Pills: birth control

Used properly, the birth control pill is 99% effective. It does not protect against STIs. Use a condom.

If you smoke cigarettes, the birth control pill increases your risk of getting a blood clot, stroke or heart attack.

What is the birth control pill?

The oral contraceptive pill or birth control pill contains two hormones (estrogen and progestin) that you take every day at the same time.

How does the birth control pill work?

The pill prevents the ovary from releasing an egg. It also thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

How effective is the birth control pill?

The pill is 99% effective at preventing an unplanned pregnancy when used correctly.

What are the possible side effects of the birth control pill?

• nausea
• breast tenderness
• moodiness
• spotting between periods
• if you are a smoker, the pill increases your risk of a blood clot, heart attack or stroke

What are the advantages of the birth control pill?

• you don’t have to do anything before or after sex
• lighter and/or shorter periods
• reduced menstrual cramps
• it doesn’t affect your ability to get pregnant in the future

What are the disadvantages of the birth control pill?

• you have to remember to take it at the same time each day
• you need a prescription

Where can I get the birth control pill?

The birth control pill can be prescribed by:

• your health care provider
• Public Health Sudbury & Districts’ Sexual Health Clinic
• a walk-in-clinic

*The pill offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS.

For more information about the birth control pill, or to book an appointment at our sexual health clinic, contact us.

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This item was last modified on December 18, 2024