Birth control pills, or oral contraceptives, prevent pregnancy by using hormones (either a combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin alone) to stop ovulation and make fertilization less likely.

HOW THEY WORK:

1. Preventing Ovulation: The hormones stop the ovaries from releasing an egg.

2. Thickening Cervical Mucus: This makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg.

3. Thinning Uterine Lining: It reduces the chances of a fertilized egg attaching and growing.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: 

Birth control pills are safe and effective but can have side effects, especially when starting out:

Common: Nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, mood changes, spotting, decreased libido, and possible weight changes.

Rare: Risk of blood clots, especially for smokers or people with other health factors.

IT IS CRUCIAL TO CONSULT A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE BASED ON PERSONAL HEALTH FACTORS.