Dear nikkis11,

The birth control pill is a safe and effective form of birth control. The pill offers many health benefits, including some protection against

• infection of the fallopian tubes (pelvic inflammatory disease), which often leads to infertility



• ectopic pregnancy



• noncancerous breast growths



• ovarian cysts



• cancer of the ovaries



• acne

As with all drugs, there may be some undesirable side effects for some women taking the pill. Some side effects that usually clear up after two or three months of use include

• bleeding between periods



• weight gain or loss



• breast tenderness



• nausea, rarely vomiting



• changes in mood

Serious problems do not occur very often. Pill users have a slightly greater chance of certain major disorders than nonusers. The most serious is the possibility of blood clots in the legs, lungs, heart, or brain.

Only a health care provider can determine if the pill is right for you. You'll need to go to a health center to get the Pill, where a clinician will examine you and ask you some questions to determine which kind is right for you.

Smokers and women with certain types of diabetes and other conditions shouldn't use the Pill.

Keep in mind that the pill offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections — none! The female or latex condom reduces the risk of infection.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.