Contraception: The pill

• Are also known as birth control pills (BCPs) or
• Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs)

How it works

• They contain the two female hormones: oestrogen and progesterone
• They prevent the release of ova/female sex cells
• They cause growth of an unstable thin uterus lining
• Thicken cervical mucus and disturb the movement of sperm into the uterus

Effectiviness

• 99.6-99.8%

Advantages

• It’s effective
• Easy to use
• Reversible
• Does not interfere with sexual activity
• Menstrual bleeding is lighter, shorter, regular and there are fewer cramps

Disadvantages

• Must be taken daily
• Requires a doctor’s prescription
• Suppresses production of breast milk
• There is a possibility of blood clots forming and
• A slight increase in risk of heart attack and strokes for those above 35 years old
• There can be unpleasant side effects

Side effects

• Slight weight change
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Spotting in mid cycle (drops of blood appear)
• Mood changes
• Loss of sexual desire

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