The birth control pill is highly effective when used correctly, with approximately 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy. This means that with perfect use, fewer than 1 in 100 women will get pregnant in a year. However, with typical use, which accounts for occasional missed pills or other user errors, the effectiveness drops to about 91-93%, meaning about 7 to 9 women out of 100 may get pregnant each year. The pill works by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Its effectiveness can be reduced by factors such as missing pills, vomiting, severe diarrhea, or certain medications. Despite these considerations, the pill remains one of the most commonly used and effective forms of reversible contraception.
Effectiveness Details
- Perfect use effectiveness: ~99%
- Typical use effectiveness: ~91-93%
- Factors reducing effectiveness: missed pills, vomiting within 3 hours of pill, severe diarrhea, interacting medications
How it Works
- Prevents ovulation (no egg release)
- Thickens cervical mucus to block sperm entry
Additional Benefits
- Makes periods lighter, more regular, and less painful
- Can improve acne and reduce risk of certain cancers (uterus, ovaries, bowel)
- Fertility returns quickly after stopping the pill
This summary provides a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness and use of birth control pills.
