Birth Control Pills

Overview
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 80 percent of women in the United States have taken birth control pills at one time in their lives. It is the most frequently used method of birth control. The hormones in the pill work by preventing ovulation. If a woman doesn't ovulate, she can't get pregnant.

Before Using Birth Control Pills
There are many pros to taking birth control pills. They are highly effective in preventing pregnancy when taken at the same time each day. In addition, they often reduce menstrual cramps and cause lighter periods. Birth control pills may also protect against uterine and ovarian cancer, ovarian cysts and acne.

However, birth control pills do not prevent the transmission of STDs. Condoms must be used along with birth control pills to offer this kind of protection.

Birth control pills are 90-95 percent effective when pills are missed or taken at a different time each day. When the pills are taken at the same time every day, they are 99 percent effective, according to the FDA. For tips on remembering to take your birth control pills, click here.

Weight gain, nausea, and irregular vaginal bleeding, or 'spotting,' may result. If you develop spotting, the problem can often be solved by a different pill or dose. For other side effects, click here.

The effectiveness of the pill is lowered when taken with several medications, including most antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, tuberculosis medication including INH, and migraine medications. St. John's Wort also interferes with the effectiveness of the pill. You can get pregnant if you are taking any of these drugs so you must use a back up method of birth control during the course of your treatment.

Ask Your Physician
If you are having sex or plan to have sex, talk to a gynecologist about birth control pills. You may also talk to your physician about birth control pills if you have moderate to severe acne. If you are currently taking the pill, tell your health care provider or pharmacist before taking any antibiotics or herbal supplements.

Find out more about birth control pills and how to choose the right pill for you.