What are possible side-effects of the combined pill?

Some women may experience temporary side-effects when beginning combined pills, but these usually stop within a few months. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, spotty skin, breast tenderness, weight changes or headaches.  Some women report changes in bleeding patterns (lighter, irregular, infrequent or no monthly bleeding).  Some women see improvement in their acne.

Although some women report mood and weight changes, research shows that while combined pills may be associated with mood changes, there is no evidence that it causes depression. Currently, evidence does not support the concern that taking combined pills directly causes weight gain.⁴⁷