The types of contraception available have grown in number over the last 50 years, providing women with an array of viable options for preventing pregnancy. With so many choices, knowing which method is best for you can be confusing. Where do you begin? By understanding the contraception effectiveness, benefits and risks of each method , and weighing the importance of factors, like convenience, spontaneity and comfort, you can choose the method that is best for you.

Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives, commonly referred to as birth control pills or simply The Pill, work by preventing ovulation (the cyclical release of an egg from the ovaries for fertilization). Two kinds of oral contraceptives are commonly prescribed: those that use the hormone combination of estrogen and progesterone and those that use progesterone only. The latter is often called the Mini Pill. When taken correctly, both pills have a 98 to 99% effectiveness rate. Neither pill however, protects against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Women have reported side effects from The Pill ranging from nausea, weight gain and, for nursing mothers, a reduction in breast milk production. Risks include increased blood pressure, potential for blood clots and greater chance of stroke. Women who take The Pill should not smoke, especially if they’re over the age of 35. Smoking while taking The Pill increases your chances of developing blood clots and/or having a stroke. On the upside, birth control pills can regulate an irregular menstrual cycle, improve acne, reduce cramping and lessen PMS symptoms.

The Mini Pill is generally considered safer than combination pills for women over the age of 35 and/or women who are already at risk for blood clots. If you’re taking the Mini Pill, you’re still encouraged not to smoke, especially after the age of 35. You may also experience shorter, lighter periods. Side effects include light bleeding or spotting between periods.

• Previous Page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• Next Page