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Birth Control Pills and Digestive Side Effects

By Deborah Ross HERWriter July 9, 2012 - 2:08pm
 
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digestive side effects of birth control pills
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The birth control pill has come a long way since its inception. Its convenience and effectiveness continue to improve.

It's even been linked to lower rates of ovarian and endometrial cancer and pelvic inflammatory disease.

When considering oral contraceptives, though, you will want to work closely with your gynecologist on working your way through the maze of available formulas.

Among the many brands out there, you have your choice of low-dose pills, extended-cycle pills, combination pills containing both estrogen and progestin in varying levels, and progestin-only pills.

At the same time, you also want to look closely at the fine print that comes with your prescription. Using oral contraception can mean occasional side effects, including breast tenderness, weight gain and light spotting between periods.

The WomensHealth.gov website, an arm of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, addressed the pros and cons of the pill in its "Birth control methods fact sheet."

In a section called "Everyone I know is on the pill. Is it safe?" the website said, "Today's pills have lower doses of hormones than ever before. This has greatly lowered the risk of side effects."

It added that the pros of taking the pill often include lighter periods and greater regularity, along with fewer menstrual cramps. On the other hand, some women need to watch out for serious complications such as high blood pressure, blood clots and heart disease.

Sometimes women complain of stomachaches with use of the pill. Indeed, there are possible side effects involving your digestive system.

Here are a few things you should know:

-- Nausea can occur with use of the pill. Thus, you might need a bit of trial and error to find the nausea relief that works for you. Peppermint tea, ginger ale, a few crackers, a cool compress on your forehead? These are just a few traditional nausea remedies.

WebMD suggested that with a side effect such as nausea you might want to talk with your gynecologist before going off the pill. The nausea might go away within a few months' time.

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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Puristat Digestive Wellness Center

Perhaps the most well-known use of Ginger Root is its ability to relieve nausea associated both with an upset stomach and motion sickness. "In fact, in one study, ginger was shown to be far superior to Dramamine, a commonly used over-the-counter and prescription drug for motion sickness" (the world's healthiest foods p. 2).

Read More Here >>>
http://www.puristat.com/ingredients/gingerroot.aspx

July 10, 2012 - 1:23pm
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