Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP | Last Updated June 12, 2026 What’s the best birth control pill? With hundreds of different brands and formulations available, it makes sense that so many women feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to put down the struggle because finding the right birth control doesn’t

Medical review by: Andrea Eisenberg, MD Summary: How Does Smoking or Vaping Interact With Contraceptives? When you smoke and take birth control pills, the combination can be hazardous for women over the age of 35. It increases the chance of developing serious health issues like: It can also affect the way

Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP Along with aging comes a slew of health concerns. Am I getting enough calcium and vitamin D to keep my bones intact? What can I do to lower my cholesterol? How long can I safely continue taking birth control pills? Women may have

Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DABOM Summary: Taking more than one birth control pill on the same day isn’t usually cause for concern Birth control pills are a reliable and effective way to lower your pregnancy risk, but like all medications, they should be taken as directed for

Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DABOM Summary: Learn how to keep birth control pills effective as long as possible Birth control pills are commonly used to prevent pregnancy by regulating hormones in the body—but like all medications, they are only effective when stored and used properly. Knowing the shelf

Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DABOM Summary: Birth control pills help prevent pregnancy by regulating hormones in the body When taken correctly, birth control pills help prevent pregnancy by regulating hormones in the body. However, this protection relies on consistency, and missing a pill can interfere with its effectiveness.

Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM Summary: Learn more about Xulane® patches and how they work Xulane® is a type of birth control patch containing progestin and estrogen. Unlike oral medications with these hormones, Xulane® consistently releases the medication into your bloodstream through the skin over time. Learn more

Medical Review by DeAnna McGarity MD Summary Birth control can be flexible NuvaRing® is a birth control solution that can provide you with a reliable and convenient way to prevent unwanted pregnancy if it’s right for you. NuvaRing® is a small, flexible ring that frees you from the daily hassle

Medical Review by DeAnna McGarity MD  Summary: What is Errin®? Errin® is a birth control pill that contains only progestin, as opposed to combination birth control pills that contain progestin and estrogen. Progestin is a female hormone that helps prevent your ovaries from releasing eggs while changing the lining of your uterus