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Combined oral contraceptives are birth control pills which contain two hormones, an estrogen and a progestin. They prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (release of an egg) and by making the lining of the uterus thinner. Among typical couples who initiate use of combined pills about 8% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. This is because sometimes pills are not used correctly. If pills are used consistently and correctly, less than 1% of women will become pregnant. A second form of contraception (backup method) should be used for the first 7 days of your first pack of pills. Complete information about this contraceptive is available from your clinician or the package insert accompanying the specific pill brand you are taking.
- Pills decrease a woman's risk for cancer of the ovary and cancer of
the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer). Pills also lower the risk
of developing benign breast masses (breast masses which are NOT cancer)
and ovarian cysts.
- They decrease menstrual cramping and pain.
- Combined pills reduce menstrual blood loss and the risk for anemia.
- Acne often improves in women taking combined birth control pills.
- Many women enjoy sex more when taking birth control pills because they
know they are less likely to get pregnant.
- A pelvic exam and pap smear are not required to start birth control pills!
- Pills can be used continuously (by skipping the inactive pills at the end of your pack) to skip menstrual periods for 2, 3, or even 6 months at a time safely.
- Pills do not protect you from HIV or other infections. Use a condom if you may be at risk.
- You have to remember to take one pill every day.
- Nausea and/or spotting are two problems women may have the first month on pills.
- Pills tend to make periods short and scanty. You may see no blood at all. Most women do not mind this when they understand it is common.
- Some women taking combined pills may experience side effects such as headaches, mood changes or decreased enjoyment of sex.
- You must use a backup contraceptive for 7 days if you have missed pills and are uncertain the number that you have missed.
- Serious complications such as blood clots may occur but are very rare.
- Pills require a prescription and can be expensive.
- Pills may promote growth of breast cancer but probably do not cause breast cancer. They may lead to higher
rates of one type of cervical cancer (adenocarcinoma of the cervix).
In the United States combined pills require a prescription. You can
get pills from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department,
or family planning clinic.
For 72 hours AFTER unprotected sex, you can take emergency
contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant. For up to 7 days AFTER
unprotected sex, you can have an IUD
put in. Not all clinicians know about emergency contraception. If you want
more information or would like the phone numbers of clinicians near you
who prescribe emergency contraception, CALL the toll-free hotline 1-888-NOT-2-LATE
or 1-800-584-9911. Some of these sources of help are free.
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medication methods
foam
the pill
mini pill
the patch
the ring
depo provera shot
spermicides
emergency pills
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