Are Birth Control Pills Effective

Birth control pills or oral contraceptives are known to be one of the best birth control methods used by women. Used by over 100 million women all over the world, this form of birth control is the most popular method of contraception after condoms. However, its effectiveness is still a big question for many, the answer to which is being sought by them. If used in the correct manner, birth control pills can be really effective as a method of contraception and preventing pregnancy.

The use of birth control pills is highly advocated to prevent unplanned pregnancies and as an effective tool of family planning. Women who are using it or are planning to use it for contraception must educate themselves well regarding their effects and side effects.

Are Birth Control Pills Effective?

Yes, birth control pills are certainly effective, provided you know how and when to take them. Their effectiveness largely depends on the way you consume them and the birth control pill type that you use. The different types of birth control pills include combination pills, progestin-only pills and emergency pills. Emergency pills are purely for what the name suggests, 'emergency'. Taking them each time after unprotected sex can be very hazardous to health. They should be taken only as a measure in case of emergencies or accidents.

Progestin-only birth control pills are known to be less effective as compared to combination pills. Since combination pills contain both the female hormones, progesterone and estrogen, it is known to be the most effective type of birth control pill. Also the side effects of birth control pills of this type is very less compared to the others. Progestin-only birth control pills have a number of side effects, but can be taken by women who are suffering from estrogen-related disorders. It is advisable that you discuss the type of birth control pill to be used, with your doctor.

When you start taking birth control pills initially, they become effective or start displaying effectiveness after a month or after four weeks. As far as the emergency birth control pill is concerned, it will be effective only if taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sexual intercourse. The combination pill and progestin-only pills take almost one single day to be effective and there's also a catch here. These birth control pills have to be taken on daily basis and the progestin-only pills need to be taken daily at the same time. If you miss a pill one day, you will have to take two the next day, if you miss two then you need to take three and so on. If you fail to do so, the effectiveness of the pills will reduce a lot and it may also turn entirely ineffective. Taking them regularly will initiate the process of regulating the progesterone and estrogen levels in the body and maintain them at a constant level to prevent ovulation.

There are some other factors too that can affect birth control pill effectiveness or can make them less effective. Generally, birth control pills show less effectiveness on overweight or obese people, that is, your body weight can influence the effectiveness of the birth control pill. Consumption of certain medications like antibiotics and HIV medications and certain supplements can render the pill ineffective. Certain conditions like vomiting and diarrhea may also affect its effectiveness.