Birth control pills have been studied more than any other drug available today. They are a very effective, temporary way to prevent a pregnancy. They work by shutting off the normal cycle that makes a monthly egg, as well as making the womb an unfriendly place to both sperm and the fertilized egg. Birth control pills can be used by women of all ages. This includes young women who have recently started a normal cycle, as well as women in their 40's. The pills usually contain both the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, although there are progesterone only pills available. Birth control pills today use doses much smaller than the original birth control pills. There are over 30 different types available. A healthcare provider can help you find the right one for you..

A healthcare provider will examine you and review your health history. Women who have any of the following should not take birth control pills:
* blood clots of their legs or lungs,
* heart disease or stroke,
* breast, liver or uterine cancer, or
* vaginal bleeding with no known reason.

The following factors require careful consideration before placing a woman on birth control pills:
* high blood fats or lipids,
* severe migraines,
* chronic diseases like diabetes, sickle cell or lupus,
* liver or gallbladder disease,
* high blood pressure,
* an age of 35 or more who also smoke, or
* a breast feeding baby.

Birth control pills are given in monthly cycles. The first pill starts with your first few days of your period. From that point on, your cycle will adjust to the pill cycle. You will have a light, regular menstrual period. Many women have less premenstrual problems. Other benefits of the pill include decreased risk of uterine and ovarian cancers. There are some rare, but severe, side effects that you may want to review with your healthcare provider.

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