Birth Control Pills Directory
"The Pill" is an oral contraceptive method that prevents pregnancy. There are many types of birth control pill options: Some can help with PMDD and menstrual cramps, some are safe for breastfeeding mothers, and some only allow you to have a few periods a year. You should talk to your doctor to decide which type is best for you. Birth control pills can have side effects such as weight gain and nausea, so you should discuss these with your doctor as well. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how birth control pills work, what types are available, and what the side effects are.
Medical Reference
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The Right Ways to Take Your Birth Control Pills
Hormonal birth control pills almost always work to prevent pregnancies -- as long as you don’t skip doses and take them on schedule. Here’s how to do that.
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Forgot to Take Your Birth Control Pills?
Forget to take your birth control pills? Find out from WebMD.
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Medicines That Interfere With Birth Control Pills
Find out which drugs may lessen the effectiveness of the pill and other types of hormonal birth control.
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Birth Control Pills
An overview of birth control pills and how they're used to prevent pregnancy.
Features
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No-Period Birth Control
Are no-period birth control pills safe?
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Birth Control Pills and Weight
Will going on birth control pills make you gain weight?
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The New No-Period, No-PMS Birth Control Pills
With new continuous birth control pills, women can end their menstrual periods and reduce PMS symptoms.
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A Pill Is Born
From a molecule that looks promising, to a new medicine on your shelf – the process typically takes years and involves researchers, drug companies, government bureaucrats, human subjects … and a few good rats.
Video
Slideshows & Images
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Slideshow: Your Birth Control Options
See the mechanics, side effects, and failure rates for common birth control methods in this illustrated slideshow. Withdrawal, hormones, the IUD, and many more are explained with pictures.
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Slideshow: Surprising Reasons You're Gaining Weight
What are some possible causes of sudden weight gain, when there are no changes in diet or exercise? Learn about the effects of certain medications, some medical conditions, sleep issues, and more.
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Slideshow: The History of Birth Control
They put what where? From chastity belts to soda pop, women used some downright bizarre contraception through the ages.