Birth control pills are the true saviour when it comes to averting unwanted pregnancies. Most women rely on birth control pills as they are almost 99.9% effective when taken correctly. And taking a birth control pill is very easy – just pop a tiny pill into your mouth and swallow.
There are different types of birth control pills, such as combination pills and progestin-only pills. The type of pill one has doesn’t change when you should start, but it does impact when you will be protected from pregnancy.
Types Of Pills
Combination Pills: These pills comprise both estrogen and progestin hormones. They function by averting ovulation and making the cervical mucus thicker, which impedes the movement of sperm. These pills are typically taken for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break, during which one may feel a withdrawal bleed quite similar to a period. Additionally, continuous-use combination pills are also available that are taken regularly for 84 days, followed by a 7-day break.
Progestin-only pills: It is also known as mini-pills and contain only progestin hormone. They act mainly by thickening the cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the uterus, making it less responsive to implantation. Progestin-only pills should be taken daily without any breaks.
Here’s An Easy Guide On How To Take Oral Contraceptive Pills:
Consult Doctor: Before starting any birth control process, it’s important to seek advice from your gynecologist. They offer personalized advice and prescribe the right oral contraceptive pill for you.
Get A Valid Prescription: Obtain a prescription from your gynecologist and purchase the pill either online or from the pharmacy. Read and understand the specific instructions for the prescribed pill and clear any doubts you have with your doctor.
Read Instructions: The oral contraceptive pill package will contain a package instruction with all important information about the pill. Read it thoroughly to know how to take the pills, the side effects and what to do if you miss a dose.
Start On The Right Day: Generally, combination pills are available in packs of 21 or 28, start taking the pills on the first day of your period cycle. However, if you have a 28-pill pack, then start on any day.
Maintain Timings: It’s essential to take a pill at the same time daily to improve its efficacy. Select a time that is suitable for you and set a reminder if needed. You can have a pill with or without food, depending on the specific instructions given.
Also Read: Side Effects Of Birth Control Pills
Take the pill: Swallow one pill from the pack with water. Never chew or crush the pill, as it is formulated to release medication slowly.
Maintain the Pill Schedule: If you have a 21-pill pack, then take one pill daily for 21 days continuously. On the other hand, if you have a 28-pill pack, take one pill daily for 28 days; however, the last seven pills are inactive pills that assist in keeping your daily pill-taking schedule.
Start Next Pack Immediately: After completing the pack, start a new pack immediately without any break to guarantee continuous contraceptive protection. If you have a 21-pill pack, start a new pack on the eighth day (after the last pill). With the 28-pill pack, start a new pack the day after you complete the previous pack.
Stay Reliable: To achieve maximum effectiveness of oral contraceptive pills, it’s very important to take pills consistently without any missed doses. If you happen to miss a pill, check the package instructions on what to do. Moreover, you may need other contraceptive measures like condoms if you miss a pill.
Regular Follow-up: Get regular check-ups with your gynecologist while taking oral contraceptive pills. Your healthcare provider would evaluate your health status, address any issues, and ensure that the pills you have taken are working well for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Birth Control Pills?
Birth control pills are oral contraceptives containing hormones that help prevent pregnancy when taken correctly.
How Do I Take Them?
Take one pill at the same time every day, following the instructions on your pack. The schedule varies between pill types.
When Should I Start?
You can usually start on the first day of your period or as advised by your healthcare provider. Depending on the pill, you may need backup contraception initially.
How Effective Are They?
When taken correctly, birth control pills are highly effective. Their effectiveness decreases if pills are missed or taken incorrectly.
What Should I Do If I Miss A Pill?
Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and continue the next pill at the usual time. Instructions can vary depending on the type of pill and how many were missed, so check the pack leaflet or consult a healthcare professional.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
Oral Contraceptive Pills
Danielle B. Cooper; Preeti Patel.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361371378_Oral_Contraceptive_Pills_use_and_adverse_effects
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