Oral Contraception

What is oral contraception?

Oral contraception is a type of birth control that is meant to be taken orally. Depending on the product, there may be differing levels of 2 hormones - progesterone and estrogen.

How effective is oral contraception?

It depends! If taken 'perfectly', as in used correctly all the time, the % of women who experience an unintended pregnancy within the first year of use is 0.3%. With 'typical 'use, or taking into account human error, the percentage of unintended preg

What is the difference between monophasic, biphasic and triphasic combined oral contraceptives?

All monophasic, biphasic and triphasic combination oral contraceptives have estrogen and progestin in each daily dose. However monophasic pills have a fixed dose of estrogen and progestins in each pill pack. Biphasic and triphasic combinations are de

What are placebo pills?

Often, when using oral contraceptives, there is a 7 day hormone free interval to allow you to have a period. These 'placebo' pills do not contain any hormone, and are part of your oral contraceptive pill pack.

When should I start my oral contraceptive?

There are several different ways to start your oral contraceptive for the first time. You can either. (1) Start on the first day of your period,. (2) Start on the first Sunday after your period begins (as lots of pill packs start on Sundays),. (3) St

How long until the oral contraceptive starts working?

It will take 48-72 hours for the birth control to kick in. but maximum effectiveness may not be reached for several days. Thats why it is recommended to use back-up contraception for at least 7 days, and preferably for your entire first cycle.

I just started birth control, and I am experiencing some spotting! Should I switch to a different brand?

It typically takes 3 months or 3 cycles for your cycle to stabilize while on a hormonal contraceptive. It is recommended to wait until then to determine whether or not you need to switch brands.

Help! I missed a combination pill. What should I do?

You have the highest risk of ovulating when you have a hormone free period of > 7 days. If you missed a dose in the 1st week, you should you use back-up contraception if needed until 7 consecutive days of correct use. If you missed less than 3 doses

Help! I missed a progestin only pill! What should I do?

If your pill-taking is delayed by more than 3 hours, or you missed more than 1 pill, and you have had unprotected sex in the past 5 days, consider emergency contraception. If you haven't had unprotected sex, take your pill ASAP and continue taking on

What are some side effects of oral contraceptive use?

Each individual will be affected different by contraceptive use. Side effects can include breast tenderness, cramps, weight gain, acne or spotting.

I heard oral contraception can be used to regulate your menstrual cycle. How does that work?

Sometimes individuals can have an irregular cycle. Oral contraceptives will release the right amount of hormones into your body, allowing for a regular hormonal cycle.