Female Oral Contraceptives

Combined hormonal contraceptives contain estrogen and progestin, which suppress ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to pass through, and alter the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. The other type, progestin-only pills, contain only progestin and offer an option for women who cannot use estrogen, such as those who are breastfeeding.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • When taken correctly, they are more than 99% effective.
  • They do not have long-term effects on your fertility.
  • They can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce period pain.
  • They may help alleviate premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  • They are easy to purchase and do not require a prescription.
  • Some brands can help improve acne (consult a doctor before use).
  • They reduce the risk of ovarian, uterine, and colon cancers.
  • They do not interfere with the sexual experience.

Disadvantages

  • Temporary side effects may occur in the first 1-3 months of use, such as headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood swings, or decreased libido, but these usually subside.
  • Buying them can sometimes be embarrassing, especially for women (you can opt to buy online or visit a Family Planning Association clinic).
  • They may raise your blood pressure.
  • You might experience spotting or light bleeding, especially when you first start taking them, which is very common.
  • Other medications may affect the effectiveness of the pills, so consult a doctor before starting them.
  • They do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Where Can I Get Them?

If you’re taking them for the first time, it is highly recommended to consult a doctor at a private clinic, Family Planning Association, or youth health center before purchasing. After the initial consultation, you can continue purchasing them from Family Planning Association clinics or women’s centers. They are also available at pharmacies and private clinics—just remember to check the expiration date. The Department of Health’s Maternal and Child Health Centers also offer consultation services, where healthcare professionals can provide guidance on various contraceptive methods, including condoms, birth control pills, contraceptive injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and emergency contraception.

During a consultation with healthcare professionals, you can expect:

  • A few questions about your medical history and family history to determine the most suitable method for you.
  • You should inform the healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking to ensure they do not interfere with the effectiveness of the pill.
  • The doctor or nurse will check your blood pressure and weight.

How to Use Female Oral Contraceptives

21-Day Pack
  • Start taking the pill on the first day of your period, one pill at the same time every day for 21 days straight.
  • After finishing the 21 pills, you will usually get your period within a day or two. After a 7-day break (whether or not your period has stopped), you should start the next pack.

28-Day Pack

  • Start taking the pill on the first day of your period, one pill at the same time every day for 28 days straight.
  • After finishing the 28 pills, immediately start the next pack.

If you’re starting the pill for the first time on the 6th day of your period or later, use additional contraception (e.g., male or female condoms) for the first week of taking the pill.

Different brands of birth control pills have different formulations and ingredients, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with the packaging.

What to Do if You Miss a Pill or Experience Vomiting or Diarrhea After Taking a Pill?

  1. If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember, then take the next pill at your regular time.
  2. If you miss two pills, take one missed pill immediately (discard the other missed pill), and continue taking the rest of the pills at the regular time. Use condoms for the next 7 days as extra contraception.
  3. If you vomit or have severe diarrhea within 4 hours of taking a pill, it may not have been fully absorbed, which is similar to missing a pill. Follow the same advice as for missed pills.
  4. If you are concerned about your health or contraception status, consult a doctor at a private clinic, Family Planning Association, or Maternal and Child Health Center.

Some People Should Avoid Combined Hormonal Pills, Such As Those With the Following Conditions or Characteristics:

  • Thrombosis, breast or genital cancer, severe liver disease, cerebrovascular or coronary artery disease, severe hypertension, diabetes, etc.
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • Suspected or confirmed pregnancy
  • Currently breastfeeding
  • Over 35 years old and a smoker

Important Notes:

  1. Choose a time that works best for you to take the pill, and take it at the same time every day. Consistency is key to ensuring maximum effectiveness.
  2. Set an alarm or reminder to help you remember to take the pill regularly and to build the habit.