Thanks to the dedication of specialists and women who refused to accept that sex should only have the purpose of procreation, the most effective method of preventing unwanted pregnancy was created – accessible to everyone and currently the most widely used contraceptive method. The birth control pill was developed in 1960 and, to this day, remains the simplest and most affordable way for women to protect themselves.

What is the Birth Control Pill?

The birth control pill consists of small tablets made from hormones, with the sole purpose of preventing ovulation from occurring. It also thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg if, due to incorrect use of the method, ovulation does happen. In this way, the pill creates two barriers of protection, ensuring higher effectiveness. There are two types of birth control pills: one is made from a combination of synthetic estrogen and progesterone, and the other is called the mini-pill, consisting of only one hormone, progesterone, which is an option for women who cannot use estrogen. If used correctly, it offers a 98% effectiveness in preventing unwanted pregnancy. In addition to preventing pregnancy, it is also recommended as a method of hormonal regulation, menstrual regulator, for acne control, in the treatment of cysts, and also helps control the uncomfortable symptoms of PMS, such as severe cramps. It considerably reduces menstrual flow, improving the quality of life for women who suffer from heavy periods, and also reduces the chances of anemia, precisely because there is less blood loss during this time. However, we need to point out that the pill does not only bring benefits—of course, this is not a rule, but it’s important to be aware of the possibilities.

How to Use the Birth Control Pill?

Using the birth control pill is relatively easy, but it requires caution, attention, and, above all, self-discipline to guarantee its effectiveness. The pill should be taken daily, ideally at the same time each day. You must take one tablet per day until finishing the pack, always following the day-of-the-week markings to make sure you don’t miss a dose. Regular birth control pill packs typically contain 21 pills, and after finishing the pack, you must take a 7-day break to allow for menstruation before starting a new pack. This break can vary depending on the pill type, ranging from 4, 5, or 7 days as mentioned. There are also continuous-use birth control pills, which do not require a break; after the last tablet of one pack, you should start the next pack the following day. Some types of birth control pills even include placebo pills for the break period, ensuring you don’t forget to start the next pack on time. For women who aren’t very disciplined or can’t strictly follow a monthly schedule, this is the best way to use the method more reliably.

Side Effects of the Birth Control Pill

The birth control pill is indeed a safe, low-cost method that’s accessible to all women, as it is available at any pharmacy at affordable prices. In fact, in Brazil the SUS (Public Health System) provides it free of charge at its pharmacies, with a doctor’s prescription. However, despite being a safe and effective contraceptive, we need to highlight possible side effects, which can often be resolved by switching brands or hormone compositions. Therefore, it is essential to start using it under your gynecologist’s supervision, who will prescribe the best option for your body and track any side effects. If you experience any, your doctor can recommend switching pills if necessary.

Headaches

Many women report experiencing severe headaches after starting some types of birth control pills—headaches so intense that they can cause nausea and vomiting. This is related to the significant hormonal changes the body undergoes at the start of hormonal contraceptive use. It is generally a normal effect during the first weeks or month of use but should be discussed with your gynecologist if the headaches are so strong that they interfere with your daily activities. If symptoms persist for more than three packs, your gynecologist may recommend switching your birth control pill.

Weight Gain

This is the side effect most “complained about” by women using the birth control pill. But let’s debunk a myth: many women truly believe that extra pounds are caused by hormones. In fact, it’s not the pill itself, but rather body changes related to hormone levels, which can cause increased appetite or even bloating from fluid retention. The ideal is to maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly to keep your weight in check and maintain a healthy body. But if you experience significant weight gain, talk to your gynecologist so they can assess and, if appropriate, change the hormonal component. This side effect is usually associated with continuous-use pills or subcutaneous implant contraceptive methods.

Reduced Libido

One of the problems the pill can cause—potentially creating major issues in relationships—is a lack of libido. This can happen due to a reduction in testosterone production. It’s best to discuss with your gynecologist, who can adjust hormonal levels, and if needed, even recommend hormone replacement to resolve the issue.

Mood Changes

Long-term use of birth control hormones can lead to reduced production of serotonin, the hormone related to mood. If this production is altered, mood changes become much more common, increasing the risk of depression. In these cases, it’s recommended to switch contraceptive methods, such as using an IUD, diaphragm, or even the contraceptive patch.

When Should I Stop Taking the Birth Control Pill?

The birth control pill can be used by any woman, except when a health issue arises and the gynecologist thinks it’s more appropriate to stop, especially if there’s an intolerance to one of the hormonal components. If side effects are so intense they prevent you from living a normal, healthy life, you should talk to your doctor and either switch medications or consider a different contraceptive method. Nowadays, there are many methods to choose from—find what works best for your needs and especially your body. So, it’s essential to discuss any new or different symptoms with your doctor after starting any contraceptive method. Birth control should be a way to feel safe and prevent unwanted pregnancy, not a source of discomfort or distress in your daily life. Try all the methods until you find what feels most comfortable to your body and be happy. Photo: Doctor 4U