Starting the pill safely, and what to watch for once you do. The chapter covers how to weigh your lifestyle and medical history, where pills are available and how to choose between types, noting that combination pills are not recommended for some conditions, such as certain migraines. It explains when to start, what to know after having a baby or while breastfeeding, and the common side effects, including nausea, headaches and breakthrough bleeding. Readers learn about rarer but serious risks, such as blood clots and stroke, which symptoms need urgent medical attention, and which groups of people should avoid birth control pills altogether.