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Oral contraceptives, abbreviated OCPs, also known as birth control pills, are medications taken by mouth for the purpose of birth control. The introduction of the birth control pill ("the Pill") in 1960 revolutionized the options for contraception, sparking vibrant discussion in the scientific and social science literature and in the media. Much attention focused on issues of women's rights, including ethics and personal choice. But these medications also introduced new questions about risk.

Female

Two types of female oral contraceptive pill, taken once per day, are widely available:

• The combined oral contraceptive pill contains estrogen and a progestin; colloquially known as "the Pill".
• The progestogen-only pill, colloquially known as "minipill".

For perfect use it is 99% effective and typical use is 91% effective. Side effects of the pill include headache, dizziness, nausea, sore breasts, spotting, mood changes, acne, bloating, etc.

One pill offers the benefit of only having to be taken once a week:

• Ormeloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator

Emergency contraception pills ("morning after pills") are taken at the time of intercourse, or within a few days afterwards:

• Levonorgestrel, sold under the brand name Plan B
• Ulipristal acetate
• Mifepristone and misoprostol, when used in combination, are more than 95% effective during the first 50 days of pregnancy.

Male

• Male oral contraceptives are not available commercially, although several types are under research and development.

References

1. Lackie E, Fairchild A. The birth control pill, thromboembolic disease, science and the media: a historical review of the relationship. Contraception. 2016 Oct;94(4):295-302. doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2016.06.009. Epub 2016 Jun 22. PMID 27343747.

• Set index articles
• Hormonal contraception