While hearing the everlasting list of side effects that the contraceptive pill may have, feeling sick and nauseous has been reported by 4.4% of women, but have we ever wondered why?
According to The National Archives, approximately 3.1 million women are on the contraceptive pill in England and they state it is hard to quantify the huge impact such a small pill has had on women’s lives - although they do state it gives us greater certainty and choice.
When listing the common side effects of the pill, headaches, feeling sick or dizzy and sore breasts is on there.
But why the constant feeling of sickness?
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Why do I feel nauseous?
Although there are a number of contraceptive pills out there, the majority affects your hormones in several ways such as preventing ovulation - meaning the pill contains synthetic forms of estrogen and progestin, which prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg during your menstrual cycle.
Therefore, the levels of natural hormones begin to change, which can cause discomfort and nausea. In fact, estrogen has been found to irritate the stomach lining and the higher the estrogen level in your pill, the more likely you might be to feel nauseous.
What do the experts say?
Angela Jones, MD, Astroglide’s resident OB/GYN explained to Refinery29 that if you are suffering from these side effects, give it three months. She explains that that’s how long it takes your body to adjust to a new pill.
If it persists, you may want to consider either a progesterone-only - less likely to cause nausea - pill, a non-pill form of contraceptive or a non-hormonal option.
If you do decide to stay on your normal pill, according to Healthline, there are no specific treatments for nausea.
How to treat it?
However, there are some home remedies that may help you find mild relief.
Consuming only light, plain foods, such as bread and crackers is found to help, avoiding any foods that have strong flavours, are very sweet or are greasy, drinking cold liquids, avoid any activity after eating and taking a series of deep, controlled breaths, may all help your nausea.
Applying pressure to certain points on the wrist has also been found to relieve mild nausea, however, if the problem persists, make an appointment to see your doctor.
Maybe one day there will be a pill that we can use that won't come with a long list of things to worry about…
Topics: Health, NHS, Science, Women's Health, Sex and Relationships
Sara Keenan