Daily Birth Control Pills, What Are The Benefits And Harms?

There are many methods of contraception, and taking daily birth control pills is highly effective if used correctly. So, what is the mechanism of daily birth control pills? Do they have any side effects? Let’s find out!

1. What are Daily Birth Control Pills?

Daily birth control pills are oral tablets containing two hormones, Estrogen and Progesterone, which control the activity of the uterus and ovaries to prevent pregnancy.

Research shows that daily birth control pills, when taken correctly and consistently, can be up to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. The failure rate is very low, about 1%, often due to missed doses or incorrect usage.

2. Benefits of Daily Birth Control Pills

Besides their primary function of preventing pregnancy, daily birth control pills offer several other benefits:

• Regulating menstrual cycles, making periods more regular and treating dysmenorrhea (painful periods).
• Reducing symptoms associated with menstruation such as cramps and acne.
• Addressing issues like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) or hair loss in women.
• Helping treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
• Assisting in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.
• Lowering the risk of conditions such as ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, breast tumors, or ectopic pregnancy.
• Preventing cancers like ovarian cancer and uterine cancer.

3. Do Daily Birth Control Pills Have Side Effects?

Despite their benefits, daily birth control pills can cause some unwanted side effects:

• Vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles.
• Nausea: Common in the early stages of taking the pills; can be mitigated by taking the pill with food.
• Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes can cause breast tightness in the first 2-3 weeks.
• Headaches: Hormonal alterations may lead to headaches or migraines.
• Weight gain: Pills can cause water retention in the hips and thighs, leading to weight gain.
• Mood swings: Hormonal changes can result in emotional instability and an increased risk of depression if not managed properly.
• Vision problems.
• Reduced libido: Hormonal changes can decrease vaginal lubrication, causing pain during intercourse and leading to a decreased interest in sexual activity. Incorrect dosage can lead to chronic pelvic pain in women.
• Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation during the pill cycle due to hormonal changes and external factors like stress, illness, or intense physical activity. Consult a doctor if unusual symptoms occur.

4. Some Notes When Using Daily Birth Control Pills

• Read the instructions carefully before taking the pills. Consult a doctor to choose the right type of pill for your health condition.
• Take the pill consistently at the same time every day, ideally in the evening before bedtime.
• Women with heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, cerebrovascular disorders, etc., should not take the pills.
• If side effects persist for a long time or occur more frequently than usual, seek medical advice promptly.
• If you notice any abnormal signs or symptoms after taking the pill, contact or visit the nearest medical center for emergency support.