Preventing Unwanted Pregnancies

Are you taking the pill? In this day and age, more and more young women are choosing to take oral contraception as a way of preventing unwanted pregnancies.

While it’s an easy form of birth control to use and generally effective, there may be some unexpected side effects involved with taking the pill that you should be aware of before deciding on this form of contraceptive.

How does it work

The pill is a type of contraception that is taken orally to prevent pregnancy. It works by preventing the ovaries from releasing eggs and changing the way the body reacts to hormones, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg. The pill can also help reduce cramps during a woman's menstrual cycle and help clear up acne.

For maximum effectiveness, it should be taken daily at about the same time each day. Taking other medications or forgetting to take it could decrease its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. And while no method of birth control is 100% effective, when used correctly, the pill has been shown to have a 99% success rate.

Pros of taking the pill

Taking the pill can be incredibly beneficial; it reduces a woman's risk of developing certain types of cancers, such as ovarian and endometrial cancer.

Furthermore, taking the pill can reduce menstrual cramps and pain, as well as provide additional protection from illnesses like acne. The pill also has psychological benefits, it can lead to a more balanced and regulated mood for those prone to mood swings during their period. In terms of convenience, the pill is also easy to use and does not require any additional equipment or appointments with a professional beyond its initial introduction.

Altogether, the pros of taking the pill make it an appealing contraception choice for many women.

Cons of taking the pill

Taking the pill has its downsides. For instance, many types of birth control have been linked to an increased risk of developing blood clots which can cause serious medical issues.

Additionally, when taken over a long period of time, hormonal contraceptives can interfere with sex hormones causing changes in libido or emotional health. Some people experience decreased or even lost libido while taking the pill and can suffer from mood swings due to hormone fluctuation and adjustments during the contraceptive cycle.

Lastly, the pill may interact poorly with other medications a person might be taking, and so it is important to consult one's doctor before starting any type of birth control program.

Who should not take the pill

The birth control pill is a great option for those who are looking for a safe and effective form of contraception, but it's not right for everyone. People with blood clotting disorders, certain types of cancer, heart disease, or uncontrolled high blood pressure should not take the pill.

Additionally, women over 35 who smoke cigarettes should talk to their doctor before taking the birth control pill. For people with these medical conditions or lifestyle choices, there are other contraceptive methods that may be better suited to their needs.

Before taking the birth control pill, it is important to talk to your doctor about all potential risks and complications associated with it.

Get the most out of your pill

Taking medication can be a really effective way to get the most out of your health and well-being. But, if you want to get the most benefit, it's important to ensure that you are taking it properly.

To do this, make sure you read the instructions on the packaging carefully and check what dose is right for you as everyone's needs are different. If in doubt, consult a pharmacist or doctor who can help explain how and when you should take your medication. Make sure you take your medication at regular times each day, as this will help dramatically improve the results.

Furthermore, keep a diary or log to track your progress and stay on top of doses; this will also help if unexpected side effects occur. Following these steps should go a long way in ensuring that you get the most out of your pill.

Alternatives to the pill

If you are interested in contraception that is hormone-free, there are several great alternatives to the pill available. For example, diaphragms are a great form of birth control for people who want a low-maintenance option because they need only to be used during sexual activity and can be taken out after.

Condoms offer an additional barrier of protection against pregnancy as well as sexually transmitted infections. Copper IUDs have been growing in popularity since they are long-term and reversible, making them an ideal choice for people searching for a long-term strategy.

Last but not least, the Fertility Awareness Method requires calculating the woman’s cycle and abstaining from intercourse when she is most fertile to reduce the chances of conception. Each of these options provide excellent levels of protection while protecting hormones from being disrupted.