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IMPORTANT: Thorough counseling about bleeding changes and other side effects is an important part of providing the method. Counseling about bleeding changes may be the most important help a woman needs to keep using the method.
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| Describe the most common side effects |
- In the first few months, bleeding at unexpected times (irregular bleeding). Then lighter, shorter, and more regular monthly bleeding.
- Headaches, breast tenderness, weight change, and possibly other side effects.
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| Explain about these side effects |
- Side effects are not signs of illness.
- Most side effects usually become less or stop within the first few months of using COCs.
- Common, but some women do not have them.
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| Explain what to do in case of side effects |
- Keep taking COCs. Skipping pills risks pregnancy and can make some side effects worse.
- Take each pill at the same time every day to help reduce irregular bleeding and also help with remembering.
- Take pills with food or at bedtime to help avoid nausea.
- The client can come back for help if side effects bother her.
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