Introduction
Birth control pills are often referred to as oral contraceptives and have the highest rate of prevention compared to any other known means of preventing pregnancy. Available in many different formulations to be tailored for any one’s health need, the benefits of birth control pills can also include helping control the menstrual cycle, helping minimize acne, and managing any hormonal imbalances that are present. But, like every drug, birth control pills have side effects and points to consider. Here, we discuss the uses, types, benefits, side effects, and other important aspects of birth control pills.
1. What are birth control pills?
Birth control pills are oral medications given to women to prevent them from getting pregnant. It contains hormones that regulate their menstrual cycle and prevent them from ovulating—the egg release from the ovaries. Since fertilization will not take place without an egg release, pregnancy cannot happen. Birth control pills were first introduced in the 1960s but have evolved to become much safer and more effective for women today, with countless formulations available.
2. How Do Birth Control Pills Work?
The working of birth control pills mainly involves the release of artificial versions of estrogen and progesterone, or just progesterone in some cases. These hormones prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs, thicken cervical mucus, preventing sperm travel in case an egg is released during ovulation, and thin the uterine lining, reducing the chance of implantation. When taken correctly—usually once a day at the same time—birth control pills are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
3. Types of Birth Control Pills
There are two main types of birth control pills: combination pills and progestin-only pills.
Combination Pills
These pills contain both estrogen and progesterone. They come in several forms:
Monophasic: Each pill has the same hormone dose throughout the cycle.
Multiphasic: This is the dosage of hormone that is changed during the cycle, hence simulating the body’s natural changes in hormone.
Extended-cycle: The use of these pills minimizes menstruation to once every three months.
Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills)
These pills contain only progesterone and are excellent for women who cannot take estrogen, such as those who are breastfeeding or have certain health conditions. Mini pills are taken daily with no break in between. They have a slightly lesser efficacy rate compared to the combination pills if taken any other way other than exact prescription.
4. Functions of Birth Control Pills
The primary use of birth control pills is to be used as contraceptives, but they offer much more:
Regulated Menstrual Cycle: The pills regulate irregular menstrual cycles. This way, periods can be predicted.
Treatment of Acne: Some pills prevent acne, as hormones that cause excessive oil in the body are regulated by these pills.
Less Intense Menstrual Cramping: Many women experience lighter periods and reduced menstrual cramping on the pill.
PCOS/Endometriosis management: Birth control helps control the symptoms of PCOS/endometriosis, that is, hormonal imbalances and painful periods.
Hormonal Regulation: Birth control pills give relief in women with hormonal imbalances from symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes, and many more.
5. Advantages of Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills offer various health benefits aside from preventing pregnancy. Bone Health: Estrogen pills help to keep the bones healthy.
Premature ovarian and endometrial cancer. That is the risk associated with birth control pills with long-term usage.
Reduces Risk of Iron Deficiency: Medications that reduce menstrual blood often reduce the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.
6. Side Effects
Although generally safe for most users, birth control medications often have side effects—much of these tend to be at times when women switch. The following are common side effects.
Nausea: For many women, nausea develops shortly after they begin the medication.
Headaches: A slight headache can result as part of the hormone transition process for some patients.
Breast Tenderness: One might feel their breasts are tender because of estrogen; however, these effects wear off in some months.
Mood Swings: Some people face mood swings or anxiety more than normal.
Weight Gain: According to research, it doesn’t support that there is weight gain because of taking birth control; however, hormonal changes could lead to water retention or an increase in appetite.
Most side effects will fade away in a few months. If they persist or worsen, your healthcare provider may advise you to try another type of pill or method.
7. Serious Side Effects and Risks
Birth control pills may slightly increase the risk of severe health conditions in some women, though this is rare.
Blood Clots: Pills that contain estrogen can slightly increase the risk of blood clots, especially in smokers or those older than 35.
High Blood Pressure: Some women may develop an elevated blood pressure.
Increased Risk of Stroke and Heart Attack: This risk is higher among women who smoke, suffer from hypertension, or possess other risk factors for heart disease.
Talk to a healthcare provider about these risks if you have any existing medical conditions.
8. Who Should Not Take Birth Control Pills?
Some women should not take birth control pills, especially those suffering from the following conditions:
Medical conditions, such as history of blood clots or clotting disorders
Cancer of the breast or an estrogen-sensitive cancer
Known high uncontrolled blood pressure
History of stroke or heart disease
Chronic migraine with aura
See your doctor to design an appropriate birth control prescription or other methods of contraception compatible with a given state of health or medical background of an individual.
Issues involving use of the pills
The efficacy of having the birth control pills work effectively will only persist once the drug is properly employed. Let’s mention the following:
Consistency: Pills have to be used at one and the same time for maximum effect daily.
Drug Interactions: Anticonvulsants, antibiotics, amongst others, may interfere with birth control effectiveness.
Check-Ups: Annual checkups with a healthcare provider are to be expected to monitor health.
9. Conclusion:
Pills are the safest form of birth control that can be used effectively and conveniently by women. With different formulations available, women can easily find one to suit their needs and lifestyles. Though there are the risks of side effects, the majority are mild and can be tolerated as the body gets used to them. Though rare, severe risk factors should not be ruled out, especially in the case of those who may have pre-existing conditions. A healthcare provider needs to consult with a patient as to the best solution regarding using contraceptives best suited for that particular person based on their health profile and needs.
