Overview 

Birth control pills are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken consistently. 

The hormones in the pill: 

  • Regulate menstruation,
  • decrease PMS symptoms 
  • Reduce the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers,
  • Relieve acne and treat endometriosis.

Types

●Combination pills- contain estrogen and progestin. (most common type)

●Progestin-only pills (the minipill).- may be better if you’re breastfeeding or have a history of  venous thromboembolism or stroke (Estrogen worsens these conditions).

Emergency Contraception: What to Know

The morning-after pill is a type of birth control you can take in emergency situations when you’re not using typical birth control, and you’re at risk of pregnancy.

Brand names include Plan B One-Step® and ella®.

Usage

Take birth control pills exactly as prescribed.

Different dosing packets exist: 

  • 21-day pill packs: active pills for 21 days, 7 days with no pills and starting again on the 29th day.
  • 28-day pill pack: active pills for 21 days, inactive pulls for 7 days.
  • 91-day pill packs: the active pills are taken for 12 weeks and inactive pills for 7 days.
  • 365 days of pills: active pills daily for 365 days.

When you miss a pill:Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, and continue taking your usual dose as planned. 

As a precaution you can use a backup form of birth control until you’ve taken seven days of active pills. Also check the instructions on the package of the pill.

While using the pill be alert on medications that react with the pill making it less active such as:

  • Antiseizure drugs.
  • Herbal supplements, such as St. John’s wort.
  •  Anti- HIV drugs

Always consult your doctor  on medications and herbal Supplements. 

When breast feeding : Your doctor may recommend taking the progestin-only pill if you’re breastfeeding. Estrogen can decrease milk production.

Benefits of the Pill

Make your menstrual cycle lighter or more regular.

Prevent anemia associated with periods

Reduce menstrual cramps and menstrual migraines.

Lessen symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Reduce hot flashes during the transition into menopause (perimenopause).

Treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Treat endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

Lower your risk of ovarian cancer, uterine cancer and colon cancer.

Stop unwanted hair growth (hirsutism) and clear acne.

Easily reversible: You can get pregnant immediately you stop the pill.

The common disadvantage is that it does not protect against STI.

Common side effects

Nausea.

Headaches.

Irritability or moodiness.

Breast tenderness or swelling.

Spotting between periods.