BC pills and headaches link?

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-16-2005
BC pills and headaches link?
4
Mon, 03-27-2006 - 7:36pm
I've been on the pill since last July, and have not had any problems until now. Headaches were always a usual thing with me, getting a couple a week that would subside on their own, but not respond to tylenol or ibuprofin. About 6 weeks ago I started feeling sick, and a cold progressed into flu symptoms, and then sinus-type pressure and ear pain. I was prescribed antibiotics, and have since finished those almost 2 weeks ago. I don't feel sick anymore, but still have the almost constant pain in my head (like it has a too-small helmet around it), ear pressure, and generally tired/sore. Could this be BC pills or sinus or what? Thanks!
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iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Mon, 03-27-2006 - 9:03pm

Hi tortoisegirl, welcome!

While combined (estrogen/progestin) contraceptives can make the incidence of headaches more likely for some women who experience migraines it sounds to me as though your current problems may have been caused by your recent bout of flu. I think you may still have some sinus problems and perhaps blocked eustacian tubes. A self diagnosis matrix for ear problems is at: http://familydoctor.org/507.xml and there is additional information about ear infections at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/earinfections.html. I think it would be a very good idea for you to see an ear, nose and throat doctor do get a proper diagnosis of what’s going on.

Thanks for posting. I hope you are feeling better soon. You know taking antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of your BCPs, right? So, if you are prescribed more ABs be sure to use back-up while taking them and for at least 7 active pills in a row after the last dose of medicine. For more about medicines and possible decreased BCP effectiveness see the post in our FAQs about taking your pills correctly. Let us know what your doctor says and how you’re doing, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-16-2005
Tue, 03-28-2006 - 12:30pm
Thank you for your help! I'm going back to the doctor today (fourth time) and may need to see a specialist if they can't help. We have been using backup.
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iVillage Member
Registered: 08-16-2005
Wed, 03-29-2006 - 3:14pm

The doctor decided I needed yet another course of antibiotics...some stronger ones apparently.

On a side note, anyone have ideas on what to use for backup? I hate the smell and feel of condoms, and there are 23 days until I'll be safe again.

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iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Wed, 03-29-2006 - 7:04pm

Hi tortoisegirl, welcome back,

Thanks for the update. I hope the new med does the trick and you feel loads better soon. I know the latex smell and lack of sensation with condoms can be a turn-off. As far as the scent of rubber is concerned some latex condoms are advertised as being scent free or you could try polyurethane condoms. Check the Internet there is a large selection available. Other choices are vaginal spermicides (used alone they are about 80% effective) and the contraceptive sponge (80% effective for parous women and 90% effective for nulliparous women) neither of which is as effective as condoms (98%) when used correctly.

Let us know what you decide and how you're doing, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill