Birth Control Pills in India: A Complete Guide for Women

Contraceptives are drugs and devices used to prevent pregnancy. Of all the methods of contraception, the most common is the use of birth control pills, also known as contraceptive pills. Having this safe and easy means to prevent unwanted pregnancy has made it possible for women to take charge of their bodies and get pregnant only when they are 100% ready. In this blog post, we will discuss in detail about birth control pills and reveal the names of some of the best birth control pills in India.

What are Birth Control Pills?

Birth control pills fall in the category of oral contraceptives. These are a safe and effective way to avoid pregnancy in sexually active females. Birth control pills contain synthetic hormones (oestrogen and progestin) that impact the hormonal environment in the body to prevent conception.

These pills must be taken regularly and on time to achieve maximum protection. While contraceptive pills do not come in the way of sexual intercourse, they do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections. For this reason, one must still use a condom even when they are on birth control pills.

Types of Birth Control Pills Available

There are two main types of birth control pills:

Combined Hormonal Contraceptives

These pills contain a combination of two hormones—oestrogen and progestin. Usually, ethinyl estradiol (an oestrogen) is combined with a progestin like levonorgestrel or drospirenone. The strength of these hormones may vary between products of different brands. Combined oral contraceptives are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used regularly.

Progestin-Only Contraceptives

These pills are also called mini pills and only contain the hormone progestin. One must take them at a fixed time daily. Any delay can reduce the effectiveness of this medication, but timely consumption can offer around 99% protection from unwanted pregnancy. Progestin-only pills are safe for breastfeeding women.

How Do Birth Control Pills Work?

The synthetic hormones present in birth control pills prevent pregnancy in multiple ways. Oestrogen suppresses the activity of follicle-stimulating hormone, which is responsible for triggering the formation of ovarian follicles and the release of a mature egg. By hindering the process of ovulation during a menstrual cycle and subsequent fertilisation, oestrogen prevents a possible pregnancy.

Progestin, on the other hand, works by thickening the cervical mucus, making it tough for the sperm to fertilise the egg. Furthermore, it thins the endometrium, the uterine lining necessary for the implantation of a fertilised egg inside the uterus.

List of Birth Control Pills in India

In this section, you will find birth control pills names and prices in India. Many brands manufacture contraceptive pills that vary in content and cost. Take a look!

Do Birth Control Pills Have Any Side Effects?

Like with any medication, the use of contraceptive pills may also lead to a few side effects. These include:

• Nausea
• Stomach upset
• Changes in periods
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Spotting
• Low sex drive

Some people may also gain weight or notice a rise in their blood pressure after taking birth control pills regularly. Normally, mild side effects get better in a week or so after starting the pills. However, if you notice any concerning side effects, get in touch with your doctor.

Birth control pills are not suggested for women who smoke and are over 35 years old, as they increase their risk of stroke and heart attack.

How to Get Birth Control Pills in India?

Birth control pills can be easily procured in India. The best way to get these pills is to reach out to your doctor. They can prescribe you pills based on your age, medical history, lifestyle, menstrual symptoms, etc. They will also guide you on how to take them safely.

The next option is to purchase birth control pills online or from your local pharmacies. Online pharmacies like Dawaa Dost offer these pills at affordable prices and even deliver them to your doorstep.

Tips to Choose a Birth Control Pill for Yourself

Know the types

Understand the different types of birth control pills available. Progestin-only pills are better suited for breastfeeding women, but taking them in high doses could worsen acne woes and risk of blood clots. Similarly, combined pills containing oestrogen may not work for everyone, as they may also increase the chances of blood clots in some people.

Evaluate your health and lifestyle

Tell your doctor about your medical conditions, more so if you have hypertension or are at risk of developing blood clots. They may suggest the most suitable pill for you. In addition, if you have a busy lifestyle, choosing combination pills that do not have a very stringent timeline may be better suited for your needs.

Look for added benefits

As some pills are also helpful in addressing other health concerns like PCOS, acne, or irregular periods, discuss with your doctor if you can find one that aligns with your other needs.

Look at the cost

As birth control pills must be taken regularly, pay heed to the cost of pills. Birth control pills prices range from a few rupees to a few hundred. Generic versions are usually cheaper and available in India.

A Word of Caution: Just because a particular birth control pill works well for any of your friends or family does not mean it will be the same for you. Before blindly buying any birth control pill suggested by someone, you must discuss it with your doctor. Only when they give you the go-ahead can you start with the medication.

How To Avoid Pregnancy Besides Using Contraceptive Pills?

Contraceptive pills are just one way of preventing pregnancy. If you think pills are not something you are comfortable having on an everyday basis, you may explore the following options for avoiding pregnancy:

Intrauterine devices: These devices, like the copper IUD, release copper inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Barrier methods: Condoms (both for males and females), cervical caps, and diaphragms can help in avoiding pregnancy.

Contraceptive injection: An injection containing progestogen is administered to prevent pregnancy by preventing the release of egg in a woman’s body.

Contraceptive patch: A patch contains the hormones progestin and oestrogen. It is applied to the skin to release the hormones gradually into the bloodstream so it can stop any possible pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Birth control pills in India are one of the safest and preferred ways of preventing pregnancy. Many brands have come up with these pills in different price ranges. The generic versions, which are available at pocket-friendly prices, are also as effective as their costlier alternatives, as they contain similar hormone composition. 

No matter which product you choose, make sure to talk to your doctor before beginning the routine. This will make birth control safe and easy for you and your partner.

FAQs

What are some daily contraceptive pills in India?

A few 21 days contraceptive pills names in India that must be consumed daily are I Pill daily oral contraceptive pill, Ovipauz L tablet, and Unwanted 21 Days tablet.

Are birth control pills safe?

Yes, birth control pills are a safe option for most women. Check with your doctor to know if they are safe for you.

Which are some of the best contraceptive pills in India?

I Pill daily oral contraceptive pills, Unwanted 21 days tablets, and Mala D are some popular pills in India.

Who cannot take contraceptive pills?

Women with certain health conditions, such as a history of blood clots, heart disease, or certain cancers, cannot take contraceptive pills. Additionally, smokers over 35 and those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or migraines with aura should also avoid them.

What is 100% birth control?

Not having sex is the only way to have 100% birth control.

Looking for affordable medicines and healthcare products but don't know where to buy them? Check out our Dawaa Dost website, where we make quality and affordable medicines accessible to all!

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking oral birth control pills and for the diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.