Seasonique is an extended cycle birth control pill which is ideal for women who want to experience only four menstrual periods a year. This is considered to be absolutely healthy, as there is no medical evidence which proves that there is a medical need for monthly bleeding while on the birth control pill. It is important to be aware of Seasonique birth control pill side effects before choosing this method of contraception, however.
Seasonique Birth Control Pill and Spotting
Spotting is a side effect which commonly affects women when they begin using this birth control pill. After being on it for several months, spotting usually reduces and eventually becomes nonexistent. In the beginning, spotting can be very light or it may be as heavy as regular menstrual bleeding. This is one of the most common Seasonique birth control pill side effects.
Other Common Side Effects of Seasonique
In addition to spotting during the first few months of use, there are other potential side effects associated with using Seasonique. These side effects are the same ones which women on almost any birth control pill may experience. It is important to keep in mind that these Seasonique birth control pill side effects are not all that common.
- nausea and vomiting, which generally stops after the first three months of being on Seasonique
- breast tenderness occurs due to the hormonal changes that women experience when going on a new birth control pill formulation. Once the body adjusts to the hormones in Seasonique, breast tenderness will usually subside.
- One of the less common side effects that women may experience is difficulty wearing contact lenses.
Serious Seasonique Birth Control Pill Side Effects
While most side effects that women experience on Seasonique are mild and may subside after a few months of use, there are a few potential serious side effects. It is important to keep in mind that these serious side effects are the same ones that women on many birth control pills experience.
The Seasonique birth control pill can cause blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. Women who smoke, especially at 35 years of age or older, are at the highest risk of experiencing any of these serious side effects. Thus, it is extremely important to quit smoking while on the pill.
Before going on this birth control pill, it is ideal to talk to the doctor about possible side effects of Seasonique. While going on Seasonique may be a good option for some women, it may not necessarily be the most suitable option for others. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of Seasonique before using this method of contraception.
Source:
Seasonique, “FAQs” (accessed April 30, 2010).
Jody Morse - Jody Morse is a freelance writer from the Poconos. She earned her B.A. in English from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania in ...
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