How Does the Birth Control Pill Work? A Comprehensive Guide

The pill prevents pregnancy in three main ways:

• Stops Ovulation: The pill stops your ovaries from releasing an egg each month. If there’s no egg, you can’t get pregnant.

• Thickens Cervical Mucus: The pill makes the mucus around your cervix thicker, which makes it hard for sperm to get through and reach an egg.

• Thins the Uterine Lining: The pill makes the lining of your uterus thinner, so if an egg did get fertilized, it would have a harder time attaching and growing.

Who Should Use Which Type

• Combined Pill: Good for women who want regular periods and extra health benefits. It should not be used by women who smoke and are over 35, or have certain health problems. Common brand names in the US include Yaz, Yasmin, and Aviane.

• Progestin-Only Pill (Mini-Pill): Good for women who can’t take estrogen, like those who are breastfeeding. It's important to take it at the same time every day. Common brand names in the US include Camila, Errin, and Heather.

While the primary purpose of the birth control pill is to prevent pregnancy, it also offers several additional health benefits that can improve quality of life and address various medical conditions:

• Very effective: If you take it correctly, the pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

• Regulates periods: The pill helps make your periods more regular and lighter.

• Reduces period pain: Many people have less pain and cramping while on the pill.

• Helps with acne: Some pills can help clear up acne.

• Can help with PCOS: The pill is often used to help with symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Lowers risk of some cancers: Using the pill for a long time can lower your risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.

• Prevents ovarian cysts and helps with endometriosis: The pill can help stop cysts from forming and reduce pain from endometriosis.

Possible Side Effects and Risks

Most people have no problems with the pill, but some may have:

• Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach)

• Headaches

• Mood changes

• Breast tenderness

• Spotting between periods

Rare but serious risks include:

• Blood clots (especially if you smoke, are over 35, or have certain health conditions)

• High blood pressure

• Liver or gallbladder problems

See a doctor right away if you have:

• Bad pain in your chest, leg, or stomach

• Trouble breathing

• Sudden vision changes

• Severe headaches

• Yellow skin or eyes

• Take one pill at the same time every day.

• Try to make it part of your daily routine, like when you brush your teeth.

• If you miss a pill, take it as soon as you remember. If you miss more than one, follow the instructions in your pill pack or ask your doctor.

• There are different types of packs (21-day, 24-day, 28-day). Follow the directions for your pack and start the next pack on time.

Common Myths and Facts

• Myth: The pill causes weight gain.

  • Fact: Most people do not gain much weight from the pill. Any changes are usually small and temporary.

• Myth: The pill causes infertility.

  • Fact: Your ability to get pregnant usually comes back quickly after you stop taking the pill.

• Myth: You need to take a break from the pill.

  • Fact: There’s no need to take a break unless your doctor says so.

• Myth: The pill protects against STIs.

  • Fact: The pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use condoms for STI protection.

• Take it at the same time every day.

• Don’t skip doses.

• Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take, as some can make the pill less effective.

• If you throw up or have bad diarrhea soon after taking the pill, it might not work as well - follow instructions for missed pills.

• Store the pill in a cool, dry place.

Getting the Birth Control Pill in the US

• You may be able to get the pill for free or minimal cost from your doctor, sexual health clinics, or family planning clinics.

• Some states allow pharmacists to prescribe birth control pills.

• Online services: You can fill out a health questionnaire online and, if approved, get the pill delivered to your home.

Conclusion

The birth control pill is a safe, reliable, and easy way to prevent pregnancy and manage other health issues. Talk to your doctor to find out which pill is best for you and to get answers to any questions you have about using it.