Birth control pill use

Birth control pill use

Birth control pills are a common type of contraception. There are many different types of pills but they all contain hormones that change the normal monthly female reproductive cycle by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation). The most common type are combination pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone. There are three types of regimens. The first and most common contain the combination hormone medicine for 21 days and then either take a "dummy" pill for 7 days or no pill for 7 days. This regimen enables a women to have a menstrual cycle every month. A second type involves taking the combination hormone pill for 12 weeks and then stopping for 7 days. This reduces the number of periods to every 12 weeks. A third form is called the "mini pill" and contains only low dose progesterone. This regimen may be less effective than the combination pill. Some of the side effects of birth control pills include irregular menstrual bleeding, mood changes and blood clots.

Symptoms:
Irregular menstrual bleeding, nausea, blood clots (more common in women older than 35 and who smoke), mood changes, breast tenderness, dizziness.

Treatment:
There are multiple different types as described in the description section. The healthcare provider and patient will select the best option for each patient.


A history and physical will be done to determine the appropriateness of birth control pill use and the best type to take.