Final answer:
ACHES refers to the major signs of serious complications from oral contraceptives, including blood clots and increased risk of certain cancers. It is crucial to take pills as directed to prevent contraceptive failure and unintended pregnancies. Some medications can reduce pill effectiveness, and newer pills can eliminate menstruation without adverse health effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Serious Complications of Oral Birth Control Pills
Oral birth control pills are a widely used form of hormonal contraception that require careful adherence to dosing schedules to be effective. The acronym ACHES is often used to remember the major signs of serious complications from using oral contraceptives: Abdominal pain, Chest pain, Headaches, Eye problems, and Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs. Some of the more serious complications associated with these pills include increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and certain types of cancer such as breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. Birth control pills function by providing constant levels of estrogen and progesterone, which prevent ovulation and thereby prevent pregnancy. However, skipping a dose or taking a pill late can disrupt this hormonal balance, increasing Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels, and possibly leading to ovulation. It is crucial to follow the prescription instructions closely to maintain contraceptive efficacy and to prevent unintended pregnancies. It should also be noted that some medications, like antibiotics, can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, making it important to discuss potential interactions with a healthcare provider. For those seeking continuous contraception without the monthly menstruation, newer low-dose pills that are taken 365 days a year are available, eliminating the menstrual cycle without adverse health effects.