Birth control pill is a oral contraceptives that use hormones to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering the uterine lining. They are also used to regulate menstrual cycles and manage certain hormonal conditions.
What is the birth control pill?
It is a type of oral contraception that prevents pregnancy using hormones. Contraception is any form or device or method used for birth control (to prevent pregnancy).When taken exactly as prescribed, 99% pregnancy is prevented using birth control pills. The pill doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What are the types of birth control pill , How do they work and Which one should you take?
When planning to take one here's what you should know to help you make a smart choice.
Types of Oral Contraceptives:
- Combination Pill: Contains both progestin and estrogen.
- Progestin-Only Pill: Contains only progestin.
- Extended/Continuous Use Pill: A type of combination pill taken for longer cycles. ie to prevent ovulation, because if a female doesn't ovulate there is no egg to be fertilized and one cannot get pregnant.
How They Work:
- Combination Pills:
- Prevent ovulation (no egg released).
- Thicken cervical mucus, making it hard for sperm to enter the uterus.
- Affect the uterine lining, making it difficult for an egg to attach.
- Progestin-Only Pills (Minipill):
- Ideal for breastfeeding women or those with a history of blood clots or stroke.
Emergency Contraception:
- Morning-After Pill:
- Used in emergency situations when regular contraception fails or is not used.
- Works differently from daily birth control pills.
How effective is the birth control pill?
The pill is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken every day. Forgetting to take the pill at the scheduled time may increase your chances of pregnancy if you’re sexually active. 9 out of every 100 people on the pill have unintended pregnancies each year.
Things to Keep in Mind When Taking or when you forget taking Birth Control Pills?
Here's what you need to know about taking birth control pills:
- Daily Routine: Take the pill every day at the same time, especially important for progestin-only pills.
- First Week: Use a backup form of contraception, like condoms, for the first 7 days after starting the pill. After 7 days, the pill should work on its own to prevent pregnancy. Timing may vary based on the type of pill and when you start.
- Missed Pills: If you skip or forget a pill, you won't be protected against pregnancy. Use a backup method, like condoms, or avoid sex until you're back on track.
- No Sharing: Never take someone else's pills.
- Stay Prepared: Always carry your pills with you, especially if you sleep in different places.
- Timely Refills: Don't wait until the last minute to get your refills. Get them soon after starting your last prescription.
- Inform Healthcare Providers: Always let your doctor or pharmacist know you are on the pill when you see them for any reason.
At what age can one start taking birth control pills and if parents permissions is required for buying the pills?
There’s no minimum age once you start to get your period, but it depends on where you live. In some states, you can get a prescription without permission. It's best to ask your doctor or pharmacist about the laws in your area. Some doctors suggest waiting until around 16 to give your body a chance to properly establish its cycle. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor, parents, or a counselor to make sure you’re physically and mentally ready, both for the pill and for sex.
Does birth control pills cause infertility or affect your fertility?
Your ability to get pregnant be shouldnt affected even after long-term use of the pill as the hormones from the birth control pill only stay in your body for a short amount of time. Once you stop taking the pill, your body will go back to its normal cycle. When this happens, you'll be able to get pregnant. Your cycle usually takes a few months to return to normal.
Will the pill make my period cycle more irregular or make me gain weight or make my breasts larger?
Here’s what you should know about how the birth control pill can affect your body:
Cycle Predictability :
- The pill can make your menstrual cycle more predictable, causing your period to come at the same time each month.
- Effects can vary depending on the type and amount of hormones in your pill. You might even miss a period occasionally.
- Cramps and bleeding may be lighter.
Weight Gain :
- Weight gain while on the pill is very unlikely.
- A review of over 40 studies found no link between the pill and weight gain.
- You might feel heavier around your thighs, hips, and breasts, likely due to water weight and bloating, not fat gain.
Breast Changes :
- Your breasts may become larger, especially at first.
- Estrogen and progestin in the pills can cause fluid retention and growth of breast tissue.
- These changes often go away after a few cycles or when you stop taking the pill.
Does the use of birth control pills cause cancer?
The pill is not linked with an overall increased risk of cancer. Its use is tied to a lower risk of colorectal, endometrial, and ovarian cancers. However, a higher risk of breast and cervical cancers has been seen in current and recent birth control pill users, but the risk went away within 5 years.
When should you avoid taking hormonal contraceptives?
If you have had any of the following:
- Have migraine headaches with aura
- Have high blood pressure that isn’t well-controlled
- Are over 35 and smoke
- Blood clots in the arms, legs, or lungs
- Have diabetes-related complications like nephropathy, retinopathy, or neuropathy
- Have a history of stroke, heart disease, liver disease, circulation problems, or breast cancer or uterine cancer, unexplained uterine bleeding
- Started breastfeeding within the past month
- Recently had surgery
Does birth control pill have any side effects?
Common Side Effects :
- Menstrual changes
- Dizziness
- Breast pain
- Tiredness
- Lower belly pain
- Headache
- Nausea
- Belly pain
- Menstrual pain
Less Common but Serious Side Effects :
- Severe abdominal (belly) pain
- Chest pain
- Severe headaches
- Eye problems (blurred vision)
- Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs
Note: If you experience any of these serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. They could indicate serious conditions such as liver disease, gallbladder disease, stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, or heart disease.
Resources :