THE PILL
A SMALL TABLET THAT REQUIRES A STRICT ROUTINE.
TAKE IT A DAY AT A TIME
The pill is a contraceptive tablet containing hormones that you take once a day. There are different kinds of pills: the combined pill and the ‘mini' pill, as it is called. The combined pill contains estrogen and a progestin, which prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. They also thicken the cervical mucus, which keeps sperm from reaching the egg. The 'mini' pill contains just one hormone, a progestin, which is an alternative for those negatively affected by estrogen.
You should take the pill at the same time each day, whether or not you have sex. Ask your doctor or nurse whether the combined pill is a suitable method of contraception for you based on your medical history, and if it is, which is the best type for you.
HOW IT MEASURES UP
HORMONES
Yes. The hormones in the pill – either a progestin and estrogen, or only a progestin – are released throughout the entire body.
EASE OF USE
The pill must be taken at the same time every day, even if you don’t plan to have sex that day.
YOUR PERIOD
The pill makes menstrual bleeding even more regular, and may reduce heavy and painful periods.
WILL THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PILL BE AFFECTED BY OTHER MEDICATIONS?
Some medicines, such as antibiotics, may impact the effectiveness of the pill. It's always best to ask your doctor or nurse about possible interactions or interference.
I AM TAKING THE PILL BUT I HAVE A MISSED PERIOD. AM I PREGNANT? WHY IS MY PERIOD LATE?
If you don't get your period for more than two months in a row and are concerned you are pregnant, talk to your doctor or nurse immediately.
I BLED BETWEEN MY PERIODS. IS THAT NORMAL WHILST I AM ON THE PILL?
Some women experience bleeding between periods during the first two months of pill intake, and it usually disappears in the following menstrual cycles. There's usually nothing to worry about, but if this happens on a regular basis and you are worried, consult your doctor or nurse immediately.
WILL MY PILL STILL WORK IF I VOMIT OR HAVE DIARRHEA?
Vomiting or experiencing severe diarrhea within the first three to four hours after taking the pill can decrease its efficacy. In this case, an additional pill should be taken within 12 hours as a precaution, but it is always better to refer to the prescribing information of the pill you are taking. Taking an additional pill withing 12 hours as a precaution is not necessary if you are taking an 'inactive' pill. It is always advised to read the prescribing information of the pill you are taking.
WHEN DID THE CONTRACEPTIVE PILL COME OUT?
The contraceptive pill was first approved for public use in 1960 in the United States.
WHAT DOES ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE MEAN?
Oral contraceptive simply means that this form of contraceptive is a pill that is taken by mouth.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Make an appointment with your doctor or nurse today.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
1...
Pill taken at the same time every day.
8.8%
The percentage of women in unions worldwide who use the pill for contraception.
21, 24
OR 26?
Pill intake regimens vary based on the number of active ingredient pills versus placebo pills.
- It’s self-administered.
- Allows spontaneity and doesn’t interrupt sex.
- Some women experience lighter periods.
- Many women find it easy to use.
- The pill should be taken at the same time every day to be most effective.
- Some women experience breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, weight gain.
- Suppresses the natural hormone cycle.
- It doesn’t protect against HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
NEED ADVICE? SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL.
Seek out an appointment with your doctor or nurse for further support that meets your needs.
