Oral Contraceptives: Top 5 facts you need to know

Oral Contraceptives: Top 5 facts you need to know

1. Oral contraceptives have been estimated to be 92-99% effective if taken correctly

2. Generally, oral contraceptives act by inhibiting the body’s natural production of these hormones resulting in the prevention of ovulation, thickening of the mucus in the cervix (opening of the womb) to prevent the sperms from entering.

3. Oral contraceptives do not prevent the transmission of STIs eg. HIV/AIDs

4. Emergency contraceptives are taken once in a while to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. The everyday (ED) oral hormonal contraceptives are not the same as emergency pills and must be taken regularly for maximum effect and it is usually recommended if you are likely to have multiple sexual intercourses with no intention of pregnancy

5. Some common side effects include vaginal spotting and abnormal bleeding which usually decreases after the first 3 months, breast tenderness, bloating, and nausea. However, for issues concerning weight gain, studies have shown that they are not really massive.