)
- Sterilization (tubal ligation/vasectomy)
Hopefully this was a helpful summary of the common side effects of various birth control methods. For more information/questions about pros and cons of each type of birth control relevant to you, or if you’ve already made up your mind and your choice requires a prescription or procedure, please make an appointment with us or your personal OB/GYN to discuss further!
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