Article / Updated 03-26-2016
The birth control pill, or "the Pill," is a very effective method of birth control — almost as effective as sterilization, in fact — assuming full compliance. Basically, the active ingredients in the Pill are the same hormones that a woman’s body uses to regulate her menstrual cycle. Today’s lower doses greatly reduce the side effects, and do a great job of preventing unintended pregnancy if you remember to take the Pill regularly.