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What is the Use of Birth Control Pills?

From managing painful periods to preventing unplanned pregnancy, birth control pills have changed the way women care for their reproductive health. While many associate these only with contraception, the pills actually support a wide range of medical needs. Understanding what birth control pills do and why these are prescribed can help people make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

  • Birth control pills are daily hormonal medications that help prevent pregnancy. These are available in two types: combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs) and progestin-only pills (POPs).

  • Birth control pills prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation. These mechanisms vary slightly in COCPs vs POPs.

  • Birth control pills have multiple medical uses beyond contraception, including managing health conditions like PCOS, irregular periods, acne, painful cramps, heavy bleeding, PMS, PMDD and endometriosis.

  • Choosing the right birth control pill depends on your body and health needs. Consulting a doctor is essential to determine which pill is safest and most effective for you, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

What are Birth Control Pills?

What is the Use of Birth Control Pills? Why are Birth Control Pills Used? What is the Birth Control Pill?
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The birth control pill is a hormonal medication taken daily to prevent pregnancy. It contains synthetic versions of the natural hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are produced by the female body and help regulate the menstrual cycle. The synthetic hormones mimic their natural function.

There are two main types of the birth control pill:

  • Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills (COCPs) – contain both estrogen and progestin (the synthetic version of progesterone). These are the most commonly used pills.

  • Progestin-Only Pills (POPs) – contain only progestin, and no estrogen. These are used by women who cannot take estrogen due to medical reasons or are breastfeeding.

Birth control pills should be taken at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. When taken exactly as prescribed, these pills are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Why are Birth Control Pills Used?

Birth control pills are used for more than just contraception. These are also tools that help manage a variety of hormonal and reproductive conditions. Some of these uses are explained below:

Preventing Pregnancy

What is the Use of Birth Control Pills? Why are Birth Control Pills Used? What is the Birth Control Pill?

Preventing pregnancy is the primary use of birth control pills. The two types of birth control pills work differently to achieve this.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): COCPs prevent pregnancy primarily by stopping ovulation. Ovulation is the phase when a mature egg is released from the ovary to be fertilised by sperm. If no egg is released, fertilisation cannot occur. The pills provide additional protection by thickening the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to pass through the cervix and reach the egg. These also thin the lining of the uterus, making it more difficult for an egg to implant, in case fertilisation has occurred.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): POPs primarily thicken the cervical mucus and thins the uterine lining. In some people, these prevent ovulation, but this effect is not guaranteed. Regardless, the pills are still just as effective as COCPs when taken correctly and consistently.

Managing Irregular Periods

Hormonal imbalance or certain health conditions can cause periods to become unpredictable. Since birth control pills are taken consistently and in a structured way, these help regulate hormone levels, thereby regulating periods and the menstrual cycle.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): Most COCPs are taken daily in 21+7 or 24+4 dosing regimens with 21 or 24 active pills (that contain hormones) and 7 or 4 inactive pills (that do not contain hormones) or no pills, respectively. During the inactive pills or the no-pill break, a period-like withdrawal bleeding occurs. Due to this structured pill schedule, a period usually happens at the scheduled time every month. In this way, COCPs help make the periods and menstrual cycle more regular and predictable.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): POPs are taken daily for 28 days. Most POPs are available in a 28-day dosing regimen with 28 active pills and no inactive pills or pill-free breaks. Some POPs are available in a 24+4 dosing regimen, with 24 active pills and 4 inactive pills. While POPs may also help regulate cycles for some women, these are more commonly associated with irregular bleeding, especially during the first few months. However, over time, some users experience fewer and lighter periods.

Reducing Period Flow

What is the Use of Birth Control Pills? Why are Birth Control Pills Used? What is the Birth Control Pill?
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Birth control pills are commonly prescribed for menorrhagia, a condition marked by excessive bleeding during periods, often accompanied by fatigue or low iron levels (also known as anaemia). Hormonal contraceptive methods help reduce the volume and duration of bleeding by stabilising hormone levels and thinning the inner lining of the uterus.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): Because these pills help hormone levels and reduce the buildup of the uterine lining, there is less tissue to shed during periods, which leads to lighter and shorter bleeding.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): POPs also help lessen the menstrual flow by thinning the uterine lining. In some women, POPs can even stop bleeding altogether over time. However, the effect varies by person to person.

Reducing Period Cramps

Painful periods, clinically called dysmenorrhea, are caused by excess prostaglandins, chemicals that make the uterus contract more intensely. These strong contractions can lead to cramping, back pain, and general discomfort.

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills (COCPs): By suppressing ovulation and lowering prostaglandin levels, and thinning the uterine lining, COCPs make uterine contractions less severe. This typically results in milder cramps or even pain-free periods for many women. These pills also regulate hormone fluctuations, which can further reduce pain.

Progestin-Only Pills (POPs): POPs can also help reduce cramping by thinning the uterine lining and reducing the amount of uterine muscle activity required to shed it. Although results vary, some women notice a marked decrease in period pain after consistent use.

