A Guide on Birth Control Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Switch
Birth control has transformed women’s lives. Offering control, freedom, and protection from unplanned pregnancy. But for some, it also comes with frustrating, confusing, or even distressing side effects.
Whether you’re considering starting contraception, managing unwanted symptoms, or wondering if it’s time to switch methods, this guide is for you.
Maud Medical Clinic Calgary’s Doctors, Physicians and staff help women navigate birth control options with compassion and clarity. Here’s what to expect when it comes to side effects and how to know when it’s time to make a change.
Understanding How Birth Control Works
Most hormonal birth control methods use synthetic versions of estrogen, progestin, or both. These hormones prevent pregnancy by:
Stopping ovulation (the release of an egg)
Thickening cervical mucus (making it harder for sperm to reach the egg)
Thinning the uterine lining (making implantation less likely)
Common types of hormonal contraception include:
The pill (combined or progestin-only)
IUDs (hormonal or copper)
The patch
The vaginal ring
The shot (Depo-Provera)
The implant (Nexplanon)
Each method delivers hormones differently and in varying doses, which is why side effects can differ widely from person to person.
Common Side Effects of Hormonal Birth Control
Most side effects are mild and resolve within a few months as your body adjusts. However, they can still be uncomfortable or disruptive. Common symptoms include:
1. Irregular Bleeding or Spotting
Especially common in the first 3–6 months
More frequent with the shot, implant, and progestin-only methods
Typically improves over time, but can be persistent
2. Nausea
Often linked to combined pills (estrogen and progestin)
Usually subsides after the first few cycles
Taking the pill with food or at night can help
3. Mood Swings and Changes
Some women experience increased irritability, anxiety, or depressive symptoms
Linked more often to high-progestin formulations
Important to track mood over time and discuss changes with your doctor
4. Breast Tenderness
Caused by fluid retention or hormone shifts
Common during the first 1–2 cycles
Wearing a supportive bra and reducing caffeine may help
5. Headaches
Estrogen fluctuations can trigger migraines or tension headaches
Switching to a lower-dose or progestin-only method may reduce symptoms
6. Fluctuating Libido
Some women report decreased desire; others experience an increase
Individual hormonal sensitivity plays a role
If your libido changes significantly, it’s worth discussing
7. Weight Changes
Most methods do not cause significant weight gain, according to major studies
The shot (Depo-Provera) is associated with more weight gain than other methods
Weight changes may also relate to water retention or lifestyle shifts
Less Common but Serious Side Effects
While rare, some side effects require immediate medical attention. These include:
Blood clots (especially in women who smoke and take estrogen-based methods)
Severe headaches with vision changes
Chest pain or shortness of breath
Signs of liver problems (jaundice, dark urine)
These risks are why a detailed health history is essential before starting or switching birth control. At Maud Medical Clinic Calgary, our physicians carefully review your medical background to help you choose the safest option.
What About Non-Hormonal Side Effects?
Some birth control methods are non-hormonal, like the copper IUD or barrier methods (condoms, diaphragm). These may cause:
Heavier or more painful periods (copper IUD)
Local irritation or discomfort (barrier methods)
No hormonal side effects like mood changes or nausea
Non-hormonal options can be ideal for women who are sensitive to hormones or prefer a medication-free method.
When Side Effects Become a Problem
Not all side effects require stopping or switching. But it’s time to check in with your doctor if:
Symptoms persist beyond three months
Mood changes interfere with daily life or relationships
Spotting is constant or heavy
Headaches become more frequent or intense
You feel your birth control is affecting your quality of life
Every woman’s body is different. What works well for your friend might not work for you, and that’s normal. The key is knowing you don’t have to suffer through side effects silently.
How to Talk to Your Doctor About Birth Control
Maud Medical, we encourage women to ask questions and explore their options. We protiritize prepper educations and clarity. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Prepare Ahead:
Track your symptoms: When did they start? How frequent or severe are they?
Note your cycle changes: Any changes in bleeding patterns or PMS symptoms?
Be open about your lifestyle: Sexual activity, goals, comfort with certain methods
During the Visit:
Ask about different hormone formulations (e.g., low estrogen, different progestins)
Discuss non-hormonal options if desired
Ask what to expect in terms of side effect timing
If you’ve tried multiple types without success, consider a full hormone panel or further evaluation
Your visit at Maud Medical Clinic Calgary is a judgment-free space. We aim to empower you to understand your body and make informed choices through proper education.
How Long Should You Try a New Method Before Switching?
Most providers recommend giving it 2–3 months unless the side effects are severe.
If side effects worsen or are intolerable right away, it’s okay to switch sooner.
If you’re happy with the method’s effectiveness but bothered by certain symptoms, your doctor may tweak the dosage or formulation.
Again, everyone is different so it may vary. At Maud Medical, we work with you to find the right balance between effectiveness and tolerability.
Alternatives to “The Pill”
Many women think the pill is their only option, but there are a range of choices, including:
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Kyleena, Mirena): Effective for 3–7 years
Copper IUD: Hormone-free and effective for 10 years
Nexplanon implant: Effective for 3 years
Short-Term Hormonal Options
The patch
The vaginal ring
The shot (Depo-Provera)
Non-Hormonal Options
Copper IUD
Condoms
Fertility awareness methods (may be less effective without perfect use)
If you’re not satisfied with your current method, there’s no need to settle. There’s always something else to try—and we’re here to guide you through it.
Your Care at Maud Medical Clinic Calgary
Our physicians provide expert support for:
Birth control consultations and prescriptions
IUD and Nexplanon insertions/removals
Hormonal evaluations and lab testing
Side effect management and switching guidance
Fertility planning and cycle tracking
All medical doctor services are covered by your valid provincial health card.
If it’s your first visit, please fill out our online request form or visit the clinic for more information.
Already a patient? Use your AVA patient portal to request an appointment.
Physician referrals accepted. We share visit notes with referring providers as needed.
Please note: We are not a general medical clinic. All services are by appointment only. Same-day appointments for emergency contraception may be available but are not guaranteed.
You deserve a birth control method that works with your body, not against it. Maud Medical clinic Doctors, Physicians and staff all believe in offering women clear, compassionate, and evidence-informed guidance for all stages of reproductive health.
If you’re unsure about your current method or curious about alternatives, we’re here to help you navigate your options—without pressure, stigma, or confusion.
The right method is the one that supports your health, your goals, and your peace of mind.
References
Canadian Paediatric Society. "Contraceptive care for Canadian youth." 2020.
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC). "Canadian Contraception Consensus." Updated 2023.
Mayo Clinic. “Birth Control Pill FAQ: Benefits, Risks and Choices.” 2022.
ACOG Practice Bulletin. “Hormonal Contraceptive Methods.” American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2019.
Planned Parenthood. “Birth Control Side Effects.” 2024.
