Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills are > 90% effective in preventing pregnancy. They can help regulate menstruation, ease its symptoms, relieve heavy bleeding, improve acne, reduce the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers, and treat endometriosis.
However, birth control pills cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To reduce the risks, the use of a condom is indispensable.
Types of birth control pills
Birth control pills are of two types:
- Combination birth control pills (estrogen and progestin) are the most commonly used.
- Progestin-only pills are for emergency use only. They are also applicable for breastfeeding women or those with a history of cerebrovascular disease or deep vein thrombosis.
Effectiveness of birth control pills
A birth control pill is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with a success rate of 93%, when taken consistently every day. Missing or forgetting to take the pills can decrease their efficacy. The effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills or morning-after pills is only 60%-80%. This type of contraceptive should not be taken regularly as your primary birth control method.
How birth control pills work
- Prevent egg maturation or hinder ovulation.
- Thickening of cervical mucus, impeding sperm from entering and fertilizing the egg.
- Diminish the thickness of the uterine lining, preventing the uterine implantation of a fertilized egg.
How to take birth control pills
Take the pills on days 3-5 of your menstruation for optimum efficacy.
The contraceptive pills are available in various dosing packets 1) birth control pills that allow regular menstruation, such as 21 or 28 pills, and 2) long-term birth control pills, such as 84 or 365 pills. Each packet contains pills with different formulations and varying timing for taking the pills. Hence, it behooves you to take the correct pill at the designated time for optimal efficacy.
Combination pills
Combination pills in blister packaging, you will find both active and inactive or placebo pills.
- Traditional dose packs
- The 28-day pack consists of 21 active and seven inactive pills, or 24 active and four inactive pills. While taking the placebo pills, you can have vaginal bleeding. Once you have completed the pack, you can immediately start a new packet.
- 21-day pack contains 21 active pills. You will have a seven-day pill-free interval. You may experience bleeding during that time. Then, you can resume taking the pills on day 29.
- Progestin-only pills
- 28 active pills must be taken at the same time every day within a three-hour window.
- 24 active and four inactive pills
When will the pill become effective after being taken?
If starting the first pill within the first three days of a menstrual period, it will be protective during the current menstrual cycle after one week. Hence, during the first week, condom use is mandatory for sex.
What should I do if I miss a pill?
If you miss a pill for a day, take it as soon as you remember. Use a condom for the next seven days for sex. Consult a pharmacist or doctor if you miss the pills for multiple days.
Is it possible to take other medications while taking birth control pills?
It is essential to consult your doctor before taking any new medications or dietary supplements while taking birth control pills. Some drugs may reduce contraceptive effectiveness, particularly antiseizure medications, herbal supplements, and HIV medications.
Can I take birth control pills while breastfeeding?
If you breastfeed, you should opt for the progestin-only pill because the combination birth control pill contains estrogen, which can potentially reduce milk production. However, always consult with your doctor.
What are the benefits of birth control pills?
- Convenience: Once-a-day pill that is easy to purchase.
- Effectiveness: Its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy is 93%.
- Quick return of fertility: As soon as you stop taking birth control pills, you can become pregnant.
In addition, birth control pills can:
- Clear acne and minimize unwanted hair growth.
- Regulate your period and lighten the amount of your period, preventing anemia.
- Relieve menstrual cramps and menstrual migraines.
- Alleviate premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) symptoms and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
- Reduce the risk of developing ovarian, uterine, and colon cancer.
Can birth control pills prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
No, they cannot prevent you from sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia, genital herpes, HIV, or HPV.
Are there any side effects of birth control pills?
Initially, you may experience side effects, such as headaches, nausea, irritability, breast tenderness, and vaginal spotting between periods. The symptoms will gradually improve or go away after 2-3 months. If the symptoms do not resolve or aggravate, consult your doctor to change the medications or have a proper diagnosis. Severe but rare side effects are blood clots, breast lumps, or cancer may develop with prolonged use of over 5-10 years.
Do birth control pills make you gain or lose weight?
No, they do not.
Cautions when taking birth control pills.
Refrain from taking birth control pills if you have the following health problems.
- Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Avoid combination pills.
- Uterine or breast cancer.
- Uncontrolled hypertension.
- Smokers > 35 years old.
- Stroke or heart disease.
- Severe migraines.
- Vaginal bleeding of unknown cause.
- Liver diseases.
Individuals with preexisting health conditions should consult a doctor before birth control use.
