Birth Control Pills:

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Intro	Who should NOT take BCP's
Side Effects	How to take BCP's
Medical Benefits	Frequently Asked Questions

Are there different kinds of birth control pills?

Yes. There are many different kinds of birth control pills (there are different doses of hormones in different hormonal pills). You will be asked questions about your medical history and also about your health insurance and if you have a co-pay for different pills. Your health care provider may prescribe a progestin-only pill (if there is a medical reason why you shouldn't take estrogen)If you don't have any medical problems that would put you at risk for medical complications, your health care provider will decide which birth control pill is the best one for your first prescription.

 

What if I'm not happy with the birth control pill that I'm taking?

If you're not happy with the birth control pill that you are taking and the effects they have on you, talk to your health care provider. Don't just give up and stop taking them. Your provider can give you a prescription for a different type of pill. There are many types, and they affect people differently. Some you'll like, and some you won't. You may have to try a few different types before you find the one that works best for you.

 

How long can I be on birth control pills?

It is safe for you to be on the Pill for years, whether to regulate your menstrual cycle, treat your cramps, or take for hormone replacement or birth control.

 

Do I need to use other forms of contraception with the Pill?

Birth control pills don't protect a woman from getting sexually transmitted diseases. It's very important to use condoms when having sexual intercourse. Condoms are also an important second method if you miss more than one birth control pill, especially during the first month of pills (to be extra safe); when you are taking other medications that change the effectiveness of the Pill, or when you are sick with diarrhea or vomiting. Anytime you get a new medication, ask your health care provider if it changes the effectiveness of the birth control pill.

 

Do I need to take a break from the Pill?

There is no medical reason that you need to take a “break” from the Pill.

 

Will I have trouble getting pregnant after using the birth control pill?

There is no change in fertility with the use of birth control pills. However, if your periods were irregular before you started taking the Pill, it's likely that your periods will be irregular again when you stop taking it.

 

Does the birth control pill cause birth defects?

No, the Pill does not cause birth defects nor does it affect the health of future children.

 

Does the birth control pill cause cancer?

No. The Pill actually protects against cancer of the ovaries and cancer of the lining of the uterus. A woman is half as likely to get cancer of the uterus or ovaries if she takes the Pill. Most experts believe that taking oral contraceptive pills does not cause an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Even girls with a family history of breast cancer can take the Pill.

 

Can I smoke if I'm taking the Pill?

For lots of reasons, it's much better to not smoke. By quitting smoking (or never starting), you lower your risks on the Pill. Smoking increases your risk for heart disease (including blood clots and stroke). The more you smoke and the older you are, the higher the risk.

 

Do birth control pills protect against STDs?

Birth control pills don't protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms help to prevent most sexually transmitted diseases.

 

What if I forget to take my birth control pill(s) and I'm sexually active?

Talk to your health care provider. Emergency contraception is generally recommended if you've had unprotected intercourse during the time you have missed your birth control pills. In the United States, if you are 17 or older, you can buy Plan B One-Step™ or Next Choice® without a prescription. If you are under 17, you will need a prescription from your health care provider. Ella™ is a new emergency contraceptive however a prescription is needed to get it.

 

Should I tell my friends that I'm taking birth control pills?

It depends. You may or may not want to tell your friends that you are taking birth control pills. Even if you're taking birth control pills as hormonal treatment for a medical condition, someone hearing that you are taking “the Pill” may assume it's because you are having sex. However, you may want to share with your friends so they can help you with ideas on how to avoid missing pills. Just think about what's best for you.

 

How do I talk to my parents about taking the Pill?

If you decide to tell your parent(s) that you are taking birth control pills, (even if you are taking them for a medical reason) you'll want to put some thought into how to tell them. They may assume you are sexually active which may cause them to ask you questions that might make you feel uncomfortable at first. However, at the same time it's a good idea to have a calm and open conversation as they can be a good resource for you if you have any questions or concerns about the Pill. Talk about the benefits of the Pill as well as their concerns. If your parent(s) or guardian(s) have questions, tell them about our health guide: “Birth Control Pills and Teens: A Guide for Parents”.

 

Where can I get birth control pills?

Girls may take birth control pills for bad cramps, irregular periods, and contraception. You can get a prescription for birth control pills from your health care provider. Your health care provider will check your blood pressure and weight, ask you about your medical history and your family's, and ask whether you smoke and if you use condoms. If you don't have any medical issues that would make taking birth control pills a problem, your health care provider will probably write you a prescription right then. You can buy birth control pills at a pharmacy or by mail order depending on your insurance plan. The cost for a monthly pill pack is usually between $9-$50 depending on the type you get and your insurance co-pay. It is normal to have a follow-up visit after you have been on the Pill for 3 months, to check your weight and blood pressure. Make sure that you make an appointment long before you run out of pills so you never miss any.

 

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Written and reviewed by the CYWH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

Updated: 10/18/2011

 

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