Combined oral contraceptive pill
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill
The Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COCP), often referred to as the birth control pill or colloquially as "the pill", is a type of birth control that is designed to be taken orally by women. It includes a combination of an estrogen (ethinylestradiol) and a progestogen (progestin).
Pronunciation
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill: /kəˈmaɪnd ˈɔːrəl kənˈtræsɪptɪv pɪl/
Etymology
The term "Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill" is derived from its method of use (oral administration), its function (contraception), and its formulation (a combination of hormones).
Usage
The COCP is used to prevent pregnancy. It works by stopping ovulation, altering the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to go through the cervix and thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
Related Terms
- Estrogen: One of the hormones used in the COCP. It is primarily responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.
- Progestogen: Another hormone used in the COCP. It is important for regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy.
- Ovulation: The release of eggs from the ovaries. The COCP works by preventing this process.
- Cervical Mucus: A type of mucus produced by the cervix. The COCP alters this mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
- Uterus: The organ in which a fertilized egg implants and grows during pregnancy. The COCP thins the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Combined oral contraceptive pill
- Wikipedia's article - Combined oral contraceptive pill
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