Complete guide to birth control pills: effectiveness and details

Birth control pills are one of the most widely used methods by women around the world to prevent unwanted pregnancies. This article offers a complete guide on what they are, how they work, their benefits, side effects and much more, incorporating detailed and up-to-date information.

What are birth control pills?

Birth control pills are oral medications that contain synthetic hormones, and their main function is to prevent pregnancy. These hormones, which usually include estrogen y progestins, alter the natural functioning of the female reproductive system. There are different types of pills depending on their hormonal composition, which allows you to choose the most suitable one according to your needs. needs specific to each woman.

Amongst the main mechanisms The effects of birth control pills include:

• Inhibit ovulation, thus preventing the ovary release eggs that can be fertilized.
• Thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for the mucus to pass through. sperm towards the uterus.
• Altering the lining of the uterus, making it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

Types of birth control pills

There are different types of birth control pills that are classified mainly according to the combination of hormones they contain:

Combination pills

They contain a combination of estrogen y progestinThese pills are the most common and come in two main formats:

• From 28 days: They contain 21 active hormone tablets and 7 inactive or placebo tablets. The period usually occurs during the week of the inactive tablets.
• From 21 days: They include 21 active hormone tablets, followed by a week of rest without taking any pills.

Mini pills

They are composed only of progestin and are ideal for women who cannot take estrogen due to health problems. These tablets must be taken at the same time every day to ensure their effectiveness.

How to start taking birth control pills

Taking birth control pills should be an informed decision. Before starting them, it is advisable to consult with a doctor or gynecologist who can assess the needs and characteristics of each woman, as well as ruling out possible contraindications.

Initial Recommendations

• Medical appointment: The specialist will determine which type of pill is most suitable.
• Start of taking: Typically, they should be started on the first day of your menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after your period.
• Comply with the daily dose: It is essential to always take the pills at the same time to maintain their effectiveness.

Side effects of birth control pills

Like any medication, birth control pills can have Side effectsSome of them are usually normal during the first few months of use, while others may require medical attention.

Common side effects include:

• Mild nausea: They usually disappear over time.
• Intermenstrual spotting: It can occur during the first few months.
• Weight gain: It is usually due to fluid retention.
• Breast tenderness: Many women experience pain or swelling.
• Humor changes: Some women report symptoms similar to depression.

Effectiveness percentage and what to do in case of forgetfulness

The effectiveness of birth control pills is very high if taken correctly, reaching up to 99.9% of effectiveness under ideal conditions. However, this percentage may be reduced in case of forgetfulness or interactions with certain medications.

What to do if you forget a pill?

• If you forget a pill: Take it as soon as you remember and continue with your normal schedule. No additional measures are necessary.
• If you forget two or more pills: You should take the last missed pill and discard the previous ones. In addition, it is essential to use a backup contraceptive method such as a condom for the next 7 days.

Additional benefits of birth control pills

In addition to preventing pregnancy, birth control pills have other benefits. expected benefits to health:

• Regulation of the menstrual cycle: They help make periods more regular and less painful.
• Acne reduction: Some brands may be helpful in treating skin problems, such as acne.
• Decreased risk of certain cancers: They reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.

Things to consider before use

It is important to keep in mind some key points before deciding on this contraceptive method:

• Medical appointment: It should always be your doctor who evaluates whether this method is suitable for you.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Such as cardiovascular disease, severe migraines, or a history of blood clots.
• Drug Interactions: Some drugs such as antibiotics or anticonvulsants may reduce its effectiveness.

Birth control pills are not only one of the most reliable methods of preventing pregnancy, but they also offer a variety of health benefits. They should be used responsibly and under medical supervision to ensure they are suitable for your specific situation.