Birth Control Pill

Contraception

The birth control pill is a small pill taken at the same time every day to prevent pregnancy. The pill has two kinds of hormones that prevent ovulation.

There are many brands of birth control pills with varying amounts of hormones. Only about 9 in 100 women become pregnant while taking the pill each year.

Pros of the Pill

It does not interrupt sex
It can help a woman know when she will have her periods
It may lessen cramping or heavy bleeding
It may lessen acne and prevent breast cysts

Cons of the Pill

You MUST take the pill at the same time each day
Some women may have problems with side effects

When do I start my birth control pills?

You can start taking your pills on the first day of your next period or the first Sunday after your next period begins (even if that day is Sunday).

What if I miss pills?

If you miss 1 pill: take it as soon as you remember and continue taking your pills at your regularly scheduled time.

If you miss 2 pills: Take 2 pills at your regularly scheduled time and the following day take two pills. Never take more than 2 pills in a single day. Use condoms for 7 days to prevent pregnancy.

Possible Side Effects

You may or may not experience the following side effects

Spotting and bleeding between periods
Nausea

Mood changes
Changes in sex drive

Warning signs to report to your provider immediately

Sudden headaches not relieved by Tylenol
Eye problems (blurry vision)

Sharp, sudden pain in the leg, chest or abdomen

Women who are not a candidate for the Pill

If you have migraines with aura
If you are over 35 and smoke
If you have had blood clots, heart disease, or a stroke

If you have uncontrolled blood pressure or diabetes
If you have breast cancer or liver disease

The birth control pill does NOT protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms to protect yourself from these infections.