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The "PILL"
This is the most popular method of birth control. It is a highly effective and reversible method of contraception. It must be taken every day, at the same time. It is a good choice for women who are comfortable following a daily routine.
What is it?
Prescription tables taken once a day, at a specific time contains two types of hormones Estrogen and Progestin. Available under a variety of brand names with various strengths and formulations, they come in packs of 21, 28 or 91 Pills. Sometimes the pill can be taken continuously (no hormone-free interval) in order to a void or delay periods, Prescribed by physicians although in some cases a nurse can initiate them.
How does it work?
Prevents the ovary from releasing an egg thicken the cervical mucus making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, changes the lining of the uterus making implantation difficult.
TYPICAL USE FAILURE: rate 80 per 1000 women per year.
Advantages:
- 1: Effective and reversible (not permanent)
- 2: Does not interfere with intercourse
- 3: Regulates menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual flow and cramps
- 4: Decreases acne and hirsutism
- 5: Reduces the risks of endometrial and ovarian cancers
- 6: May reduce perimenopausal symptoms
- 7: Decreases premenstrual symptoms
- 8: When used with mail condoms (dual protection) oral contraception uses will also have some protection against sexually transmitted infections (STLs) and increased contraceptive effectiveness
Disadvantages:
- 1: Must be taken every day, at the same time
- 2: May cause irregular bleeding or sporting
- 3: May cause breast tenderness, nausea or headaches
- 4: May increase the risk of blood clots, particularly in women who have certain blood disorders of a family history of blood clots
- 5: Effectiveness may be reduced by other medications
- 6: Should not be used by women who cannot take estrogen
- 7: Should not be used by women over the ages of 35 who smoke
- 8: May not be suitable for breastfeeding women
- 9: Does not protect against STLs
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