Birth Control Options

Oral Contraceptive Pills

What is it?

"The Pill" is a simple and highly effective method of contraception for women. Pills must be taken once a day, at a specific time and is prescribed by a health professional.
There are two main types:

1. Combination pill, which contains both estrogen and progesterone

2. Progestin-only pill (or mini-pill), which contains progesterone only
One hormone pill is taken each day for 21 days, followed by one hormone-free week. (You should expect your period during this hormone-free week)



How does it work?

• Stops the ovaries from releasing eggs
• Thickens the cervical mucus making it difficult for sperm to get to the egg
• Changes the lining of the uterus, making implantation difficult

How effective is it in preventing pregnancy?

Oral contraceptive pills are about 99.9% effective if taken exactly as prescribed. However, there is a 3% user failure rate.

What are the advantages?

• One of the most effective, reversible birth control methods (when taken consistently)
• Simple and easy to use
• Regulates the menstrual cycle
• Reduces menstrual cramping
• Reduces menstrual flow
• Does not interfere with sex
• Decreases acne
• Reduces the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer
• May reduce perimenopausal symptoms

What are the disadvantages?

• The pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
• Hormones may cause side effects, such as: bleeding between periods (break-through bleeding), nausea and vomiting, headaches, breast tenderness and moodiness. These side effects generally disappear after a few months.
• Must be taken at the same time every day
• Effectiveness may be reduced by other medications
• Need a prescription
• Should not be used by women over the age of 35 who smoke
• May increase the risk of blood clots, particularly in women who have certain blood disorders or a family history of blood clots
• May not be suitable for breastfeeding women or women who cannot take estrogen because of a medical condition. The progestin-only pill may be offered for these women.