Birth control pills or contraceptive pills are today used by women to prevent unwanted pregnancy. These pills are generally taken orally and are widely available in the market at very cheap rates.

Progesterone and estrogen are the two hormones which prepares the female body for pregnancy. The rise in the estrogen level is responsible for the release of the egg from the ovaries-the process is called ovulation.  The estrogen level starts increasing during the beginning of the menstrual cycle and within 14 days the egg releases from the ovaries. Once the ovulation has taken place, the level of progesterone starts increasing and in seven days endometrium becomes ready for a fertilized egg which results in conception.

Birth control pills do not allow the level of estrogen and progesterone to rise, this prevents the ovulation to take place and thus there is no possibility of any pregnancy.

There are three different types of birth control pills.  Progestin-only pills (POP) contain only progesterone and no estrogen.  Breast feeding women and those allergic to estrogen can go for it.

Combination pills are the other variety, it contains both the estrogen and the progesterone-this is widely used by women. The pills which contain equal amount of progesterone and estrogen are called monophasic pills whereas pills which contain different amounts of estrogen and progesterone are called multiphasic pills.

A not so very common contraceptive pills called emergency contraceptive pills are taken to prevent pregnancy especially in case of unprotected sex.

Birth control pills do have certain side effects; if you have been suffering from diseases like blood clotting, breast cancer, endometrial cancer then you got to consult your doctor.

So before opting for any pills consult your doctor; if you want to delay your motherhood then these birth control pills are meant for you.