Vienva Side Effects: What to Expect When Starting and Stopping This Birth Control

Common Side Effects When First Starting Vienva

It's normal to experience some side effects during your first 1-3 months on Vienva as your body adjusts to the hormones. Some of the most common include:

Nausea

Upset stomach and nausea often occur when beginning Vienva. This should subside within the first few cycles as your system adapts. Taking the pill with food can help minimize queasiness.

Breast Tenderness

Swollen or painful breasts are not unusual when starting Vienva. This hormonal side effect typically improves gradually over the first three months.

Spotting

You may experience occasional light bleeding or spotting between periods. This often becomes less frequent over time. If it persists, consult your doctor.

Headaches

Hormone fluctuations can trigger headaches in some women on Vienva. These are usually mild early on and should lessen with continued use.

Mood Changes

Some women notice changes in mood such as depression, anxiety, or irritability. Oral contraceptives with progestin can influence brain chemistry and emotions.

Ongoing Side Effects of Vienva

While some side effects improve quickly, Vienva can cause other long-term effects. Being aware of these can help you address them appropriately.

Changed Bleeding Patterns

It's common to experience altered menstrual bleeding while on the pill. You may have lighter, more frequent, or prolonged periods. Some women stop having monthly periods altogether.

Weight Gain

Possible water retention and increased appetite from Vienva may lead to modest weight gain in some users. Maintaining healthy diet and exercise habits can help counteract this.

Reduced Libido

Hormonal birth control can lower testosterone levels, which may decrease sex drive. However, some women experience increased arousal on Vienva. Reactions vary individually.

Acne

Breakouts may worsen in the first few months on Vienva before the hormones even out. Levonorgestrel can also exacerbate acne long-term in those prone to it.

Digestive Issues

Some women develop nausea, bloating, or diarrhea. The pill impacts gut microbiota balance for some users.

Fatigue

Feeling tired, sluggish or low energy is not uncommon when taking Vienva. Hormone changes influence energy levels.

Serious Side Effects of Vienva

In rare cases, Vienva can trigger severe adverse effects. Being aware of these risks allows prompt medical care if they occur.

Blood Clots

Clots can form deep in the veins of the legs in some Vienva users. Blood clots can be life-threatening if they travel to the heart, lungs or brain. Seek emergency care for symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness or leg swelling.

High Blood Pressure

Vienva may raise blood pressure in those predisposed to hypertension. Have your blood pressure monitored regularly on the pill.

Gallbladder Issues

The hormones in Vienva can impair bile flow, worsening gallbladder disease. Women prone to gallstones may want to avoid this birth control option.

Liver Tumors

Very rarely, malignant liver tumors have been linked to oral contraceptive use. Seek medical care for abdominal pain, yellowing skin or eyes, or feeling unwell.

Stroke

Women over age 35 who smoke have an increased stroke risk on the pill due to blood clots. Quitting smoking helps minimize this danger.

Side Effects When Stopping Vienva

Just as starting Vienva causes side effects, stopping the medication does too. Changes you may experience after discontinuing include:

Menstrual Irregularities

It can take a few months for normal menstrual cycles to resume after the pill. You may miss periods, have heavy bleeding, or very light periods initially.

Headaches

Some women have frequent or severe headaches after quitting Vienva as hormone levels drop. These typically resolve within a few months.

Acne

Hormone withdrawal can trigger breakouts. Follow a consistent skin care routine to help clear up post-pill acne.

Mood Shifts

Depression, anxiety and irritability can emerge during hormone fluctuation. Mood usually stabilizes within 3 months of stopping.

Weight Changes

Some women lose weight after discontinuing Vienva as water retention decreases. Others may gain weight as metabolism slows and appetite increases.

Transitioning Off Vienva

To minimize withdrawal side effects when stopping Vienva, follow these tips:

Gradual Tapering

Wean off the pill over a few months if possible, taking it every other day and then every third day before fully stopping. This allows a gradual hormone adjustment.

Alternative Contraception

Use a backup birth control method like condoms during the transition off Vienva to avoid unplanned pregnancy.

Monitor for Danger Signs

Watch for symptoms of blood clots and consult a doctor if you have leg pain, chest pain, coughing, headaches or vision issues.

See Your Doctor

Schedule a medical checkup 1-3 months after discontinuing birth control. Your doctor can assess side effects and changes.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Minimize symptoms by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress through yoga/meditation, and getting enough sleep.

Be patient with your body as it adjusts to functioning without contraceptive hormones. Side effects typically resolve within a few menstrual cycles. Pay attention to any persistent or severe symptoms and seek medical guidance if concerned.

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.