While birth control can bring a lot of regularity to your menstrual cycle, you may experience an adjustment period when beginning or switching to a new medication. Because of hormone fluctuation, you may notice feeling slightly off, both emotionally and physically. If you’re starting a new birth control regimen, learn more about common issues when adjusting to these changes.

Can Birth Control Change Your Period?

Birth control that contains hormones can impact your menstrual cycle’s timing and flow. While the combined hormone pill typically reduces the flow each cycle, the mini-pill or an implant may cause spotting between periods. It can take two to three months for your body to adjust to new birth control. Use a journal to keep track of any abnormal bleeding, use a heating pad to manage any discomfort caused by cramps, and schedule an appointment with your gynecologist if your system doesn’t regulate.

Will You Experience Headaches or Nausea?

Because of the fluctuation in hormones, you may notice more frequent headaches or even nausea when you first start birth control. These symptoms typically develop at the beginning of your cycle and can be combatted with pain-relieving medication. You can also try to take the pill after eating a snack since taking it on an empty stomach can heighten these issues.

Will Birth Control Affect Your Moods?

If you tend to experience PMS-like symptoms during your menstrual cycle, you may notice an increased mood shift prior to your period starting. This occurs because your body is still adjusting to the change in hormones caused by birth control and usually returns to normal after two to three months. Try to find time to unwind and destress, whether through reading a book or going for a run to combat emotional changes, and talk to your gynecologist if these symptoms don’t resolve on their own.

If you want to learn more about birth control options, talk to the professionals at The Center for Women in Mountain Home, AR. This facility provides a range of women’s health services, whether you want to learn more about the pill or family planning. Visit The Center online or call (870) 425-7300.