what are some of the benefits and side effects of birth control pills?

Question

besides preventing pregnancy what are some of the other benefits of birth control pills. i have heard that they have other benefits such as shorter periods, more pleasant periods, clearer skin and but also i have heard that birth control pills can make you gain weight or make breasts grow larger so has anyone that has been on birth control expierenced any of these side effects or any other ones?

Answer 1

I've been on the pill for years, and here is what I've experienced:

Benefits:
shorter/nonexistent period
clear skin
bigger boobs

Side Effects:
It killed my libido (especially the Nuvaring, which isn't a pill but has the same hormones)
Yeast infections
Breakthrough bleeding
Sore boobs

The benefits & side effects have differed slightly for the different pills: Low dose ones seem to cause shorter periods, as well as breakthrough bleeding for me, strangely. I've never experienced any weight gain that I've noticed but my breasts are slightly larger/firmer. Neither have I experienced moodiness. But everyone reacts differently to the hormones. I had one year when I was getting a yeast infection every month or every other month, it was torturous. Then I realized it was my pill and I switched, and it went away. Anyway, good luck making your decision!

Answer 2

It depends on the pill for the side effects. I had (and know several people that had) terrible side effects on Ortho Tricyclean Lo...such as weight gain, upset stomach, hair loss, dizziness, etc. I haven't had any side effects on Yaz. So that's a matter of discussion with your doctor and often trial and error. As for the benefits, it regulates the irregular. So, before had no idea when I was going to start (or how often a month), now I know the day. Also, some people take it because they have other conditions, so they use it to regulate hormones. Often PMS is lessened and periods are shorter. You should discuss the benefits and risks with your parents and doctor to determine if birth control is right for your situation.

Answer 3

I went on birth control when I was 18 to help regulate and shorten my periods. I had terrible pains and it eased the pain. The down fall was my moods. I became very moody...crying..depressed..all of the above. It may affect everyone differently. I did gain weight...alot of it too. Also, my breast grew from a b to a D. Depending what Bc i took I felt differently. I have tried a few in the past 3 years..I just recently stopped taking it. It was a hassle and remember to take a pill sucks. I tried the patch adn I dont recommend it. It gave me chest pains and every 3rd week I felt like I had morning sickness. Good luck and look into your options.

Answer 4

I was on ortho tricyclen lo, and it really did clear up my skin, regulated my periods, and made them much more manageable. They were way lighter and easier to take care of. I didn't get as many cramps. My birth control did not make me gain any weight, it made my breasts alittle bigger, but not really. When you first take the pill, you may get a little naseau, but not much. I didn't experience anything when I started. If you want to be on birth control, ask your doctor which one would be best for you. :)

Answer 5

Im on loestrin 24 and i only experienced the good side effects youve listed above. No gaining weight, or growing breasts has happened, but im sure its different for everyone.

Answer 6

Benefits- Regulates periods so they are on a schedual. Relieves Cramps.

Side Effects- Some people can experience nausea.

Answer 7

im gonna check yes to all....
benifits:
NO babies
shorter periods
clear skin
perdictable cycle
less moody during PMS
reliable
more healthy than other methods
Side Effects:
bad circulation
weight gain
larger breats
smoker ( irregular periods )

all in all a must ! good luck