Since their inception in the first half of the 20th century, oral contraceptives have given women both reproductive choices and sexual freedom. However, when choosing an oral contraceptive, there are many things to keep in mind: multiple brands are available, each offering different benefits. Some pills can prevent your period from occurring every month or alleviate cramping. Not all oral contraceptives may be perfect for you, so it's good to know your options.
How to Choose Oral Contraceptives
Step 1
Discuss your needs. There are a lot of things to consider when choosing birth control. Do you want to take a daily pill? When using an daily oral contraceptive, the pill needs to be taken every day around the same time to be the most effective. In addition, the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals point out the number of benefits of using oral contraceptives: the pill protects against ovarian and uterine cancers, infections of the fallopian tubes and ovaries; and users have lighter periods and less cramping. Also, using an oral contraceptive can clear up acne.
Step 2
Decide when you want your period. Women can choose to take pills that contain a week of placebo pills or a pack without placebo pills. If you do not take any placebo pills, you will not have your period. Some brands may contain less than a week of placebo pills; others only have placebo pills for periods every few months. The FDA has approved the safety of not having a monthly period by using a birth control pill.
Step 3
Determine if you have any restrictions. Some women cannot use combination pills, which contain both estrogen and progesterone; others experience negative side effects from pills containing any estrogen at all. According to the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, women who are over the age 35 and smoke, or women who have high blood pressure should consider progesterone only pills.
Step 4
Choose the brand or generic version. Most brand name oral contraceptives have a generic brand equivalent that costs less. Depending on your health insurance, copay for a generic brand can range from $10 to $15; copay for a brand name can cost much more. Tell your doctor which you would prefer.
Tips and Warnings
- Oral contraceptives require a monthly prescription. Make sure to fill your prescription before you run out. If you forget to take one of your birth control pills, take it as soon as you remember. Use a backup method of birth control to prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor
- Insurance
