How do I track medication side effects?

Bottom lineIn Femora you can log side effects (and a note) with each medication dose; the app then shows monthly trends and whether a side effect clusters around a point in your cycle, which helps you decide whether to wait it out, adjust timing, or ask about switching - but seek prompt care for warning signs like chest pain or new aura.

Tracking side effects helps you and your clinician tell whether a medication is settling in, causing problems, or interacting with your cycle.

In Femora

When you log a dose, you can add side effects (such as headache, nausea, breast tenderness, or mood changes) and a note. Over time the app shows:

• Monthly trends - how often each side effect shows up
• Cycle correlation - whether a side effect tends to cluster around a particular point in your cycle

That second view is especially useful, because some side effects track your hormones rather than the medication itself.

Why it's worth doing

Many side effects settle within the first 2 to 3 months. Having a clear record makes it easier to decide whether to wait it out, adjust timing, or ask about switching - and gives your clinician real data instead of a vague memory.

When to seek advice

Some symptoms need prompt medical attention rather than tracking - for example severe leg pain or swelling, chest pain, a sudden severe headache, or new migraine with aura on hormonal contraception. Don't wait on those.

This is general information, not medical advice. Consult your prescriber about decisions on side effects or changes to your regimen.