"All of the above"

is the correct answer.

  • Most oral contraceptives contain both estrogen and progestin and work by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and changing the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from implantation.

  • When taken according to instructions for proper use, the pill is about 99.5% effective.

  • All oral contraceptives sold at the Campus Health Pharmacy have 28 pills (21 hormone, 7 placebo). Menstruation occurs during the days placebo pills are taken.

  • Begin taking the pill the first Sunday after you start your period and take it the same time every day (within two hours). You can also start the first pack of pills on the first day of your period.

  • Use a back up method of contraception (i.e. condoms, diaphragm) for at least the first 7 days.

  • Antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of the pill so a back-up method of contraception (i.e. abstinence, condoms) must be used while taking antibiotics.

  • If a pill is missed refer to the instructional sheet that comes with each prescription pack for directions about how to resume contraceptive use.

Advantages of the pill:

  • easy to take
  • lighter, shorter and more regular periods
  • decreased premenstrual symptoms (PMS)
  • decreased risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer

Disadvantages of the pill:

  • must be consistent to be effective
  • common side effects that last up to three months:
    • breast tenderness
    • nausea
    • spotting or light bleeding between periods
    • some women experience weight gain
    • does not provide any STD protection

The only serious adverse effect of the pill is the extremely rare possibility of a blood clot in a vein. Danger signs to look for while taking the pill:

  • A. Abdominal pain (severe)
  • C. Chest Pain (severe), cough, shortness of breath
  • H. Headache (severe), dizziness, weakness, or numbness
  • E. Eye problems (vision loss or blurring), speech problems
  • S. Severe leg pain (calf or thigh)

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your medical provider immediately.