• Hormones in pills stop eggs from leaving the ovaries.
• Changes mucus at cervix which prevents sperm from entering the uterus to fertilize egg.
  
  

• Breast and pelvic exam may be needed.
• Pills can be prescribed without a pelvic exam after a medical history and blood pressure are taken.
  
   

• One pill is taken at the same time each day. 
• New pill users use a back-up birth control method for one week.
  
   

• Easy to use. 
• Doesn't interrupt sex. 
• May decrease menstrual cramps.
• Decreases risk of ovarian and endometrial (lining of the uterus) cancer and breast problems. 
• Provides protection against tubal infection called PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease).
  
   

• Minor side effects that usually disappear after the first 2-3 months of use: nausea, bloated feeling, light or missed periods, spotting between periods, weight gain or loss, tender breasts, mood changes. If these happen don't stop taking the pill; call your clinic or health care provider. 
• For women with certain risk factors, medical conditions and those who smoke, there is increased risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke. 
• No protection against STIs/HIV.
  

Effectiveness: 97% - 99%

More information on Birth Control Pills.