"The pill gave me nausea and stomach cramps. But I couldn't stop because of an inconsiderate spouse," explains Nirmila. She finally walked out of that marriage before her health got worse. She's happily remarried since but has been having problems conceiving.

OCPs may be a convenient, easy way of birth control. But like Nirmila, they could have serious side effects too.

Before you continue with OCPs or decide to take one… it's best you get your facts straight.

How do OCPs work?

Oral Contraceptive Pills are hormone supplements that trick the pituitary gland into believing you're pregnant, which stops the ovaries from releasing the egg each month (ovulation).

They have a 99 per cent success rate if you take it at the same time, everyday.

How do I start using OCPs?

Before you start with an OCP, visit your gynaecologist for a through check-up.

OCPs come in packs of 21 and 28 (everyday pack) pills. Start on the first day of your periods and take one pill everyday for the next 21 or 28 days - depending on the pack you buy.

When taking the 21-pills pack, remember to stop the pills after 21 days. Wait till you're done with your periods, before you start with a new pack.

If you're the forgetful kind, then the 28-pills pack is for you. It contains 21 hormone pills and 7 placebos. You need to them continuously and don't have to remember when to stop.

When do I take the pill?

Always take the pill on a full stomach - ideally, after breakfast or lunch.

What if I miss a pill or forget to take it on time?

Everyone misses a pill or two sometimes. If you remember the pill after your usual time, simply take it as soon as possible. The next day, take it at the same time that you usually do.

If you miss than two pills in a row, continue with them as usual. However, use an external contraceptive like a condom, for a few days after that.