What side effects can the mini pill cause?
Just like the combined pill, the mini pill can cause side effects, particularly within the first few months of taking it. Your body needs to get used to the new medication you are taking and adjust to the new level of hormones. In most cases, the side effects become easier to manage or wear off on their own after a few months.
The side effects you may have, if any, vary from person to person. What one person may experience when they take the mini pill may not be the same as you.
The most commonly discussed side effects of the mini pill are:
How will the mini pill affect my skin?
Progesterone causes an increase in sebum production, an oily substance which helps protect the skin. However, large amounts of sebum can clog up pores and cause an outbreak of spots. Taking the mini pill can make acne worse if you already have it whereas the combined pill may help clear it up. But this varies from person to person.
How will the mini pill affect my periods?
A common side effect of the mini pill is the changes it can cause to your menstrual cycle, especially in the first few months of taking it. The mini pill can cause periods to become lighter, irregular or they may stop completely. Some women also notice spotting or breakthrough bleeding between periods. These side effects usually get better after you’ve been taking the mini pill for 3 months and your body has adjusted to the changes in hormone levels. If you’re worried about side effects or anything at all related to taking the mini pill, you should speak to your doctor.
How will the mini pill affect my sex drive?
All pills, including the mini pill, work by changing hormone levels to prevent pregnancy. These hormonal changes can impact your sex drive. Progesterone usually lowers your sex drive but there are cases where women experience an increase in the desire to have sex. If you feel that the mini pill is affecting your sex life in a negative way you should discuss this with your doctor.
How will the mini pill affect my fertility?
The purpose of the mini pill is to prevent pregnancy only while you’re taking it. It has no effect on your long-term fertility. How long you take the mini pill for does not affect your ability to get pregnant after you stop taking it. Your chance of getting pregnant is the same as someone who has never taken any form of contraception before.
What are other side effects of the mini pill?
Other possible side effects of the mini pill are:
- feeling sick (nausea) and/or being sick (vomiting)
If you’re worried about the side effects of the mini pill or they have been affecting you for longer than 3 months, you should talk to your doctor.