THE BIRTH CONTROL PILL
A small tablet that demands a strict routine.
TAKE IT A DAY AT A TIME
The pill is a birth control tablet containing hormones that you take once a day. There are different kinds of pill: the combined pill and the ‘mini' pill. The combined pill contains estrogen and a progestin, which prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. They also thicken the cervical mucus, which keeps sperm from reaching the egg. The mini pill contains just one hormone, a progestin, which is an alternative for those negatively affected by estrogen.
You should take the pill at the same time each day, whether or not you have sex. Ask your doctor or nurse whether the combined pill is a suitable method of birth control for you based on your medical history, and if it is, which is the best type for you. If you are already using the pill and have missed it once, or more, use our interactive tool [hyperlink to the missed pill tool] to find out what you can do next.
HOW IT MEASURES UP
HORMONES
Yes. The hormones in the pill – either estrogen or a progestin, or only a progestin – are released throughout the entire body.
EASE OF USE
The pill must be taken at the same time every day, even if you don’t plan to have sex that day.
YOUR PERIOD
The pill makes periods more regular, and may reduce heavy and painful bleeding.
I missed a pill. What should I do?
A missed birth control pill happens to the best of us. Read our guide, for information that may help you decide what to do next, and always speak to your doctor or nurse.
Will the effectiveness of the pill be affected by other medications?
Some medicines, such as antibiotics, may impact the effectiveness of the pill. It's always best to ask your doctor or nurse about possible interactions or interference.
I am taking the pill but I have a missed period. Am I pregnant? Why is my period late?
There could be many reasons for a missing period – read more about the possible causes. If you don't get your period for more than two months in a row and are concerned you are pregnant, talk to your doctor or nurse immediately.
I bled between my periods. Is that normal whilst I am on the pill?
Some people experience bleeding between periods during the first few months of pill intake,2 and it usually disappears in the following menstrual cycles. There's usually nothing to worry about, but if this happens on a regular basis and you are worried, consult your doctor or nurse immediately.
Will my pill still work if I vomit or have diarrhea?
Vomiting or experiencing severe diarrhea within the first two or three hours after taking the pill means it probably did not get the chance to absorb. In this case, an additional pill should be taken as soon as possible.3 This is not necessary if you are taking an 'inactive' pill.
When did the birth control pill come out?
The birth control pill was first approved for public use in 1960 in the United States.4
What does oral birth control mean?
Oral birth control simply means that this form of birth control is a pill that is taken by mouth.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Start preparing for the next appointment with your doctor or nurse today!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
1...
Pill taken at the same time every day.
21 days or more5
Pill intake regimens depending on if they are standard or customized.5
16%...6
Worldwide use the pill as birth control.6
PROS
- Fairly effective in preventing pregnancy with typical use.
- Self-administered – you take it yourself.
- Allows spontaneous sex and does not interrupt it.
CONS
- No protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).8
- Every day at the same time – you should follow a strict schedule, otherwise it may not work as well.8
- Irregular periods can happen – depending on the pill.8
Is It Okay?
CONSIDER THIS
It’s important to remember the pill does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections that can be shared during unprotected sex. As a form of birth control, the pill depends on perfect use to achieve 99% efficacy. Using a condom in addition to the pill will protect you from STIs and unplanned pregnancy.
