Oral contraceptives also known as birth-control pills are used for the prevention of pregnancy. The two female sex hormones are estrogen and progestin. Combinations of these two female hormones help in the prevention of ovulation. They also prevent pregnancy from developing by changing the lining of the uterus (womb) and preventing sperm (male reproductive cells) from entering by changing the mucus at the cervix (opening of the uterus). Though Oral contraceptives are a very effective method of birth control, but they do not prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as well as other sexually transmitted diseases.

Other uses for Oral Contraceptives

The combination birth control pills works by suppressing ovulation. When combination birth control pills are used the ovaries stop releasing egg. It also thickens the cervical mucus and thins the lining of the uterus (endometrium). This prevents the sperm from reaching the egg.

The minipill works by thickening the cervical mucus and thining the endometrium, thus preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. At times the minipills also operate by suppressing ovulation; however it does not contain estrogen. Moreover, the progestin dose in a minipill is also lower than the progestin dose in any combination oral contraceptive pill.

Dosage of Oral Contraceptives

Usually the birth control pills are packed as 21-day or 28-day units. While using the 21-day package, the tablets are taken daily for 21 days. On the completion of 21 days, no birth control pills are taken for the seven-day period. Thereafter, the cycle repeats.

In case if birth control pills are taken during pregnancy there is nothing to be alarmed. There is very little evidence of birth control pills causing birth defects. However, since the birth control pills contain a potent estrogen, it is advisable to discontinue the usage of birth control pills to prevent the chances of miscarriage in early pregnancy.

On stopping the intake of the birth control pill a window period of two-weeks should be given to resume ovulation. Period should start within four to six weeks of the last pill. Once ovulation resumes, one can become pregnant at any point of time.

Usage of of Oral Contraceptives for Nursing mothers

It is recommended that the nursing mothers should avoid estrogen-containing contraceptive until the baby is at least six months old and is not solely dependent on his mother’s milk. This is because Estrogen-containing contraceptives have been linked to low milk supply and a shorter duration of breastfeeding. However, not all mothers taking contraceptives containing estrogen experience low milk supply.

However, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends both progestin (progesterone) and estrogen for use in breastfeeding mothers.

Overdose of Oral Contraceptives

In case of overdose, the victim should immediately seek professional medical help.

Symptoms of overdose are:

A missed dose indicates that the person in concern is not protected from pregnancy. Under such circumstances, additional protection must be taken through a backup method of birth control for seven days or until the end of the cycle. However, every brand of oral contraceptives comes with specific directions, which are to be followed in case of one or more missed doses. These instructions should be carefully read and followed in order to avoid pregnancy.

Storage of Oral Contraceptives

This medicine is usually kept in the packet in which it is bought. The packet should be tightly closed and kept out of reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. It should not be stored in bathroom.

Also Read..

Types of Oral Contraceptives

Sides Effects of Oral Contraceptives

Warnings of Oral Contraceptives

Precautions For Oral Contraceptives

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Oral Contraceptives and Monthly periods

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last Updated: April 29, 2012