Side EffectsBirth Control Side Effects and Risks

It’s important to consider the benefits and the side effects and risks you might have in choosing a form of birth control.

Birth Control and Spotting: What to Know

Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect of hormonal contraceptive use.

Birth Control and Breast Size

When you start using hormonal birth control, your breasts might feel swollen or look bigger. This is usually temporary.

How Hormonal Birth Control Can Affect Your Mood

Could hormonal contraceptives trigger emotional swings? Or might they do the reverse and actually improve your moods?

What to Know About Birth Control and Anxiety

Research shows that there could be a link between anxiety and birth control -- it just might not be because of hormones.

What to Know About Birth Control and Depression

Researchers don’t have enough evidence to say hormonal birth control causes depression. Most info suggests the answer is no.

ComplicationsWhat Are the Possible Complications?

Birth control such as the Pill and IUD are generally safe and effective, yet they do have risks you should know about.

Birth Control and Cancer Risk: What You Should Know

If you use birth control, you might be wondering whether it affects your risk of getting cancer.

Birth Control and High Blood Pressure: What to Know

If you have high blood pressure or are worried about getting it, you may wonder if hormonal birth control should be avoided.

Birth Control When You Have Medical Conditions: What's Safe?

If you have certain medical conditions, your doctor might recommend that you avoid one or more types of birth control.