# Side effects & switching methods

> Not loving your contraception? You’re allowed to change it.

Category: Contraception · 4 min read · Written by the Splash team · Sources checked October 2026
URL: https://splash.care/learn/contraception/side-effects-and-switching

## Quick answer

- Side effects often settle within 3 months.
- Tracking symptoms helps you and your clinician decide.
- Switching is normal – plan the change to avoid a gap.
- Know the urgent warning signs.

[Contraception](https://splash.care/learn/contraception/methods-overview) should work for your life, not the other way around. If something’s not right, a change is totally normal – there are lots of options.

## Common side effects to track

- Bleeding changes – [spotting](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/spotting), [irregular](https://splash.care/learn/cycle-basics/irregular-cycles), heavier or no periods
- [Mood changes](https://splash.care/learn/mind-mood/why-mood-shifts)
- [Headaches](https://splash.care/learn/period-care/migraines)
- [Sore breasts](https://splash.care/learn/body-literacy/breast-changes) or nausea
- Changes in sex drive (the NHS lists hormonal contraception as one possible cause of low [libido](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/libido))
- Acne changes

> **Splash says:** log symptoms and mood in Splash for a few months. A clear pattern makes your appointment much easier.

## Give it time – usually

Many side effects, especially bleeding with the pill, settle within the first 3 months. If they don’t, or they’re affecting your life, talk to a pharmacist, nurse or doctor. Options include a different pill, a [Tailored regime](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/tailored-regime), or a totally different method.

## Switching safely

- Don’t leave a gap – ask how to move from one method to the next without losing protection
- You may need condoms for a few days (often 7) depending on the switch
- Coils and implants can be removed whenever you choose

**Myth:** If one hormonal method gave you side effects, they all will.

**Fact:** Different methods use different hormones and doses. Many people find a better fit after switching, and hormone-free options exist too.

### When to see a doctor

Stop and seek urgent help for signs of a blood clot (one-sided leg pain or swelling, chest pain, breathlessness, sudden severe headache, weakness on one side). See a GP soon for low mood that’s affecting your daily life, new migraines with visual disturbance (aura), or bleeding after sex.

## Sources

1. [NHS – Side effects and risks of the combined pill](https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/combined-pill/side-effects/)
2. [NHS – Contraception: effects on periods](https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/choosing-contraception/effects-on-periods/)
3. [NHS – Loss of libido](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/loss-of-libido/)
4. [NHS – Side effects and risks of the progestogen-only pill](https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/progestogen-only-pill/side-effects-and-risks/)

This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US).