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With so many different types of pills available on the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. This guide explains the types of birth control pills available, how they work, and their potential side effects.
Whether you are considering starting birth control pills or simply want to learn more about this contraceptive method, this guide provides all the information you need.
What Are Birth Control Pills and How Do They Work?
Birth control pills are oral contraceptives that contain synthetic versions of hormones that work together to prevent pregnancy when used correctly.
They may also be prescribed to treat menstrual disorders, endometriosis, and acne, and can reduce the risk of ovarian or uterine cancer.
What Types of Birth Control Pills Are Available?
There are various types of birth control pills available. Let’s explore each type in more detail.
Combination Pills
These pills contain a combination of estrogen and synthetic progestin hormones that reduce the risk of pregnancy by preventing ovulation and creating an unfavourable cervical and uterine environment for fertilisation.
Monophasic Pills
- These are combination pills that contain the same dose of hormones in each active pill and are taken in a one-month cycle. They are also known as single-phase pills.
- Monophasic pills usually come in a 21-day pack with a 7-day break (21/7) where no pills or placebo pills are taken, resulting in withdrawal bleeding. An alternative regimen is 24/4, which includes four days of placebo or low-dose estrogen.
Phasic Pills
- Phasic pills contain varying doses of estrogen and progestin over a one-month cycle, designed to mimic natural hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.
Extended-Cycle Pills
- These pills are designed to be taken continuously for up to three months (84/7), followed by a seven-day break with placebo or no pills.
- Using extended-cycle pills results in menstruation occurring only four times a year. Spotting or breakthrough bleeding is common.
Progestin-Only Pills
Also known as the “mini-pill,” this oral contraceptive option is intended for women who cannot or prefer not to use estrogen-containing contraceptives. Common progestins include norethindrone and drospirenone.
A pack of progestin-only pills contains 28 pills, and it is essential to take one pill every day within a specific time window. Depending on the type prescribed, the time window is either three hours or twelve hours. Consistent daily timing is crucial for effectiveness.
Progestin-only pills prevent pregnancy by:
- Suppressing ovulation
- Inhibiting sperm movement
- Thinning the endometrial lining
- Thickening cervical mucus
How Effective Are Birth Control Pills?
When taken correctly and consistently every day, birth control pills are highly effective at preventing unplanned pregnancy. Consistency is also important to minimise hormonal fluctuations.
A useful tip to maintain consistency is to use reminders, such as a birth control tracking app.
Be aware that certain medications may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills, including:
- Antibiotics (rifampicin)
- Anti-seizure medications (carbamazepine, phenytoin, barbiturates, topiramate, felbamate, oxcarbazepine, or primidone)
What Are the Side Effects of Birth Control Pills?
Like all medications, birth control pills may cause side effects in some women, while others may experience none.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular or light bleeding/spotting
- Amenorrhoea (absence of menstruation)
- Mood changes
- Worsening migraines
- Weight gain
Although rare, some serious risks include:
- Deep vein thrombosis
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart attack
Read more: Warning Signs of a Heart Attack.
- Breast and cervical cancer
If side effects persist after several months, your doctor may recommend switching to a different type of birth control pill that is more suitable for you.
What Are the Other Benefits of Birth Control Pills?
In addition to preventing pregnancy, birth control pills offer several health benefits, including:
- Treating acne
- Reducing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms
- Lowering the risk of infections in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus
- Reducing the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer
- Preventing anaemia (iron deficiency)
Frequently Asked Questions About Birth Control Pills
1. Do birth control pills affect mood?
Some women may experience mood changes, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, or irritability.
2. Do birth control pills cause weight gain?
Most research has not found conclusive evidence linking birth control pills to long-term weight gain. However, hormonal changes may cause temporary fluid retention, which usually resolves on its own.
3. Can I take birth control pills while breastfeeding?
Yes, certain birth control pills are safe during breastfeeding. Progestin-only pills are considered safe for nursing mothers.
4. Do birth control pills cause infertility?
No. Birth control pills do not cause infertility. Women who have used birth control pills have the same chance of becoming pregnant as those who have not. The pills only temporarily suppress fertility.
5. Can birth control pills stop my periods?
Yes. Birth control pills may cause missed or lighter periods due to hormonal changes. However, the absence of menstruation does not necessarily indicate pregnancy. Contributing factors include:
- Intense exercise
- Continuous use of birth control pills
- Dietary changes
- Stress
- Underlying health conditions
6. Do birth control pills cause fibroids to grow?
Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths in the uterus that may cause painful periods, pelvic pain, and other symptoms.
Read more: How to Relieve Menstrual Cramps.
Some studies suggest that hormones such as estrogen and progesterone may influence fibroid growth, but more research is needed for conclusive evidence.
Make an Appointment at Pantai Hospital
Birth control pills are a reliable contraceptive method. While common concerns such as weight gain or missed periods exist, these side effects are usually mild and temporary.
If you have questions or concerns about birth control pills, speak with your doctor, who can provide guidance and recommend the most suitable contraceptive method based on your individual needs.
Contact us today to book an appointment with our gynaecology team or to learn more about Obstetrics and Gynaecology services at your nearest Pantai Hospital.
Pantai Hospital is accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
