How Safe Are Birth Control Pills For Women?

Birth control or oral contraceptives is a pill that is taken by women and contains estrogen and a progestogen. The pill is safe, affordable and effective if taken on time everyday. The pill is taken once a day orally to prevent pregnancy until a woman is ready to conceive.

How does birth control prevent pregnancy?

The birth control pill aims to prevent the sperm from fertilising with an egg. The hormones in the pill prevents ovulation and this means that there are no eggs looming around for the sperm to fertilise with. The pill also thickens the mucus on the cervix and forms a guard which prevents the sperm from swimming to an egg.

How effective are birth control pills?

Birth control can be taken at any time of the month depending on when you start and the type of pill that you are using. This means that you need to practise safe sex and use condoms for up to 7 days when starting the pill. Birth control pills are said to be 99% effective when taken correctly. However, there is a very small chance that you could still get pregnant, even if you always take your pills correctly. When you take the pill every day and start your pill pack correctly, the more effective it will be. To make sure that you are taking your pill on time, you can make use of a birth control app or set your alarm at a specific time to remind you to take your pills when needed to.

What are the two different types of birth control pills?

Combination pills (COCs) – This is the most common type of birth control and contains estrogen and progestin. This type of pill is significantly more effective at preventing pregnancy.
Progestin-Only Pills (Mini Pills) – This pill only contains progestin and does not contain any estrogen. This pill must be taken within the same 3 hours everyday to avoid falling pregnant. This pill is ideal for women with underlying medical conditions and sensitive to estrogen.

What are the side effects of birth control pills?

The hormones that are in the pills can cause common side effects but may not be experienced by everyone.These side effects can last up to 2-3 months and is a sign that your body is adjusting to the hormones of the pill.

The common side effects includes:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness
  • Changes in your menstrual cycle
  • Spotting

Taking birth control pills can be easy when remembering to take it everyday. In order to get a supply of pills, you will need to consult a doctor and receive a prescription. It would be advisable to speak to your doctor on what type and brand of contraceptive to use in order for your body to adjust.

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