Birth Control Pill
- What is it?
- Are there different types?
- How does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- How can I find out more?
The birth control pill is a pill, also known as oral contraception, that you take once a day, at the same time every day that releases artificial hormones.
Yes. The Scotland County Health Department currently provides the following types of birth control pills:
- Aviane
- Cryselle
- Necon 1/50
- Notrel 1/35
- Ortho-Micronor
- Ortho Tri-Cyclen
- Seasonale Generic
A birth control pill works by releasing artificial hormones that stop the ovaries from releasing eggs. In addition, the hormones in the pill thicken the mucus in the cervix (the opening of the womb), making it hard for sperm to enter the womb. You can get birth control pills through a prescription provided by a health care provider.
If the pill is taken perfectly, it is 99% effective. With typical use, it is 91% effective.
Strengths of the Birth Control Pill:
- Few serious problems for young women.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Does not interfere with sex.
- Less cramping and bleeding during your period.
- Less chance of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) with the pill.
- Less chance of ovarian or endometrial cancer with the pill.
- Some pills can reduce the number of periods you have in a year, or eliminate all periods.
Weaknesses of the Birth Control Pill:
- Very small chance of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.
- May cause high blood pressure.
- May cause weight changes, spotting, and moodiness.
- Not ideal to be used while breastfeeding.
- May not be a good method for women over the age of 35 who also smoke.
- Does not provide protection from HIV/STDs.
To find out more about the birth control pill, please call the Scotland County Health Department at (910) 277-2440 to talk with a healthcare professional and to make an appointment.