Most women who use the contraceptive pill for birth control do not get any side effects. Serious side effects from the contraceptive pill are very uncommon. However, from time to time, side effects can arise.

• The contraceptive pill may cause high blood pressure. You should have your blood pressure checked at least once a year if you take the pill.
• Temporary side effects include breast tenderness, nausea, acne, skin pigmentation changes and headaches.
• If side-effects don’t settle within 2 to 3 months you should consider trying a different form of birth control.

Weight-gain is not a proven side-effect of the contraceptive pill, and there is no convincing evidence that the pill causes mood changes.