Understanding Side Effects of the i-6 Birth Control Pill

Understanding the Birth Control Pill

Hormonal birth control pills are a safe and effective method to prevent pregnancy. However, like any medication, they can cause some side effects. One type of birth control pill, the i-6 pill, contains specific hormones that impact the body in unique ways.

What is the i-6 Pill?

The i-6 pill contains the hormones:

• Ethinyl estradiol - an estrogen
• Levonorgestrel - a progestin

It is part of a group of pills called monophasic combination oral contraceptives because the hormones are taken in consistent levels through the whole pill pack. The i-6 pill helps prevent pregnancy using these key mechanisms:

• Stops ovulation
• Thickens cervical mucus to block sperm
• Thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation

How to Take the i-6 Pill

The i-6 pill comes in a 28-day pack with the following specification:

• 21 hormone pills with 30 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol and 150 micrograms of levonorgestrel
• 7 non-hormonal placebo pills

To use properly:

1. Take 1 pill every day at the same time with or without food
2. When finished with the pack, start a new pack the next day without breaks between

6 Side Effects of the i-6 Birth Control Pill

While generally safe, the synthetic estrogen and progestin in the i-6 pill can cause side effects like:

1. Spotting Between Periods

Some women may experience light bleeding or spotting mid-cycle while taking the i-6 pill. This is generally temporary as your body adjusts to the hormones. If bleeding lasts over 90 days or turns heavy, see your doctor.

2. Breast Tenderness

Hormonal changes from the pill can lead to breast swelling and tenderness. Wearing well-fitted bras and limiting salt intake may provide relief.

3. Mood Changes

Some women report mood swings, irritability, or depressive symptoms on the i-6 pill. These emotional side effects often improve after 2 to 3 months. Talk to your doctor if mood issues persist.

4. Weight Gain

While the pill does not cause weight gain directly, fluid retention or increased appetite can be side effects. Eating healthy and exercising helps manage weight on the i-6 pill.

5. Nausea

Feeling queasy or nauseous can happen when beginning this contraceptive. Take the pill with food or before bed to minimize stomach upset.

6. Headache

Headaches are also common with initiation of the i-6 pill. These usually resolve within several cycles. Over-the-counter pain medications can provide relief.

Managing Side Effects of the i-6 Pill

Allow Time for Adjustment

Give your body at least 3 months to adapt to the hormones in your i-6 pills as that allows side effects to stabilize. Book a follow up with your doctor to check-in after this initial adjustment period.

Take at the Same Time

Consistently taking your pill at the exact same time each day helps keep hormones steady and minimizes breakthrough side effects.

Use Back-Up Contraception

If you miss taking a pill at the normal time and it has been more than 24 hours, use condoms or avoid sex until your next pill to prevent pregnancy.

See Your Doctor

Make an earlier appointment with your doctor if side effects concern you, get worse, or do not resolve within 90 days of starting the i-6 pill.

Potential Complications on the i-6 Pill

In rare cases, more severe side effects may occur while using the i-6 pill warranting prompt medical care:

Blood Clots

Though uncommon, the estrogen in birth control pills can increase clotting risk. Seek emergency care for symptoms like:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Calf swelling
• Vision changes
• Severe headache
• Numbness/weakness on one side

High Blood Pressure

The i-6 pill may elevate blood pressure in some women. Contact your doctor if you develop hypertension, headaches, chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat.

Liver Problems

Signs of possible liver injury include yellow skin/eyes, dark urine, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Prompt medical care is key to prevent complications.

Alternatives if Side Effects Persist

If troublesome side effects continue beyond 3 months on the i-6 pill, alternative birth control options may include:

Progestin-Only Pills

These pills contain no estrogen so may have fewer side effects. However, they must be taken at very strict times to work.

Other Combination Pills

Switching to a pill with different progestin or estrogen doses could reduce certain side effects.

Copper IUD

This non-hormonal device placed in the uterus provides long-acting but reversible contraception without hormones.

Condoms

Barrier methods like male and female condoms protect against pregnancy with fewer side effects and more control.

Discuss all your birth control options with your healthcare provider to find the right method for your needs and preferences.

The Takeaway

The i-6 pill prevents pregnancy effectively if taken as directed. Give your body time to adjust to the hormones and make an appointment if troubling symptoms develop or persist. Staying in touch with your healthcare provider ensures proper management of any side effects.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.