What You Need to Know About Combination Birth Control Pills

The combination birth control pills that are available contain both progestin and estrogen. These types of medications work to prevent the release of an egg from your ovaries, suppressing ovulation. They also work to prevent sperm from making contact with the egg by altering the cervical mucus. There are different types available, such as those that allow you to have fewer periods per year. Before deciding on which combination birth control pill to use, make sure to research your options and have a conversation with your healthcare provider.

Can these Medications Help with Other Health Issues?

These medications do have health benefits beyond providing contraception. A reduction in your risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers, ovarian cysts, benign breast disease, ectopic pregnancy and uterine fibroids are some of the most notable. They may also lessen the severity of menstrual cramping, reduce polycystic ovarian syndrome-related androgen production, provide PMS relief, improve acne, reduce menorrhagia and the iron deficiency anemia related to it, and help to make menstrual periods more bearable.

Are there Risks Associated with Combination Birth Control Pills?

Approximately eight women per every 100 that use combination birth control will find themselves pregnant during the first year that they use this medication. This means that this medication is not 100 percent effective and you should still take other precautions to avoid pregnancy.

Side effects are also possible with this medication. These may include spotting or breakthrough bleeding, decreased libido, headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, elevated blood pressure and mood changes. If any of these get worse or simply do not go away, let your healthcare provider know.

These medications increase the risk of certain more serious conditions. These may include blood clots in the leg, stroke and heart attack, gallbladder disease and liver tumors.

There are also more serious side that are possible. These need to be reported to your healthcare provider immediately. These include abdominal pain, chest pain, difficulty speaking, fainting, worsening or new headaches, severe allergic skin rash, severe mood swings, breast lump, depression, eye problems, jaundice, seizure, severe leg swelling or pain and two missed periods.

Taking this Type of Medication

You should always take it at the same time everyday. This will help you remember to take it and will help ensure maximum effectiveness. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best start date. Some times are better than others, and you cannot start this during your menstrual period. Talk to your healthcare provider about how to handle missed pills and have this information handy just in case you do miss one.