7 Facts You Need to Know About the Contraceptive Pill

The contraceptive pill is the most commonly used birth control around the western world. It is quick, easy and requires no extra work from the man. However, there are some things that you need to know so you can make an informed decision about your birth control.

It Doesn’t Protect Against STIs

The contraceptive pill cannot protect you from STIs. The only two forms of protection for that are the male and female condoms.

The pill is designed to change the hormone balance so your body doesn’t release an egg each month so you cannot get pregnant.

Bloating and Water Retention Are Common Side Effects

The contraceptive pill, whichever one you take, can cause water retention and bloating. You may hear that they cause weight gain but this is not necessarily the case.

The hormones will not make you fatter or slow your metabolism. The can increase appetite though, depending on the type of pill, so you need to think about the type of foods you are eating.

There Are Different Types of Pill

You can get the combined pill and the mini pill. The mini pill is a progesterone only pill, which is excellent for those who have issues with oestrogen pills.

The combined pill can come in both oestrogen and progesterone only pill. Your doctor will be able to discuss the different types of pill with you and find the right one for your needs.

The Side Effects Do Pass

The side effects, such as mood swings and tiredness, can be a problem when you first start the pill. However, they usually pass after the first couple of weeks.

It is just the case of your body trying to get used to the new levels of hormone. If they do continue for a prolonged period of time, you can talk to your doctor about them.

The weight and bloating side effect can cycle every month as it comes to the dummy pills (those that give you your week break).

There Are Breast Cancer Risks

If you take the oestrogen combined pill, there are some risks of breast cancer. This is due to the levels of oestrogen in the body.

The good news is that these are minimal and it is unlikely to affect you unless breast cancer runs in the family. If you are a high risk patient, you may be given the progesterone only pill.

The Pill Can Actually Protect Against Some Cancer

Research has shown that the pill has helped to protect people from other forms of cancer, especially bowel cancer.

It can also decrease the risk of developing cancer in the womb, which is extremely dangerous, especially if developed during pregnancy.

It’s Not Just for Pregnancy

The pill can be taken to help ease heavy and painful periods. Many under 16 year olds are prescribed the pill or something similar to help with this.

If your daughter has painful periods, you could talk to her about this option but make sure you both talk to the doctor and have a level of trust between you.

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