Are There Side Effects to Taking the Birth Control Pill?

Learn about the common and serious side effects of birth control pills, how they affect your body, and what to consider before taking them. Find out the risks, effectiveness, and safe next steps from Alight.

Can Birth Control Pills Cause Side Effects?

Short answer—yes, there can be side effects to taking birth control. While the birth control pill is effective at preventing pregnancy, it works by altering a woman's natural hormone levels to prevent ovulation. These changes can affect her body in different ways. Before deciding to take birth control, it's important to discuss the potential side effects and risks with a medical professional.

Common Side Effects of the Birth Control Pill

Some women experience side effects, especially during the first few months of use. These may include:

• Breakthrough bleeding (bleeding in between periods)

• Increased blood pressure

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Breast tenderness

• Headaches

• Bloating

• Changes in mood, including new or worsening depression & anxiety

More Serious Potential Side Effects

Although rare, the birth control pill can cause more serious complications. These risks are higher for women who smoke, are over age 35, or have certain medical conditions.

Possible serious side effects include:

• Blood clotting

• Stroke

• Heart attack

• Liver disorders

Some studies suggest an increase in risk of breast & cervical cancer while using the pill and shortly after discontinuing use. 

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Can I get Pregnant on Birth Control?

While the birth control pill has a high effectiveness rate (about 93% effective with typical use), no birth control method is 100% effective. The surest way to avoid pregnancy is to remain abstinent (refrain from sexual activity). If you are in a loving relationship, your partner should respect your decision to wait.

If you think you might be pregnant, it is best to confirm your pregnancy with a medical-grade test and ultrasound. 

Make an Appointment

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Does Birth Control Protect Against STI/STDs?

Aside from the potential side effects, it’s important to note that birth control pills do NOT protect against sexually transmitted infections or diseases. One precaution to avoiding STI/STDs is to ensure you are in a mutually monogamous relationship (you and your partner are only having sex with each other). 

If you’d like to learn more about your options or discuss sexual health in a safe, confidential setting, Alight offers free and confidential consultations.

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Work Cited

Cancer Research UK. “‘Does the Contraceptive Pill Increase Risk of Cancer?’” Cancer Research UK, 27 Mar. 2023, www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/hormones-and-cancer/does-the-contraceptive-pill-increase-cancer-risk.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Contraception and Birth Control Methods. 6 Aug. 2024, www.cdc.gov/contraception/about/index.html

Kaiser Permanente. “‘Your Guide to Birth Control Side Effects.’” Kaiser Permanente Healthy, 25 July 2025, healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/washington/health-wellness/healtharticle.birth-control-side-effects.

Mayo Clinic Staff. “‘Combination Birth Control Pills.’” Mayo Clinic, 13 Jan. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/combination-birth-control-pills/about/pac-20385282.