1. There are many oral contraceptive pills available in the market. How do I decide which one is best suited for me? Is there any test?

If you are using oral contraception for the first time, it is always better to consult your gynaecologist. Go for a contraceptive counselling. In this session, your gynaecologist will tell you about options available and which one is best suited for you, depending on your medical history.

In most cases, a low dose estrogen pill is recommended for first timers. The dosage can be increased after consulting your gynaecologist.

Click here to know what happens in a counselling session for contraception.

2. Can I use oral contraceptive pills if I have diabetes or cancer?

Avoid high dosage contraceptive pills if you have diabetes. However, you can opt for a low dosage estrogen pill.

If you have cancer, use a low dosage OCP. However, if you have a family history of breast cancer or cancers of reproductive organs like uterus or cervix, consult your gynaecologist before using any.

However, in case of cancer, use OCPs with caution.

Also Read: Morning-After Pill

3. Can an OCP make me gain weight?

It is normal to gain weight when you are on OCPs. This has more to do with hormonal changes that your body is adjusting to.

Under normal circumstances, you can gain around two to three kilos over six months. Anything over five kilos, or a rapid weight gain within a month could be an indication that the pill is not suiting you. In such a scenario, stop using the pill and consult your gynaecologist immediately.

Also Read: Contraception - 5 Things You Must Know

4. Is it possible to get pregnant despite taking the pill everyday?

If you were to use the pill consistently, there is a 99% chance that the pill will prevent pregnancy. However, remember that there is always that 1% chance of getting pregnant.

Also, missing a pill or taking it few hours later can decrease its effectiveness. Moreover, certain antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive. So make sure your gynaecologist knows about all the other medicines you are taking.

5. Can birth control pills make me miss my menstrual cycle or change the date of my cycle?

There is a possibility that you may miss one or two menstrual cycles while taking the pills for the first time. However, over a period of time your menses will become regular to the usual 28 days cycle.

Also Read: Side Effects of OCP

It is possible to use contraceptive pills to alter the date of your period. However, do so only after consulting your gynaecologist.