Birth Control Pills were first developed in the early 1900’s, however, they did not become legal and available to all women until 1972. Since being approved by the FDA, Birth Control Pills have become one of the most popular forms of contraception. As many of you know, birth control pills help to control fertility and prevent pregnancy.
How Does The Pill Work?
Different hormones in a woman’s body control the ovulation process. Ovulation is the process of an egg being released from the ovary. In order for a woman to become pregnant, her egg needs to be fertilized by a man’s sperm. Birth Control Pills contain different amounts of hormones and estrogen that help to prevent this process.
Although there are many different forms of birth control, the most common is the pill. The pill is taken at the same time every day for twenty-eight days. The last seven pills have a placebo effect, allowing the woman to get her period. Extended cycle pills are also used, which means a woman will only have her menstrual cycle four times a year.
There are a few different ways that Birth Control pills work. The pill helps to prevent the ovulation process, which in turn prevents pregnancy. Stopping this process will prevent an egg from being released and latching on to the sperm. Birth Control pills can also thicken the cervical mucus, preventing the sperm from traveling to the cervix. Thickening the cervical mucus will make it more difficult for the sperm to find an egg, reducing the risk of fertilization.
Over 90% of women in the United States have tried some form of birth control. There are many different brands of birth control on the market today. Many times, women will have to try different brands or combinations to see which one works for them. Women respond differently to certain birth control pills, experiencing different side effects. Some of the most common side effects of birth control pills include, weight gain, mood changes, and nausea. Birth control is not 100% effective and back up contraception should be used in conjunction with the pill.