Sex Toys for Men, Women and Couples

Description
Combined oral contraceptives are birth control pills that contain two hormones, an estrogen and a progestin. The estrogen prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation (release of an egg), while the progestin makes the lining of the uterus thinner, preventing fertilization.

How It Works
Combined oral contraceptives must be taken at the same time every day. You cannot miss pills or you risk pregnancy. You must see a health-care professional to get the Pill, and it's advisable to use a second form of contraception for the first seven days of your first pack of pills. During the fourth week, you will either take an iron pill that is a different color, or no pill at all. During this time, you will experience a menstrual period.

Should You Use It?
Combined oral contraceptives are one of the most effective methods of contraception, but do not protect against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Also, some women have experienced unpleasant reactions to the Pill. However, this form of contraception has numerous perks, including improvement of acne, reduced blood flow during menstruation, and less painful cramps. If you have a monogamous partner who has tested negative for STIs, you might want to try the Pill.

Effectiveness
Among typical couples who use combined pills, about 5% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. If pills are used consistently and correctly, just one in 1,000 women will become pregnant.

STI Protection
Combined oral contraceptives do not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Advantages

• Can decrease the risk for ovarian and endometrial cancer.
• Can lower the risk of developing benign breast masses and ovarian cysts.
• Usually decreases menstrual cramping and pain.
• Reduces menstrual blood loss and the risk for anemia.
• Can reduce acne in women taking combined birth control pills.
• Some clinicians will provide three to six months of pills without a pelvic exam.

Disadvantages

• You have to remember to take one pill every day.
• Pills require a prescription and can be expensive.
• You must use a backup contraceptive for two weeks if you have missed pills and are uncertain of the number that you have missed.
• May promote growth of breast cancer but probably does not cause breast cancer.
• May lead to higher rates of one type of cervical cancer, adenocarcinoma of the cervix.
• Side effects can include dizziness, blood clots, nausea, spotting, headaches, change in mood or weight, depression, heart attack or stroke, or decreased enjoyment of sex.
• Pills do not protect you from HIV or other infections.

Where to Buy It
In the United States, combined pills require a prescription. You can get pills from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department or family planning clinic.

Follow Up
Many women feel they cannot take combined oral contraceptives because of their bodies' response to the Pill. If you have tried the Pill and don't like it, you might try another brand or dosage, or try the mini-pill.

Contraception Overview