The Pill 101

A lot of girls around the world are already “on the Pill” – or are considering taking it. Most girls take it not necessarily to prevent pregnancy but also to solve major menstrual problems. But it’s always smart to first learn more about the Pill before you decide to take it yourself.

The Pill, or oral contraception, is one of the simplest, safest and most effective methods of birth control. When used correctly – taken at the same time everyday - it's up to 99.7 percent effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy. Although, it is important to remember that the Pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). So you’ll still have to use condoms if you’re having sex.

The Pill is actually a combination of two female hormones: estrogen and progestin (the man-made version of progesterone). It works by preventing the monthly release of a woman’s eggs. The Pill also thickens a woman’s cervical mucus to keep the sperm from meeting the egg.

However, the medication in each pill lasts only about 24 hours, which is why it must be taken everyday to prevent pregnancy.

Aside from being an incredibly effective form of birth control, the Pill does a lot of surprisingly good things for your body:

• Clears up acne
• Curbs excess hair growth
• Makes for lighter, less crampy periods
• Reduces the danger of anemia from heavy bleeding
• Helps protect you from ovarian and endometrial cancer, even after 30 years of stopping the Pill

As with all drugs, there may be some undesirable side effects for some women taking the Pill.

·         Breast tenderness

·         Nausea – rarely, vomiting

·         Bleeding between periods

·         Weight gain or loss

·         Migraine

Serious problems do not occur very often. Pill users have a slightly greater chance of certain major disorders than nonusers. The most serious is the possibility of blood clots in the legs, lungs, heart, or brain. Also, no one should smoke when on the Pill or any other hormone-based form of birth control because it severely ups the chances of heart attack.

A clinician can tell you whether you can take the Pill and what dosage is right for you. He or she will adjust the prescription if you experience side effects after a few months of taking the Pill. Be sure to have checkups at least once a year. Your prescription may need to be changed as your health needs change. See your clinician right away if any problem develops.