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As good as it is, the Pill can have a few minor side effects, which are uncomfortable more than dangerous. "The benefits of the Pill far outweigh the drawbacks," says Suzanne Trupin, M.D., clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at University of Illinois College of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign.

"Because birth control pills come in 30 different kinds, a small number of side effects still plague women," says Trupin. These side effects can include nausea, bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness, headaches or depression. Often you can get relief with a change of prescription, so talk to your doctor about finding the right kind of pill for you. Sometimes these symptoms simply disappear after the first three to five months. If you encounter any of these symptoms, consider trying some simple adjustments to lessen any discomfort.

Weight gain
Little evidence exists for a connection between pill use and permanent weight gain. However, Trupin says Pill-related weight gain is still a fear for many women. When her patients express concern, she helps them devise a weight-management regimen when they begin taking the Pill. "Individuals who can be strict on their diet and exercise routines can attain heart-healthy weight," she says. "But it takes commitment to your regimen."

Nausea
When you start your next pill cycle, try taking them before you go to bed (proper use of the Pill requires that users take one Pill at approximately the same time every day), says Trupin. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Or try an herbal antidote, such as peppermint or ginger. For forms and dosages for this and other herbs below see Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs (Rodale Press, 1998).

Breast tenderness
Trupin recommends decreasing caffeine consumption and increasing vitamin E. She also suggests wearing a supportive bra, perhaps even to bed.

Bloating
Increase your water intake and decrease salt, says Trupin. Also, try a natural diuretic such as grapefruit juice or caffeine, or an herbal remedy, such as bioflavinoids, parsley, Evening Primrose Oil, peppermint, fennel or rosemary.

Headaches
A few foods have been shown to exacerbate migraines and sometimes non-migraine headaches, says Trupin. Try avoiding sharp cheeses and red wine. You can also supplement your diet with magnesium, calcium, vitamins D and B2, feverfew, ginkgo, willow bark or yucca, which have all been shown to reduce headache suffering. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Obviously, you should consult your doctor about chronic headaches.

Depression
While there is some evidence that dietary adjustments may help, such as taking vitamins B6, B12, magnesium or St. John's Wort, Trupin strongly suggests you get an accurate diagnosis from a doctor.

Because of the Pill's many advantages, Trupin is a proponent of its use. She encourages women to work through the side effects because "when women cease taking the Pill, they may be faced with unplanned pregnancies as well as minimizing the non-contraceptive benefits of the Pill."

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