Are there any ways to combat mental side effects of the birth control pill?

Question

Hi there,

About a month and one week ago, my girlfriend began to take the birth control pill.

However, two seemingly glaring side effects are keeping us from enjoying the benefits of the choice to use birth control.

Firstly, her sex drive has been stifled fairly strongly. Secondly, and more importantly, she feels as though she is not herself. Feeling almost as if sometimes the pill is "controlling" her.

I truly hate to see her like this and have suggested that if the side effects continue that she should stop using the pill entirely; however, I had two questions.

Firstly, would a lower or "ultra-low" dose pill aid in reducing these symptoms. We are still planning to use condoms every time; however, we like the idea of a "safety net" in case of a condom break.

Secondly, could the pill possibly be taken every OTHER day to circumvent some of the harsher side effects? I understand that would reduce its effectiveness, but would it reduce side effects and still make a "safety net?"

Answer 1

She needs to go back to see her Dr. There are other types of birth control pills she can be put on. Talk this over with your girlfriend and have her talk to her Dr. Be open and KIND. She will respect you for it.

You both should check out this web site too.
aphroditewomenshealth.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&...

Dr. Dawn

Answer 2

Some of the side effects produced by birth control pills include the following: Weight gain or water retention It is obvious that the body not only may submit to the intended effects of the artificial hormones but may also undergo further changes. In this case, the body does not release or excrete excess water in the body and this is what causes one to apparently gain weight. Menstruation problems Another side effect of consuming the pill is that the menses may not be able to adjust. Based on a woman’s body chemistry this could be understood more deeply. However, on the surface one may assert that it is because of the direct action of hormones on the uterus and surrounding parts that causes a change in the menstrual cycle. Though most women manage to adjust to the changes that occur, it is possible that some may experience problems. Blood clotting Blood clots have also been known to occur especially in women who smoke. Clotting is not common in women who do not smoke and are under the age of 35. Other side effects of birth control pills include: Darkened spots of the skin Nausea Headaches Dizziness These are caused by the alteration of hormone level in the blood, also accompanied by mood changes. This is because of the fact that one’s hormone level directly influence the way that one feels. In view of all the side effects that are known to take place with use of birth control pills, it can be asserted that during the course of the first three months or so they diminish. This is because the body gradually learns to conform to the new hormonal levels. When one experiences side effects it is advised to consult a doctor. In some cases, the doctor will prescribe another brand of birth control pills. Aside from the side effects that cause women severe trouble in some cases, there are also reactions to the pills that make one’s body functions a little easier.

Answer 3

The pill can cause some crazy side effects for the first 1-3 months so she should wait a couple months to see if her side effects go away. There are dozens of different pills with different hormones and hormone levels, and sometimes it takes a while to find one that works best for an individual patient. What works great for me might be not so great for her. Low dose pills have less side effects, but are also less effective at preventing pregnancy. If you also use condoms, this should not be an issue.

And no matter what, do not take them every other day! I can't even imagine how much worse she will feel if her hormone levels are constantly fluctuating from one day to another.

Answer 4

No No No No NO on taking the Pill every other day!!! You think her emotions are bad NOW, OMG that would throw her hormones into TOTAL dissaray!!!

It is a common side effect for the Pill to lower a girl's sex drive, but the other thing she mentions is not common. Usually girls feel much more stable on the Pill, as it gets rid of most PMS symptoms and evens out emotions.

It's possible she's on a Pill that's just not right for her. Not necessarily a weaker one, but one with a different hormone combination that will mesh better with her own hormones. Have her contact her doctor to switch to another brand/type with the start of her next cycle. There are TONS of different pills and they effect women differently. Good luck and I admire a guy for being man enough to ask for help with this! :)

Answer 5

I had the same problem sometimes it takes trying a few diffrent pills to find the one for you she may need a diffrent pill or a lower dose pill.I went through about 4 before I found one that wouldnt make me sick and moody Iam on a pill that has estrogen than other bc pills.She should go back to her gyno and let them know shes having problems,they should then swiitch her and she will have som come back in a month or so to see if shes doing ok or if the need to try another pill and so on.