Oralcontraceptives(OCP) are birth control pills.
They are sometimes referred to as hormonal contraceptives or simply the pill.
OCPs do notprevent sexually transmitted infections(STIs).
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Types
Oral contraceptives use synthetic female hormones to prevent pregnancy.
Combination pills and progestin-only (minipills) are the two main OCP types.
Depending on the throw in, they can be taken conventionally, for extended use, or continuously.
Combination Birth Control Pills
Combination birth control pillsare the most commonly prescribed.
They contain synthetic versions of the female hormones estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) andprogesterone(progestin).
This pill does not contain estrogen.
Some common progestin-only OCPs include Camila, Errin, and Heather (norethindrone).
Opill is the first and only birth control pill available without a prescription.
When taking a conventional pack, vaginal bleeding occurs once a month while taking the inactive pills.
When you take a break from the pill, you will usually experiencewithdrawal bleeding.
Seasonique (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is an example of an OCP used for extended use.
Continuous-Use Pills
Continuous-usepills is similar to extended-use pills.
The difference is that you dont take a break from hormones for a year or more.
You do not typically have withdrawal bleeding when taking birth control this way.
Sometimes it takes trying different brands or types of OCPs to find the one that works for you.
Effectiveness
Oral birth control pills are 99%effectivewhen taken as directed.
This means consistently and correctly, every day at the same time.
This may mean you take two pills on the same day.
If you miss two or more pills, continue taking them at the usual time.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraceptionis available over the counter.
It is also called the morning-after pill.
Its used as soon as you have unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Benefits
The primary purpose of OCPs is to prevent pregnancy.
This is more common with progestin-only pills, but it can occur with combination pills.
Typically, generic options are less expensive than brand-name OCPs and often cost less than $10 per month.
Most insurance plans offer birth control pills for free.
If you dont have insurance, government programs also help withcostsfor those who qualify.
All combination pills require a prescription, while some minipills are available OTC.
However, you’re free to request a virtual telehealth visit through websites such as Planned Parenthood.
Twenty U.S. states allow pharmacists to prescribe birth control.
Summary
Oral contraceptives (OCP) are birth control pills known as hormonal contraceptives or the pill.
Their primary purpose is to prevent pregnancy, but they can also help with acne and period problems.
OCPs do not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The cost for birth control usually ranges from $0 to $50.
However, most insurance companies provide it for free.
Government programs, discount cards, and prescription discount plans may help if finances are a barrier.
A Word From Verywell
With so many birth control options, the choice can feel overwhelming.
Learning about each key in helps you make an informed decision.
Working with a healthcare provider can also help you choose which throw in best suits you.
They can also help treat acne or period-related problems.
They do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
When OCP birth control is taken perfectlyevery day at the same timeit is 99% effective.
With typical use (not always consistent or correct use), it is 93-96% effective.
In 20 of the U.S. states, pharmacists can prescribe OCPs.
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