Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) — commonly called birth control pills — are medications taken by mouth to prevent pregnancy. They contain synthetic versions of female hormones that regulate ovulation and the menstrual cycle. There are two main types: Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills (COCs) Contain estrogen + progestin Progestin-Only Pills (POPs) (also called the “mini-pill”) Contain progestin only 🧬 How Oral Contraceptive Pills Work They prevent pregnancy by: Stopping ovulation (no egg is released) Thickening cervical mucus (makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus) Thinning the uterine lining (reduces chances of implantation) ✅ Benefits of Oral Contraceptive Pills 1. Highly Effective Over 99% effective with perfect use About 91–93% effective with typical use 2. Regulates Menstrual Cycle More predictable periods Less irregular bleeding 3. Reduces Menstrual Pain (Dysmenorrhea) Lighter and less painful periods 4. Reduces Heavy Bleeding Helpful for anemia caused by heavy periods 5. Improves Acne Some combined pills improve hormonal acne 6. Reduces Risk of Certain Cancers Lower risk of: Ovarian cancer Endometrial (uterine) cancer 7. Helps with Hormonal Conditions Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Endometriosis Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)