Last Updated on March 27, 2025 by Nala Thorpe
Birth control is a useful tool for women all around the world, but it isn’t without its side effects. Many experience minimal versions of these side effects, but some women experience significantly negative effects, which impact them mentally and physically. Considering how long Mirena crash symptoms typically last, for example, its crucial to recognize the signs that your birth control is reacting poorly with your body. Always listen to your body first and learn what to do if you believe something is amiss.
Recognizing Potential Side Effects of Birth Control
The first step towards understanding whether your birth control is affecting your body negatively is recognizing what the potential side effects are. Below are the three categories of side effects that you may experience, depending upon the type of birth control you have:
- Common hormonal side effects: Mood swings, depression, weight changes, headaches, and nausea.
- Physical symptoms to watch for: Blood clot risks, irregular bleeding, severe cramps, and persistent pain.
- Long-term concerns: Fertility effects, hormonal imbalances, and post-removal symptoms like the Mirena crash.
Remember that symptoms can vary from person to person. Just because you may have heard of one woman experiencing some symptoms doesn’t mean that those will be the same that you experience, if at all. The most important thing is to just watch for any changes that suddenly appear which otherwise weren’t there before.
How to Keep Track of Your Symptoms
If you do notice that there are side effects to your birth control, you will need to track those symptoms to monitor for any potential changes. Start by journaling and writing down physical or emotional changes you experience that could be indicative of a larger pattern. Tracking apps and tools also exist, such as the health app, which allows you to log your mood, cycle irregularities, and a slew of other symptoms.
Be aware of the fact that birth control can cause some standard side effects, though, and that they aren’t all cause for alarm. The common side effects of birth control you could experience include:
- Spotting
- Nauseua
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches and migraines
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Missed periods
- Decreased libido
- Discharge
- Eye changes
It is recommended that if your side effects are severe enough that they impact your daily life or if you have experienced them consistently for 3 months or more that you then see a medical professional.
This is just guidance though. If you are ever concerned about what your body is going through, then reach out to your medical care professional as soon as possible.
Talking to Your Doctor About Your Concerns
Putting how your body is feeling into words can be extremely difficult, but it’s crucial when speaking to your doctor about what you’re experiencing. Try to use specific examples and timelines associated with the symptoms so that your doctor can better understand what you are going through. Some helpful questions you can ask your doctor include:
- Are my symptoms normal for this type of birth control?
- Could another birth control option work better for me?
- What tests can be done to rule out other health issues?
- Are my symptoms going to get more severe?
- How can I manage the symptoms I’m experiencing already?
If your doctor ever seems to dismiss your concerns out of hand then don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion or to visit a specialist. Should you ever feel uncomfortable about going to your doctor for whatever reason, seek guidance in the form of a trusted friend or family member who may be able to relate and guide you on what you should do and who you should contact.
Considering Alternative Birth Control Options
In some cases, switching to a different form of birth control can help alleviate symptoms. There are both hormonal and non-hormonal forms of birth control, and each type can cause different symptoms. Hormonal methods such as the classic birth control pill, patches, or hormonal IUDs will cause different symptoms from non-hormonal options such as copper IUDs, barrier methods, or general fertility awareness, so speak with your doctor if you think switching could help.
Taking Legal Action If You’ve Suffered Serious Harm
Nobodoy wants to suffer serious harm while taking their birth control but the fact of the matter is that you may not have been forewarned based on your health that someone would happen. There are cases of severe medical complications and, when side effects go beyond normal discomfort, it’s possible that you have a legal case on your hands. A company could potentially be held responsible under a product liability claim if they weren’t clear about the types of side effects that could occur and who is at risk.
By working with an accredited personal injury lawyer, you can fight for your rights in court so that you are better protected. Don’t settle for being injured by your birth control when you can rectify the matter and set a precedent for other women around the world.
Avoid Living with Pain from your Birth Control
By taking the time to learn how to recognize, track, and address birth control issues and side effects, you can take large steps towards improving your quality of life. Birth control is a powerful tool, but it may not mix with your body in the right way, which is something to remember. Always seek out help from a medical professional if you believe something is amiss with your birth control, and lean on your personal support structure of friends and family for assistance. The side effect symptoms from birth control can vary from person-to-person, so don’t forget to track any and every difference in how you are feeling so that a doctor can properly diagnose and assist you with the issue.
Legal help is always available if you believe the side effects you are experiencing weren’t properly advertised. Speak with a personal injury lawyer who can assist you with a product liability lawsuit if you believe this course of action is best for your specific case.
