While there are many common side effects from taking hormone-based contraceptives like the birth control pill, most of them—including breast tenderness, nausea, spotting or irregular bleeding—tend to resolve themselves after a few months on the pill.
However, there are five established side effects of oral contraceptives that are much less common, but are serious enough as to warrant contacting one's physician immediately. If you can't reach your doctor, it is recommended that patients seek emergency medical help
They have been molded around the acronym ACHES so that they can be remembered more easily. They are:
Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
Chest pain
Headaches (severe)
Eye problems (blurred vision)
Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs
The reason these side effects are considered especially serious is because they could be symptomatic of a much more serious health crisis, including but not limited to:
Again, should you experience any of the ACHES side effects contact a health professional immediately.
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