SIDE effect management for contraceptive use

Question 1

Irregular bleeding

Answer 1

If using pills for over 3 months and still not have regular periods
- Take pill same time each day
- ibuprofen 800 mg PO TID for 5 days
- Change pill formulation

If using implant or IUD
- ibuprofen 800mg PO TID for 5 days
- combined pill with levonorgestrel for 1 cycle
- ethinyl estradiol 50mcg daily for 21 days

Question 2

Headaches

Answer 2

Ibuprofen, acetaminophen
- if it gets worse or more often seek evaluation

Question 3

Nausea

Answer 3

take pill at bedtime or with food
if at beginning of cycle consider continuous use/ extended cycle

Question 4

Breast tenderness

Answer 4

wear supportvie bra
hot and cold compress
NSAIDS
Consider product with lower dose of estrogen

Question 5

Acne

Answer 5

topical treatment
different formulation of pills
switch from implant/ IUD to combined pill

Question 6

Mood changes

Answer 6

• continuous cycle if changes during hormone-free week
  refer for care if major depression

Question 7

Pain after insertion/ removal

Answer 7

-avoid bandage that is too tight
ibuprofen, acetaminophen or other pain reliever