What is it?
The birth control pill is what most people think of as "the pill". The pill is the most common birth control (BC) method and is highly effective if taken every day. There are many strengths and brands of contraceptive pills. You can talk with your clinician about which type of BC pills is right for you.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- 92-99% effective
- Can make periods lighter and less painful
- Can improve acne and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Doesn't interrupt sex
- Can help protect against ovarian cancer and cancer of the uterine lining
Cons:
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV.
- Side effects (can disappear over time, or can be helped by changing to a different pill with a different amount of hormones):
- Irregular bleeding
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tender or full breasts
- Mood changes
- Skin changes
- Headaches
- Must remember to take the pill every day at the same time
Who uses birth control pills?
People who have the self discipline to take a pill every single day and who have a safe place to store their pills.
How do you use birth control pills?
For most types of BC pills you swallow one pill every day for three weeks. The last week you either take a pill that has no hormones –a “reminder” pill to keep you in the habit of taking a pill each day-or take no pills for one week. This is when you will get your period. There are also pills you can take to not get your period at all. Talk to your provider about what kind of pills are best for you.
Where do you get birth control pills?
You can get a prescription for BC pills at a clinic near you.
How effective are birth control pills?
BC pills are 92-99% effective. They are most effective when taken every day. If you skip a pill during a pill cycle, you may be at higher risk for unintended pregnancy.
Does the pill offer STI protection?
NO. For STI protection use condoms with this method.