If you're considering using oral contraceptives as a method of birth control, you'll want to investigate the many types available and the side effects (and benefits) often associated with each. Oral contraceptives are tablets obtained through a prescription from your doctor designated to prevent pregnancy. They are very effective if used properly, but do not protect against the transmission of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).
Oral contraceptives are hormonal prescription medications that consist of estrogen and progestin or progestin alone. These hormones prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the release of particular hormones, inhibiting ovulation and/or creating a hostile environment in the uterus, discouraging pregnancy and implantation of the egg in the uterine lining.
There are several types of oral contraceptives available on the market. Monophasic oral contraceptives will deliver constant levels of both progestin and estrogen each day. Biphasic oral contraceptives deliver a low level of estrogen and progestin for the first 21 days of your cycle, but will deliver a higher level of both hormones for the remainder of your cycle to encourage menstruation. Triphasic oral contraceptives deliver varying progestin levels throughout your cycle. None of these pills works better or less effectively than another. All prevent pregnancy quite effectively.
One of the drawbacks of oral contraceptives is the fact that you must take your daily pill every day at approximately the same time for the pill to work. If you skip a pill, you must take it as soon as you remember, and if you skip two pills or more, you will need to use back up protection until you start the next cycle of pills.
Many of the pills have added advantages or unwanted side effects. While both advantages and side effects vary significantly from woman to woman, you will want to check out the track records of the oral contraceptives available before choosing one. For example, if you want an oral contraceptive known to help reduce acne, you'll want to ask your doctor for a pill with a higher estrogen level and a lower androgen potency. If you struggle with depression or moodiness, ask for a birth control pill with a low progestin potency. If you are concerned about gaining weight, ask for a pill with a lower estrogen and progestin level. To reduce menstrual cramping, request a form of the pill that is higher in progestin.
You'll also want to read about the potential side effects of the pill. Some of the birth control pills on the market today are notorious for causing headaches, nausea, breakthrough bleeding, blood clots and weight gain. Be sure to ask your doctor about any possible side effects before you start a new prescription.
Once you start your oral contraceptive prescription, keep close records of your body's changes. If any side effects are too severe or debilitating, talk to your doctor about trying another type of birth control pill. Most women do not experience extreme side effects, but some do. Listen to your body and try out your other options if one type of pill causes any unwanted side effects.
 | The types of contraception available for women today are many and varied. Some methods help protect against STDs while others are designed for women in monogamous relationships who value convenience. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the methods available so you can choose the best one for you. |
 | If you're sexually active, you'll want to know the truth about these common contraceptive myths. |
Because so many contraceptives work by injecting hormones into your body (usually estrogen and/or progestin), these contraceptives have side effects that mimic pregnancy or PMS. |
The contraceptive sponge is a simple form of birth control that works much like a diaphragm without a prescription. |
If you want a form of birth control you won't have to think about, that does not put unwanted hormones into your body and is highly effective, you may want to consider using the IUD or Intrauterine contraceptive device. |
