📌 Mnemonics — Side Effects of OCPs (Well-Organized Version)
1. Bleeding Issues
(Spotting, Breakthrough Bleeding, Hypomenorrhea, Amenorrhea)
Mnemonic: “S-B-H-A” = Some Bleeds Have Awkwardness
S: Spotting (due to inappropriate hormone dose)
B: Breakthrough Bleeding (intermenstrual bleeding)
H: Hypomenorrhea (lighter periods due to glandular atrophy)
A: Amenorrhea (absence of periods post pill, managed by ruling out pregnancy and withdrawal bleeding)
2. Serious Risks
(Thrombo-embolic, Hypertension, Diabetes, Liver)
Mnemonic: “T-H-D-L” = These Harmful Dangers Lurk
T: Thrombo-embolic Disorders (risk of blood clots increased 4–6 times)
H: Hypertension (increased risk in predisposed patients)
D: Diabetes Mellitus (impaired carbohydrate metabolism, harder glycemic control)
L: Liver issues (cholestasis, gallstones, rarely adenoma)
3. Minor Side Effects
(Nausea, Migraine, Irritability, Weight gain, Breast tender, Acne, Skin pigmentation, Libido change, Vaginal discharge, Eye symptoms)
Mnemonic: “N-MI W-BASL VE” = Now My Imbalance Will Bring A Sudden Loss, Very Exhausting
N: Nausea & vomiting (initial cycles)
M: Migraine headache
I: Irritability & depressive mood
W: Weight gain (mainly fluid retention)
B: Breast tenderness & enlargement
A: Acne worsening
S: Skin pigmentation (chloasma)
L: Libido change (decreased sexual desire)
V: Vaginal discharge (leucorrhea)
E: Eye symptoms (corneal edema, irritation)
4. Effect on Lactation
Decreased milk production & quality protein
(only with combined oral contraceptives — COCs)