How Is the Birth Control Pill Used?

Pregnancy Prevention

The primary use for birth control pills is to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills contain hormones that keep a woman from ovulating. If she does not produce an egg, there can be no fertilization or pregnancy. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, birth control pills are 99 percent effective when they are taken properly.

Period Regulation

Birth control pills are used by some women for certain medical benefits related to the menstrual cycle. The Center for Young Women's Health says they can regulate erratic menstrual periods and reduce problems such as severe cramping and heavy bleeding. They may also reduce the length of time that a woman's period lasts.

Other Uses

Certain types of birth control pills are used to treat other health conditions in women. For example, Yaz birth control pills have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat moderate acne and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), so they can be prescribed specifically for those purposes. When a woman is taking birth control pills for another condition, she will not be able to become pregnant because they will still prevent ovulation.

References

• Birth control pill information
• Birth control pill information