Types of Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills or oral contraceptives are a type of hormonal birth control method that help in preventing pregnancy. These pills contain synthetic female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, similar to the ones produced by the female ovaries. Birth control pills have become very popular in this age among couples who are opting for small families or no children at all. Many women opt for these pills, among different methods of family planning, as a measure for birth control.

Types of Birth Control Pills and Their Side Effects

Conception takes place when a sperm fertilizes the egg. When this fertilized egg or embryo implants itself in a woman's uterus, she is said to be pregnant. During every menstrual cycle, ovulation occurs and certain hormones are released to prepare the body for pregnancy. The main function of birth control is to inhibit the sperm from fusing with the egg. Birth control pills are a form of hormonal contraceptives that release artificial hormones to control the actual hormones from performing their role. They help in family planning by inhibiting the production of ova or eggs. Birth control pills have to be taken regularly for 21 days. Once the dose is over, you will get your period. You can resume taking pills after a week. You must strictly follow the regime of taking the pills at the same time everyday, because even if you forget to take a pill for a day, there are chances of you becoming pregnant. Use of hormonal contraceptives makes the inner lining of the uterus unfit for the implantation of the zygote. Another way is the oral contraceptives thicken the cervical mucus in the womb, thus preventing the sperm from reaching the ovum.

Combination Pills
Combination pill is made of synthetic estrogen and progesterone, which prevent pregnancy by causing changes to the reproductive tract. They prevent ovulation and also prevent the sperm from reaching the egg by thickening the cervical mucus. There are three types of combination pills available in the market - monophasic, biphasic and triphasic. They are available in 21-day or 28-day packs. In the 21-day pack, all the pills are active and the woman does not take pills for the last week of the cycle. In the 28-day pack, the woman takes 21 active pills and seven placebo pills or supplements that are inactive.
Side Effects - The side effects of birth control pills include nausea, breast tenderness, low libido and frequent headaches. Irregular bleeding may occur within the first two months of its usage. Women having a history of heart disease or high blood pressure should avoid taking combination pills.

Mini Pills
The mini pill contains only synthetic progesterone, which thickens the uterine mucus making it harder for the sperm to impregnate the egg and changes the inner wall of the uterus making it impossible for the embryo to embed in the uterine wall. The mini pill comes in a 28-day pack with all the pills being active. It is specially made for women who are allergic to estrogen containing birth control pills.
Side Effects - Lactating mothers should not consider using mini pills as it may reduce milk production. Women suffering from blood clots become more susceptible to blood cancer. They can also cause a woman to have irregular menstruation.

Extended Cycle Pill
The extended cycle pill is a recent inclusion in birth control pills that are available in the market. This pill limits the occurrence of menstrual cycle from 13 cycles per year to just four or a single period per season.
Side Effects - The estrogen and progesterone levels in this pill can worsen diabetes as it increases glucose in the bloodstream. Women taking extended cycle pill may experience abdominal cramping, heat flashes, fatigue and also have difficulty sleeping.

One question that many women ask is 'Are birth control pills effective?' Though there are many birth control pills types available in the market, the effectiveness of these oral contraceptives depends on the pill type. Before you start a dose of birth control pills, consult a gynecologist, who may guide you appropriately.