What are they?

Birth control pills are a daily birth control method which contain the hormones estrogen and progesterone.  One pill is taken every day at approximately the same time.  You need to go to a doctor or clinic to get birth control pills.

How do they work?

Birth control pills prevent pregnancy by:

• preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg;
• making the cervical mucous thick so the sperm can't swim inside; and
• making the lining of the uterus thin so the egg can't stick.

Advantages:

• about 99% effective if you take one pill every day at the same time;
• easy to use;
• few side effects;
• menstrual periods are more regular, lighter, shorter, and less painful;
• less premenstrual syndrome (bloating, moodiness); and
• the risk of cancer of the uterus and ovaries is reduced.

Disadvantages:

• you need to go to a doctor or clinic to get pills;
• pills cost up to $25.00 per month at a pharmacy;
• people can find your pill package and know you're on the pill;
• if you and your partner stop using condoms, you may increase your risk of sexually transmitted infections;
• you have to remember to take a pill every day at the same time;
• you may have minor side effects like spotting or nausea.  Serious side effects like blood clots are rare; and
• certain medications decrease the effectiveness of the pill.  Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking.  Using condoms will provide extra protection.

There are many myths about the pill.  The truth is:

• the pill does not cause weight gain, but your appetite may increase at first;
• the pill does not decrease your chances to have children in the future; and
• the pill does not cause cancer.  It actually reduces your chance of getting ovarian and uterine cancers.

Remember:

• the pill does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections.  Use condoms every time; and
• if you smoke - quit.  Smoking while on the pill increases the risk of serious effects on the heart and blood vessels.