There are many myths surrounding the use of the contraceptive pill that need to be debunked so you can understand exactly what the contraceptive pill is and isn't, and especially what it's for and what it's not. It's important that you're well-informed about the contraceptive pill in order to choose the right method of contraception. Also, before you start taking the pill, since it's a medication, you should consult your gynecologist for a check-up and to determine the best pill for you.
From the moment a question like, "Should I take the pill?" or "Will the birth control pill make me gain weight?" or "What happens if I take the pill and smoke?" crosses your mind, you might have many questions about birth control pills. That's why it's essential to be well-informed and open about what you should do regarding taking the birth control pill. Remember, it 's a very personal decision.
Just remember that birth control pills don't work the same for all women , so they might work great for your best friend but you might have to endure all the side effects listed in the leaflet and need to switch to different ones.
But today I want to answer some of those questions that might be on your mind right now … and if you still have any unanswered questions or simply want to ask a different one, don't hesitate to leave a comment!
How does the contraceptive pill work?
Birth control pills contain hormones that suppress ovulation. During ovulation, an egg is released from the ovaries, and without ovulation, there is no egg to be fertilized and no pregnancy to occur. The pills also thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to penetrate the uterus and reach an egg, should one be present. They also thin the uterine lining, reducing the likelihood of a fertilized egg implanting and developing.
What is the birth control pill exactly?
There are many different brands of birth control pills, but they will all fall into two categories:
- The combined pill It has two synthetic hormones, estrogen and progesterone, that control the reproductive system to stop pregnancy.
- The progesterone pill it just acts differently. The lining of the uterus thins, the cervical mucus thickens, and ovulation stops. It does exactly the same thing as the combined pill, but is more commonly used by older women, and can also be used while breastfeeding.
Why use the contraceptive pill?
There are many contraceptive methods available as alternatives to the pill, but most women who use the pill and are not bothered by the side effects prefer it because it is effective and reliable. Furthermore, periods become more regular, lighter, and painless, and sex can be had without a condom (if you have a stable partner; otherwise, condoms are recommended to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), since the pill does not protect against STIs).
How long can I take the contraceptive pill?
There's no medical reason why you have to stop taking the birth control pill after a certain time if it works well for you. This will depend on you and your doctor's advice, taking into account your lifestyle and whether you'd prefer to start trying for children.
Can I get pregnant on the pill?
The pill, when used correctly, is 99% effective. However, some women who may forget to take it and don't use protection (such as a condom) can become pregnant if they are ovulating . Additionally, if you have diarrhea, vomiting, or are taking antibiotics, it's advisable to use a condom during sex because the pill's effectiveness may decrease, and if it has been expelled from the body, it will have no effect.
What happens if I forget to take a pill?
It's safe to say you won't need to take a pill because the hormones in your previous birth control pills will be enough to keep you protected. If you miss a pill, take it as soon as you remember and then continue taking your pills as usual. However, if you prefer to take precautions during sex, it's a good idea to be cautious to avoid any surprises.
Do I have to take the pill at the same time every day?
You should take the contraceptive pill every day, and taking it at the same time is important because this will help you develop the habit and make it less likely that you will forget.
Does the birth control pill interact with other medications?
Some medications can interact with the pill and reduce its effectiveness. This may mean that you would have to use an additional method of contraception if you do not want to get pregnant, such as a condom.
When two or more medications are taken at the same time, the effects of one medication can be altered by the others; this is known as an interaction. Some medications can interact with certain forms of hormonal contraception, such as birth control pills.
Most contraceptive methods must be prescribed and the doctor will have to advise on whether the chosen method of contraception will be affected by taking other medications (and what they are).
Are yeast infections more common when you take the pill?
They are indeed more frequent because they alter the vaginal pH , although with current low-dose preparations, the frequency of infections has decreased. But you will need to take precautions to prevent those bothersome yeast infections.
After taking the pill, is it easier to get pregnant with twins or triplets?
This is just a myth . Multiple ovulations have never been observed after stopping the pill. Ironically, they are also accused of causing infertility, another myth.
What is the morning-after pill?
It's the pill that is taken only after unprotected sex . It's an emergency treatment. It should not be considered a regular contraceptive method, as it uses high doses of hormones. It must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.
Can taking the pill for a long time increase the frequency of breast cancer?
Controlled studies have not shown an increased frequency of breast cancer in women taking the pill, even in those with a family history.
What about cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is more closely associated with smoking and promiscuous sex, especially when barrier methods are not used. On the other hand, women who take the pill are checked more frequently than those who don't, allowing for the early diagnosis of precancerous lesions.
What about ovarian cancer?
Oral contraceptives exert a protective effect on the ovary that lasts for several years after treatment is discontinued.
Does the pill decrease sexual desire?
Ten percent of users experience a decrease in sexual desire, while 18% experience an increase. This is likely more of a psychological issue than anything else. If the problem persists, another contraceptive method should be used.
Does the pill make you fat?
It doesn't cause weight gain at the doses we currently use. If you experience increased hunger, simply adjust your diet accordingly.
Is there a risk of sterility when I leave them?
There is no decrease in fertility regardless of the duration of use. In some cases, menstruation may be absent for a few months , but this resolves spontaneously.
Besides avoiding pregnancy, how else does it benefit me?
It reduces the risk of ovarian cysts , breast cysts, prevents menstrual pain and anemia.
What to do if you forget a pill?
If you realize you missed your period within 12 hours, you should take it immediately and continue with the next one at its usual time. However, if more than 12 hours have passed, you should use additional contraception.
Can you breastfeed and take the pill?
You cannot take any medication while breastfeeding your baby. Consult your doctor to decide on a suitable method at this time.
Is the pill-tobacco combination dangerous?
Tobacco is always harmful to health , and when combined with the pill, its negative effects are amplified.
Is it normal to have blood loss between periods taken the pills?
Yes, it can be normal, especially during the first few months of taking them. It's important to make sure the bleeding isn't due to a missed pill or a drug interaction.
These are some frequently asked questions and answers about the birth control pill . It's very important to have all the facts clear before deciding whether or not to take it. But once you have all your questions answered and you're in good health, you can always freely decide whether or not to take it and consult your doctor.