Abstract
This study investigates the adverse effects of hormonal contraceptives among women attending two primary health care centers in Holy Karbala City, Iraq. Despite their global prevalence due to effectiveness and reversibility, hormonal contraceptives remain under scrutiny for side effects, especially in contexts with limited healthcare literacy. Addressing a knowledge gap in localized user experiences and preferences, a cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to 355 women aged 15–49. Statistical analysis using SPSS revealed that oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) were the most commonly used method, particularly among housewives aged 30–39 with lower education levels. Significant side effects reported included mood disturbances (43.1%), menstrual irregularities (38%), weight gain (33%), and gastrointestinal issues, all varying by contraceptive type and user demographics. These findings highlight the need for enhanced medical counseling, informed contraceptive choice, and community-based education to mitigate side effects and improve reproductive health outcomes in similar populations.