#HealthBytes: All you need to know about Birth Control Pills
The Birth Control Pill (also simply called The Pill) is a medicine that contains hormones, which can help prevent pregnancy by obstructing the process of fertilization. However, their subdued popularity as compared to the (male) condom, coupled with poor sex education has given way to many unanswered queries and confusions around this method of Birth control. Here's all you need to know about it.
How effective is the pill?
The Birth Control Pill is one of the most reliable methods of contraception. When taken as directed, it has an impressive effectiveness rate of 95-99%.
Are there different kinds of Birth Control Pills?
Yes, there are many different kinds of contraceptive pills. Different pills contain different doses of hormones as per the requirements of the person. It is up to your health care provider to decide which is the best pick for you. You are needed to follow the instructions as carefully as possible, so as to maintain the effectiveness of the pill.
What does the pill contain?
Hormones used in the pill are actually a synthetic form of the natural hormones progestin and estrogen. While some pills only contain progestin (progestin-only pills), others contain a combination of progestin and estrogen (the combined pill). These pills help prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening the mucus in the cervix, making it difficult for the sperm to travel through.
How long can you be on the pill?
Notably, there is no such time-bound course to take the pill. You can take it as long as there are no concerning medical complications. Many women are on the pill for years, without having to experience any health issues.
Will it prevent STIs? Will your periods be affected?
STIs: No, Birth control pills do not provide any protection from Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In fact, the only 100% effective way to stay safe from STIs is abstinence (not having any sex). However, condoms can effectively prevent most STIs. Periods: Yes, the pill will affect your periods, but mostly positively. It is known to make your periods more regular, shorter, and less painful.
Should you use other forms of contraception with the pill?
Short answer: Yes! As mentioned above, these pills don't provide any protection from Sexually transmitted infections. Thus, it is important to use a condom every time you indulge in sexual activity to stay safe from these infections. Using a condom will also improve the effectiveness of the pill or will come handy if you forget to take the pill sometime.
Does taking the pill make it difficult to get pregnant?
No, taking birth control pills doesn't affect your fertility in any way. However, if your periods were irregular before you started taking the pill, chances are that your periods will be irregular again when you stop taking it.
