Before diving into the different types of oral birth control, it’s important to understand the basics of reproduction. Ovaries, attached to the uterus by fallopian tubes, release an egg each month. If a sperm fertilizes this egg, it travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus, where it implants and grows into a baby over nine months.
Oral birth control pills, which contain female hormones, prevent pregnancy through various mechanisms. There are two main types: the mini pill and combination pills.
The Mini Pill
Composition and Mechanism: The mini pill contains progestin, a form of progesterone. It works by:
- Thickening the cervical mucus
- Thinning the endometrium
- Slowing the egg’s progress through the fallopian tube
Advantages:
- Suitable for patients at high risk for blood clots, migraines, or high blood pressure
- Lowers the risk of endometrial cancer
- Less likely to interfere with breastfeeding
Disadvantages:
- Requires strict adherence; if taken more than three hours late, additional birth control is needed for two days
- Can cause irregular menstrual periods, ovarian cysts, lowered libido, tender breasts, acne, weight gain, depression, and unwanted hair growth
- Slightly increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
Combination Pills
Composition and Mechanism: Combination pills contain both estrogen and progesterone. They:
- Prevent the release of the egg from the ovary
- Thicken the cervical mucus
- Thin the endometrium
- Slow the egg’s progress through the fallopian tube
Advantages:
- Shorter, lighter, and more predictable periods
- Relief from dysmenorrhea (severe menstrual cramps) and premenstrual syndrome
- Treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis
- Lowered risk of ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancer
- Improved bone mineral density
Disadvantages:
- Can cause nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and breakthrough bleeding, though these may decrease with continued use
- Risk of elevated blood pressure, heart attacks, and stroke, particularly in smokers
- Potential for blood clots, liver disorders, and gallbladder disease
Oral Birth Control: Final Thoughts
Choosing the right oral contraceptive requires a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your health history and individual needs. They can help determine the safest and most effective option for you.
Book an appointment with a QuickMD provider today for personalized advice and to get a prescription for the best-suited oral contraceptive. Our telemedicine services make it easy to get the care you need from the comfort of your home.
