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Pill 411
by Kate McCarthy, 02.12.03
Revised by Jon Knowles, 08.12.08
When it comes to birth control, the pill is one of the best bets. Although it offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections, when it's used correctly, it's up to 99.7 percent effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy.
Although many women use the pill, there's a lot of confusion about how to use it correctly and how it reduces the risk of pregnancy. Here are the most common questions asked about the pill and the no-nonsense answers you need to know!
How can I get the pill?
You have to visit a family planning clinic, your HMO, or private doctor for a prescription for the pill. You can schedule an appointment at the nearest Planned Parenthood health center — call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN.
Do I need my parents' permission to get on the pill?
In general, minors do not need parental consent for prescription birth control. However, there may be certain locations where, for one reason or another, the provider will require parental permission.
How much does the pill cost?
The pill usually costs $25 to $35 a pack. That can be a heavy load when you have to buy a new pack every month. Planned Parenthood, other family planning clinics, and public health programs often provide reduced-rate or free services for teens. And here's a thought — if you're in a relationship with someone, why not ask your honey to chip in?
When does the pill start working?
That depends. Your clinician will tell you when to start taking the pill. If you start the combination pill within five days after the start of your period (the first day of bleeding), take the first active pill of the first pack. You will not need to use a back-up method of birth control. You are protected against pregnancy immediately.
If you start the combination pill at any other time during your menstrual cycle, take the first active pill of the first pack. Use another method of birth control if you have vaginal intercourse during the first week of combination pill use — protection will begin after seven days. Good back-up methods include the latex or female condom, the diaphragm, or the cervical cap.
You may start the progestin-only pill at any time. Use another method of birth control if you have vaginal intercourse during the first 48 hours of progestin-pill use — protection will begin after two days.
I heard the pill makes you gain weight. Is that true?
Nope. Some women gain weight while they're on the pill. Some women lose it. But it's not the pill. Women usually start taking the pill at a time in life when many women gain weight. That's why some people believe that the pill causes weight gain. But scientific studies have proven this to be untrue.
The possible side effects of the combined hormone pill include
- bleeding between periods
- breast tenderness
- nausea — rarely, vomiting
These side effects usually clear up after two or three months of using the pill. If you are still experiencing side effects after three months, you should consult the clinician who prescribed the pill.
On the other hand, there are non-contraceptive benefits that come along with using the pill, including, less acne, more regular periods, and less PMS.
I missed a pill! What should I do?
Check out this chart to see what to do if you forget a pill or two. And when in doubt, use a backup method of birth control, like a latex or female condom.
If I'm taking other medication, can it affect how well the pill works?
Other medications can affect the pill. If you are taking other medications, you should check with your clinician about the effectiveness of the pill.
So, how exactly does the pill work?
The pill works by preventing a woman's ovaries from releasing eggs (ovulation). They may also work by thickening the cervical mucus. This keeps sperm from joining with an egg. Rarely, they work by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.
Can any woman take the pill?
Smokers shouldn't take the pill because of increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Women with certain other medical conditions including certain kinds of diabetes, cancers of the breast or uterus, or history of blood clots or vein inflammation are also not able to take the Pill.
For complete information about the advantages, disadvantages, and effectiveness of the pill, check out The Pill.
Well, hope that cleared some things up for you! If you still have questions about the pill or other contraceptive concerns, contact your clinician or call 1-800-230-PLAN to be connected to the nearest Planned Parenthood health center. |
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