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Question:
Hi. My name is jaimie, i am 17, and i have been taking birth control for not even a whole month yet. i just wanted to know what the side effects of ortho. are...

Answer:
by Larry Siegel:
(06/24/2004)
Hi and thanks for taking the time to write in. I'm very sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you... When it comes to side effects and birth control pills, it really depends on the woman's body. Most women really don't experience much in the way of side effects. Those that do often can get rid of them by either getting a prescription for another brand of the same pill of by letting their bodies adjust to them. The most common side effects reported are nausea, moodiness, and weight gain. Some women also report getting headaches or migraines. If you experience those, I would strongly suggest speaking with your doctor or healthcare provider. Migraines and severe headaches can actually be a signal of more serious reactions. Please remember too that smoking while on the pill can raise the liklihood of side effects as well. AS long as your doctor or provider screened you appropriately before prescribing, there shouldn't be too many problems for you. Good luck and remember, the Pill will offer no protection against STI's so you should still think about protection when engaging in intercourse. Please feel free to write in again if you have any other questions. I promise to answer in a far more timely manner. Take care and be well. peace.

Larry Siegel

Reviewed by Sexual Health Editorial Team

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