Birth Control Pills

What are they? How do they work?

Oral contraceptives or birth control pills (“the pill”) contain estrogen and progesterone, which arehormones similar to those made by a woman’s ovaries. The hormones in the pill keep the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens cervical mucus to block sperm from getting into the uterus. It also thins the lining of the uterus so that implantation is less likely to occur.

How effective are they?

• 99% effective for preventing pregnancy if taken every day
• The pill does not protect against HIV or other STIs.

How do you use them?

• Women take one pill by mouth around the same time every day.
• Most packs contain four weeks of pills. During the fourth week of pills, which are hormone-free and usually a different color, a woman will get her menstrual period. She is still protected from pregnancy during this time.
• When she takes the last pill in the pack, she will start a new pack the next day.

Pros

• The pill is very effective.
• A woman can predict when her period will come.
• Menstrual periods are regular and are often shorter, lighter, and less painful
• Lower incidence of non-cancerous breast cysts or lumps
• Lower incidence of cancer of the ovaries and lining of the uterus
• The pill is safe for healthy, non-smoking women.
• Little or no weight gain

Cons

Hormones increase the clotting factors in the blood and put women at a slightly higher risk for developing a blood clot that could cause a heart attack or stroke. Smoking increases this risk, so women who use hormonal contraceptives are strongly encouraged not to smoke.

Side effects may include breast tenderness, headache, nausea, possible small weight gain, and spotting. (Most side effects are not serious and often go away.)

Where can you get them?

They can be obtained at a doctor’s office or clinic and must be prescribed by a clinician.

When should you use them?

Pills should be taken around the same time everyday. A condom should be used along with birth control pills every time you have sex. Using condoms can prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and it shows that you care about yourself and your partner.

What does it cost?

$10-$50 per month depending upon insurance coverage and/or place of purchase

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