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The Pill (Oral Contraceptives)


What Is It?

Pills containing the hormones estrogen and progestin


How Does It Work?

  • Thickens cervical mucus
  • Prevents ovulation (release of egg)
  • Prevents implantation of fertilized egg

How Is It Used?

One pill taken at the same time each day


Effectiveness:

92% - 99.7%
Failure rate increased with some medications, missed pills, taking pills late


Benefits:

  • Reversible
  • Does not interfere with sex
  • Medically safe for most women
  • Regulates periods, lighter periods
  • Decreases menstrual pain and PMS
  • May improve acne
  • Decreases risk for ovarian and endometrial cancer

Possible Concerns:

  • Nausea, weight gain, headaches, dizziness, breast tenderness
  • Break-through bleeding or spotting between periods
  • Mood swings
  • May increase risk of stroke, heart attack, blood clots and high blood pressure (especially for women over 35 who smoke)
  • New pill clients must also use additional form of birth control for first month

DOES NOT REDUCE THE RISK OF HIV/AIDS OR STDs







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