Contraception · For ages 13–17
Can contraception affect my periods or how I feel?
Hormonal contraception can affect bleeding and cause side effects. The changes people notice vary from person to person.
What happens?
Contraception can affect the body and bleeding
Different contraceptive methods contain different hormones or work in different ways. They can therefore affect the body differently.
Some people bleed less or stop bleeding, while others have irregular bleeding. Some notice side effects such as headaches, nausea, tender breasts or other changes.
This does not automatically mean contraception is dangerous, but severe or persistent symptoms can be a reason to speak with the person who prescribed it.
Learn more
Which describes what you have noticed?
Choose the option that fits best to see guidance on what you can do next.
Changes in bleeding are common with several hormonal contraceptive methods. If bleeding is very heavy, lasts a long time or worries you, ask a healthcare professional.
Your bleeding pattern depends on the method. Hormonal contraception can mean lighter, more irregular or no bleeding. The bleeding is not always an ordinary period.
Give the name of the method, when you started and any missed doses. New pain, heavy bleeding or a possible pregnancy should be assessed separately rather than automatically attributed to contraception.
If you notice a clear change after starting contraception, you can note when it began and speak with the person who prescribed it.
Describe the change specifically, such as headache, mood, skin or energy, and when it started. A connection in timing is useful information, but does not prove the cause by itself.
Both side effects and other possible explanations can be assessed. Arrange follow-up and ask what alternatives are suitable if the method causes symptoms you want help with.
There are several options. Healthcare professionals can help you compare effectiveness, side effects and what fits your health and needs.
Think about what you want to change: bleeding, side effects, insertion or having to remember daily doses. Healthcare professionals can discuss the options and your health.
Ask for a specific switching plan with dates, any condom use and when the new method protects you. Mention recent sex without a condom, since it may matter when switching or stopping.
What can you do now?
You can bring the name of the contraceptive, when you started and what changes you have noticed.
If you want to stop or switch, ask how to avoid a gap in protection against pregnancy. Use a condom if you are uncertain whether your contraception is protecting you.
Find the words you need
Create a short message you can say, show or send to someone you trust, a school nurse or a doctor.
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