Impact of Oral Contraceptives on Body Measurements and Associated Side Effects Among Women in Karbala: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

The study found that using OCP was strongly linked to a higher incidence of negative effects, namely headaches and weight gain.The purpose of this study is to determine the frequent adverse effects experienced by women in Karbala Province and to evaluate the influence of oral contraceptives on anthropometric measurements.Women in Karbala who were of reproductive age participated in a cross-sectional study. Both structured interviews and physical measurements were used to gather data. Participants were divided into groups according to whether or not they used oral contraceptives. To assess variations in body weight, BMI, and reported side effects, statistical analysis was employed.According to the study, using OCP was significant. The most commonly reported adverse effects were irregular menstruation, mood swings, headache, and nausea.The use of oral contraceptives is linked to a number of adverse effects and may affect body measurements. The significance of personalized counseling and monitoring of women on OCPs in Karbala is underscored by these findings.