Oral Contraceptive Pill (a.k.a. the Pill)

What is it?

The oral contraceptive pill (OC) is one of the most researched (and often most misunderstood) drugs in the world. It is also one of the world's most prescribed medications - about 100 million women across the globe rely on it. The Pill is a contraceptive suitable for most healthy women, regardless of age, and can be used long-term. Some women only want to take the Pill when they are in a stable relationship and stop taking it when the relationship ends. However, doing so can put people at risk of unintended pregnancy while adjusting back to a new contraceptive method. With proper use, the Pill is 99.9% effective, making it the most reliable contraception available. However, there is a 3% user failure rate.

Benefits are numerous

In addition to being the most effective form of contraception, the Pill regulates the menstrual cycle, reduces menstrual flow, reduces acne, protects against certain cancers, and is completely reversible (once a woman is off the Pill, the body resumes its normal cycle).

Disadvantages

The Pill doesn't protect against STIs, and it may cause side-effects such as irregular bleeding, breast tenderness, weight gain, headaches and nausea. These side-effects generally disappear after a few months. In rare cases where these side-effects don't go away, you should see your doctor.

How it works

Just take the Pill on a daily basis, and try to take it at the same time each day so that it becomes a habit. Some women find it helpful to set an alarm clock, pager or beeper as a reminder.

Myths

A common myth is that women who stop taking the Pill may not be able to get pregnant. Rest assured that taking the Pill will not cause you to be infertile. Most women who use a method of contraception, including the Pill, can later get pregnant if they wish. Another common myth is that the Pill causes cancer. Again, false.in fact, the Pill actually reduces the risk of getting certain cancers such as endometrial and ovarian. Note: The Pill should be used with condoms to prevent both pregnancy and STIs.

Where to find it

You can get a prescription by visiting your doctor or a clinic. The cost of the Pill varies from place to place; various health plans cover the cost. The Pill can be obtained at most public health clinics and Planned Parenthood Affiliates for free or at low cost.

Troubleshooting

If you miss one pill, you should take it as soon as you remember (this may mean taking two pills in one day). If you miss two pills in a row during week 1 or 2 of the pack, take two pills on the day you remember and two pills the next day. Remember to use a back-up method of birth control such as a condom if this happens. If you miss two pills in a row during week 3 of the pack, throw out the remainder of the pack and start a new pack on the day you remember. Use a back-up method of birth control. You may not have a period this month or your period may come early. If you ever miss 3 pills in a row, throw out the pack and start a new one the day you remember. Use a back-up method of birth control. You may not get your period this month or it may come early.

03/09/2010 06:17 PM

'No proof' IVF aided by acupuncture

There is no evidence acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine boost the chance of IVF success, fertility experts warn.

03/09/2010 06:04 PM

'Problem kids' risk future pain

Children with behavioural problems are twice as likely to suffer chronic pain as adults than others, say researchers.

03/09/2010 05:36 AM

US school soda deal 'cuts sugar'

The US soft drinks industry says it has dramatically cut full-calorie beverages available in schools as part of a drive to tackle obesity.

03/07/2010 06:59 PM

Action urged on pregnancy deaths

Pregnant women in developing countries face the same risk of death as women in the UK did 100 years ago, say campaigners.

03/08/2010 02:37 PM

Obama continues healthcare attack

US President Barack Obama attacks insurers for raising rates as he continues his push for healthcare reform.

03/09/2010 10:21 AM

UK gives SA millions of condoms

The UK donates £1m ($1.5m) to South Africa to buy 42m condoms, as the nation builds up to the football World Cup.

03/06/2010 08:27 AM

Surgery on Mubarak 'successful'

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak undergoes successful surgery at a German clinic for an inflamed gall bladder, state media say.

03/07/2010 06:19 PM

Premature brain 'wash out' hope

A technique that "washes out" the brains of severely ill premature babies may aid survival, a study suggests.

03/06/2010 04:48 AM

Africa in bid to wipe out polio

A campaign is launched to eradicate polio in west and central Africa, targeting 85 million children.

03/08/2010 06:06 PM

'London bomb stress' recognised

Psychologists say they have treated hundreds of survivors of the 2005 London bombings for post-traumatic stress disorder.