North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a dangerous side effect of oral contraceptives that should be reported immediately?

1. Weight gain

2. Severe headaches

3. Light spotting

4. Increased appetite

The correct answer is: Severe headaches

Severe headaches can be a dangerous side effect of oral contraceptives, particularly if they are new in onset, unusually severe, or different from any headaches the individual may have experienced previously. These headaches could indicate a serious condition such as hypertension or the potential for blood clots, including the risk of stroke, especially in women with other risk factors. Therefore, if a patient reports severe headaches after starting oral contraceptives, it should be taken seriously and addressed immediately in a clinical setting. Monitoring for changes in headache patterns is crucial, as timely intervention can be essential for the safety and health of the patient. In contrast, weight gain, light spotting, and increased appetite, while they may be bothersome or concerning to some individuals, are generally not considered emergency situations and do not typically pose immediate health risks that necessitate urgent medical intervention.