Using birth control pills for dysmenorrhea or period cramps can be particularly helpful for teens and adults who experience cramps that interfere with daily activities, such as work, school, or sleep.

Controlling Acne

Acne is a common skin condition caused by the clogging of pores due to excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. In many people, especially during puberty or hormonal changes, acne is linked to increased levels of androgens (male hormones like testosterone that are also naturally present in women). These androgens stimulate sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more sebum (oil), which can block pores and cause pimples.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): COCPs help reduce acne by lowering androgen levels in the body. Estrogen in these pills increases the production of a protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds to free testosterone in the bloodstream and reduces its activity. As a result, the sebaceous glands produce less oil, leading to fewer breakouts over time. It may take several months of regular use to see visible improvement, but COCPs are a commonly recommended option for women with moderate to severe hormonal acne.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): Unlike COCPs, POPs do not contain estrogen and therefore do not have the same effect on testosterone levels. While some women may not experience worsened acne, POPs are generally not prescribed to treat acne, especially in those who are already prone to breakouts.

Managing PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Symptoms

What is the Use of Birth Control Pills? Why are Birth Control Pills Used? What is the Birth Control Pill?
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that often causes irregular periods, acne, excess facial or body hair, and ovarian cysts. These symptoms occur due to higher levels of androgens - male hormones that are present in all bodies but are elevated in people with PCOS.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): COCPs are a common treatment for managing PCOS symptoms. By regulating hormone levels, they help restore regular periods, reduce excess androgens, and improve symptoms like acne and unwanted hair growth.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): POPs are an alternative for people who cannot take estrogen. While they don't reduce androgen levels significantly, POPs can help manage menstrual irregularities by thinning the uterine lining and sometimes stopping periods altogether. They may be useful in reducing long-term risks related to infrequent menstruation, although they’re less effective than COCPs for treating PCOS symptoms like acne or excess hair growth.

Supporting Endometriosis Management

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus (also known as the endometrium) grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic organs. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes just like the inner uterine lining does - it thickens, it breaks down, and it bleeds during the cycle. Since it has nowhere to go, it leads to inflammation, intense period pain, heavy bleeding, and sometimes even fertility issues.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): COCPs help manage these symptoms by suppressing ovulation and stabilising hormone levels, which slows the growth of this tissue. They also thin the uterine lining and can reduce or even stop periods when used continuously, helping lessen both bleeding and pain over time.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): POPs can also be effective for managing endometriosis. They work by thinning the endometrial lining and reducing or stopping menstrual bleeding, though the extent of symptom relief may vary. POPs are often recommended for long-term management, especially for those who cannot take estrogen due to medical conditions.

While birth control pills do not cure endometriosis, they can significantly reduce discomfort and improve day-to-day life for many people dealing with this condition.

Easing PMS and PMDD Symptoms

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are conditions that affect many women in the days leading up to their period. PMS includes a range of emotional and physical symptoms like mood swings, bloating, fatigue, and irritability, etc. PMDD is a more severe form that can cause intense depression, anxiety, and emotional distress, significantly impacting daily functioning.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs): COCPs are often prescribed to help ease these symptoms. By stabilising hormonal fluctuations throughout the cycle, COCPs can reduce the intensity and frequency of both PMS and PMDD. Some formulations containing drospirenone, a type of progestin, are especially effective, as they have anti-androgenic properties and can improve mood-related symptoms.

Progestin-only pills (POPs): POPs may also offer symptom relief for some women, particularly those unable to take estrogen due to medical reasons. While POPs may not regulate mood as effectively as COCPs, they can still provide hormonal stability that helps reduce the overall severity of PMS in some users.

Although not a cure, birth control pills can be a helpful part of managing the emotional and physical challenges that come with PMS and PMDD.

Conclusion

Birth control pills are more than just a means to avoid pregnancy - these are a valuable part of everyday healthcare for many women. These can help make periods lighter, reduce pain, clear up acne, and support conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. Whether used for contraception, symptom relief, or long-term hormonal balance, birth control pills play a role in helping women feel more in control of their health and bodies.

Everyone's needs are different, and not every pill is right for every body. Choosing the right pill depends on your body and health needs. Consulting a doctor is essential to determine which pill is safest and most effective for you, especially if you have underlying health conditions.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Do birth control pills protect against STIs?

    No, birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You should use barrier methods to protect against infections.

  • Can I use birth control pills to skip my period?

    Yes, with certain COCP regimens, you can skip the inactive pills and start a new pack immediately to avoid periods. However, this should be done with medical consultation.

  • Can birth control pills help with PMS or PMDD?

    Yes, some people find relief from severe premenstrual symptoms, including mood swings and cramps, by using birth control pills because these regulate hormone levels throughout the cycle.

  • Can birth control pills be used to manage perimenopausal symptoms?

    In some cases, doctors may prescribe birth control pills to help regulate periods, reduce hot flashes, and stabilise hormones in perimenopausal women.

Important

This blog, including its text, images, and infographics, is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalized advice, always consult a doctor.

Further Reading

For more details on this or related topics, refer to the papers listed in references below, or check out the other blogs on our website dulycare.in.

References

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