Hormonal oral contraceptives, commonly known as birth control pills, are pharmaceutical preparations that are taken orally to prevent pregnancy. These medications contain synthetic hormones that regulate a woman's fertility by influencing her reproductive system.
There are two main types of hormonal oral contraceptives: combination pills and progestin-only pills. Combination pills contain both estrogen and progestin hormones, while progestin-only pills contain only progestin hormones. These hormones work together to alter the woman's hormonal balance and prevent pregnancy through various mechanisms.
Hormonal oral contraceptives primarily act in three ways to prevent pregnancy. Firstly, they inhibit ovulation, preventing the release of an egg from the ovary. Secondly, they thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus. Lastly, they influence the lining of the uterus, making it unfavorable for implantation of a fertilized egg.
To ensure their effectiveness, hormonal oral contraceptives must be taken consistently and as directed by a healthcare provider. They are highly effective when used correctly, with a failure rate of less than 1% per year. However, it is important to note that hormonal oral contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Hormonal oral contraceptives are widely used around the world as a convenient and reversible method of birth control. They provide women with reproductive autonomy and can also offer additional benefits such as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing menstrual cramps, and improving acne.
