All about the pill
Everything you need to know about the contraceptive pill
All about the Pill
There are two main types of oral contraceptive pills that are collectively known as ‘the Pill’.
The combined pill contains two hormones and stops the ovaries releasing an egg each month. The progestogen-only pill (mini pill) has only one hormone and works by changing the mucus at the entrance to the womb (uterus) so that sperm cannot pass through to fertilise the egg.
Prevents 99% of pregnancies
Birth control pills prevent pregnancy 99% of the time when you take them every day, exactly as prescribed.
Unlike other types of birth control, like condoms, the pill doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You’ll need to use additional protection along with the pill to reduce your risk of STIs.
The pill is safe to take for as long as you need to.
If I take the pill, will I be able to have healthy children in the future? Of course, taking the pill does not affect your fertility and it does not cause birth defects. If your periods were regular prior to taking the pill, they will return to normal if you stop the pill.
Myth : the pill can cause cancer
Does taking the pill cause cancer? The pill does not cause cancer. In fact, it actually protects against ovarian and uterine cancer. It also does not cause an increased risk of breast cancer.
Teens with a family history of breast cancer can still take the pill. Studies have shown that some women on the pill have a higher risk of cervical cancer, but cervical cancer is caused by HPV. The best way to prevent cervical cancer is to get the HPV vaccine and use condoms.
Myth : you need to take a break from the pill
How long can I take the pill before I need to give my body a break? I heard it’s not safe to take it for a long time...
In fact it is safe to take the pill to regulate your period, control menstrual cramps or prevent pregnancy for years. There is no medical reason or time limit for when you should stop taking the pill.
