Ep #15: How to Take (or Not Take) OCPs with Dr. Maria Shaker

We are continuing with our “How to…” series by delving into the world of Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs). OCPs, commonly known as birth control pills or simply “the pill,” are a form of hormonal contraception designed to prevent pregnancy. But that’s not the only thing OCPs are prescribed for. 

There are two primary types of OCPs:

1. Combination Pills: These OCPs contain two key hormones—estrogen and progestin. Combination pills work by suppressing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries), thickening cervical mucus to impede sperm movement, and altering the uterine lining to make it less receptive to a fertilized egg. Combination pills are available in various formulations, including monophasic (the same hormone dosage in each pill) and multiphasic (changing hormone dosages throughout the cycle).

1. Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills): As the name suggests, progestin-only pills contain only a synthetic form of the hormone progestin. These pills primarily work by thickening cervical mucus and altering the uterine lining, making it less suitable for implantation. Progestin-only pills are often recommended for women who cannot tolerate estrogen or have specific medical conditions that contraindicate estrogen use.

In the episode, Dr. Rachel Pope is joined by Dr. Maria Shaker, an OB/GYN expert in Contraception Management, Family Planning, Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Minority and Medically Vulnerable Populations, and Obesity in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is board-certified in Complex Family Planning. Together they discuss how to take OCPs not just for birth control but to also control bleeding or just not have a period. They are taken orally, typically on a daily basis, and contain synthetic hormones that mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones in a woman’s body.

Featured in this episode:

• Combined OCPs
• Breakthrough bleeding
• Birth control isn’t just for birth control
• Escape Ovulation
• History of Birth Control Pills by Dr. Rachel Pope

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