- Modern birth control pills are MUCH milder versions of their predecessors with few or none of the early reported side effects - don't let another woman's horror story keep you from trying the Pill if you are sexually active.
- Taking the Pill is a personal choice, it is about sexual responsibility NOT sexual availability - taking the Pill does not mean you are a "slut", "sleaze", "easy" or "wanting it".
- The risks involved in taking the Pill are NO GREATER than the risks associated with pregnancy and child birth, and there are very real benefits in taking the Pill.
- Ortho-Tricyclene, one of the many birth control pills available, is also approved as an acne medication with sucess in controlling moderate to high, hormonally influenced breakouts.
- If you smoke, the risks associated with taking the Pill are increased - yet another reason NOT to smoke!
- Although it is less common, it is still possible to get pregnant within 1 month of going off the Pill.
- Despite advice you may have heard you DO NOT need to take a break from the Pill.
- When used CORRECTLY the Pill is 95% - 99% effective.
- When used INCORRECTLY the Pill is TOTALLY ineffective.
- The Pill can NOT protect you against ANY STDs or HIV/AIDS.
Information Sheet on the Birth Contol Pill10 Things You Need to Know About the Birth Contol Pill
From Tina Kells, for About.com
Explore Teen Advice
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Your last name may reveal a compelling story about your family history. More >
Is someone in your life passive aggressive? Find out why and how to handle it. More >
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.