Birth control pills are a form of hormonal contraception that are taken orally in order to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills must be taken on schedule to guarantee effectiveness. Some women experience side effects with birth control pills, such as acne, weight gain and/or irritability. Often, these side effects are less severe with low-dosage pills, which are becoming more and more common.

A provision in the budget bill signed by President Obama on March 11, 2009 may spell good news for college students taking birth control pills. The bill restores an earlier incentive for drug manufacturers to offer discounts for their pills. College clinics have seen the price of birth control double, and sometimes triple, since 2007.Associated Press: Bill could lower birth control costs... (March 12, 2009)

1. Nausea or vomiting
2. Headache
3. Breast tenderness
4. Breast abnormalities
5. Stroke
6. Heart attack
7. Blood clots
8. Bleeding in between menstruation

Protection from sexually transmitted diseases is not possible when birth control pills are taken on their own. To prevent STDs, use a barrier method, such as a condom, in addition to birth control pills. Also, keep in mind that while condoms may provide more protection from STDs than any other form of birth control, it is still possible to contract STDs even when using one. There is no way to fully protect yourself from diseases if you are sexually active.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking birth control pills.