5.4  Use of oral contraceptives

  • What makes using oral contraceptives attractive to many women?

  • Pills are a particularly attractive contraceptive option for women who like to be in control of their method, and can take a daily dose in a consistent way.

Oral contraceptives are particularly popular with young, sexually active, nulliparous women (those who have never given birth), and those who are not at risk from STIs. Lactating and non-lactating mothers can also use oral contraceptives. They can be used in the post-abortion and post-partum period, and they are preferred by women who desire a fast return to fertility when stopping birth control. Finally, they are known to reduce pre-menstrual pain.

5.3.2  Progesterone-only oral contraceptive or mini-pill

5.4.1  How to use COCs