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pills available the long term effects have not been well documented But recent evidence has shown that pill takers in the past run a higher risk of breast cancer especially if they ffirstcommenced taking the pill in their late teens. Again it is thought that pill takers who commenced taking it in their late teens also have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. One could argue also that these woman are more likely to have more sexual partners then say woman who wait to take the pill till they are in their 20's. It has been shown that the more sexual partners a woman has the greater her risk of developing cervical cancer - this how ever can be reduced by using condoms.

*The niggles and so called minor effects*
Lost of libido - great isn't it you take something that should make the whole idea of having sex alot less worrying and you go off the whole idea of it! This should settle down after a couple of courses but if it doesn't then go back to your GP and ask for another brand of pill as it might be the fact the brand you wweretaking doesn't agree with you.

Nausea - some woman find that they do feel slightly nauseous when using the pill. This normally does settle down after about 3 months but if it's unbearable or carries on then please go see your GP or FP clinic as again a change of brand might just help you.

Weight gain - this unfortunately is a very common side effect of taking the pill most woman will gain a few pounds. If the weight gain is excessive then a change of pill might help.

Spotting - some woman do suffer from slight break throw bleeding that should settle down once the body is used to taking the pill

Mood swings - Unfortunately the pill can cause mood swings. if they are severe then please talk this over with your GP or FP clinic.

Increase in vaginal infections - unfortunately due to the effect both types of pill have on vaginal secretions and mucosa which helps to cleanse the vagina you are more at risk of developing such lovely infections as thrush!

Not all woman suffer from side effects some take to the pill like a duck does to water and luckily never have any effects. I personally have never had any side effects from taking both methods of contraceptive pill.

*The fine tuning*
In this section I want to look at the what ifs of pill taking.

Missing a pill - should you miss taking your pill and be out of the 12 or 3 hour effectiveness window you do need to use another form of barrier contraception be this a condom or a recently fitted cap for at least 7 days.

Talking to God on the white telephone - if whilst taking the pill you suffer with a bout of vomiting again you need to look at using a barrier method as your body may well not have absorbed the pill. This is also the case if you suffer from diarrhoea. care should be taken when using some types of anti biotics as this too effects the bodies ability to absorb the pill.

Going on holiday - knowing that luggage can get lost I would pack your pill in your hand luggage. Remember you might be in a time zone ahead or behind the one here in the UK but your pill is still on GMT!

Sexually transmitted diseases - the pill WILL not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases if in doubt wrap it!

As with any medication the pill has many pro's and con's and only you can decide with the help of your GP and FP clinic if it is the method of choice for you. Having taken the pill for many years I have found it to be a reliable and effective method for me but obviously it is not suitable for all.

Dedicated to Margaret Sangar 1883-1966, who had the vision and fore sight to finally emancipate woman sexually.

Learn more about this author, English Nurse.
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