The Most Common Side Effects, Concerns and Discontinuation Patterns of Oral Contraceptive  Pills Among Polish Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Natalia Karpowicz; Katarzyna Mączka; Adrian Skoczylas; Natalia Pacocha; Michał Kunicki; Monika Grymowicz; Roman Smolarczyk

doi:10.18502/jfrh.v18i3.16659

Natalia Karpowicz Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Katarzyna Mączka Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Adrian Skoczylas Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Natalia Pacocha Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Michał Kunicki Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Monika Grymowicz Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Roman Smolarczyk Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinical Hospital of Duchess Anna Mazowiecka, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jfrh.v18i3.16659

Keywords: Hormonal Contraception; Adverse Effects; Reproductive Behavior; Family Planning

Abstract

Objective: Over the decade, variety and effectiveness of contraception methods have greatly improved, resulting in increased popularity of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs). However, hormonal contraception carries the risk of multiple side effects. The lack of sufficient knowledge often leads to the development of health concerns, which can affect patient’s adherence. The aim of our research was to describe a side effect profile of OCPs and assess the most frequent concerns and discontinuation reasons in Polish women. The survey included questions regarding OCPs utilization patterns, side effects, health concerns and attitudes of the responders.

Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was based on a survey, which was distributed online and open from 29 April to 15 May 2022. The survey included questions regarding OCPs utilization patterns, side effects, health concerns and attitudes of the responders.

Results: Out of 1699 respondents, the current OCPs intake was reported by two thirds of women and 22% had a history of using them in the past. Seventy-nine percent of all OCPs users experienced adverse effects while 9% reported having concerns about safety and potential adverse effects. Decreased libido and weight gain were the most significant reasons for ceasing hormonal contraception. Moreover, the most common concerns and the most unfavorable side effects varied in different age groups. The occurrence of anxiety depended on age and education.

Conclusion: Healthcare professionals prescribing OCPs should provide their patients with comprehensive counseling. Understanding and addressing concerns of young women can improve their compliance and reduce the number of unintended pregnancies.