Forma Medical WellnessBirth Control Pill safety
Prescription birth control to prevent pregnancy and help manage your cycle. A clinician will help find an option that's safe for your health history.
Start Your IntakeFree clinician review · No subscription required
Birth Control Pill
combined or progestin-only oral contraceptiveDaily oral tablet
Hormonal birth control prevents pregnancy mainly by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. It can also make cycles more regular.
What it treats
- Prevention of pregnancy
- Cycle regulation, and management of acne or heavy/painful periods in some cases
Who shouldn't take it
- History of blood clots (DVT/PE), stroke, or heart disease (estrogen-containing pills)
- Migraine with aura
- Smoker over age 35
- History of breast or other estrogen-sensitive cancer
- Current or possible pregnancy
Warnings & precautions
- Increased risk of blood clots, especially for smokers over 35
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
- May interact with certain medications and supplements
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure needs review
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting between periods
- Mood changes
- Headache
Call your clinician if you notice
- Leg pain/swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath (possible clot)
- Severe headache or vision changes
Ready to see if this fits you?
Start Your IntakeThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. A licensed Forma clinician will review your health history and current medications to determine whether treatment is safe and appropriate for you. Never start, stop, or change a prescription without talking to a healthcare provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.