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Rising Danger of Contraceptive Pills: Are You Taking i-Pill Frequently? Stop Now! It Could Harm Your Health — WHO Report Inside
Are You Taking i-Pill Frequently? Stop Now! It Could Harm Your Health
New Delhi. The use of contraceptive pills to avoid unwanted pregnancies is rapidly increasing across India. However, this rise has also brought forth serious health concerns for women. Due to lack of awareness, many women across the country are using contraceptive pills incorrectly, which has now become a matter of concern. In this article, we explore how misuse of contraceptive pills can harm women’s health and what possible solutions exist.
Regular Contraceptive Pills
Contraceptive pills are a form of birth control that, when taken daily, are up to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. These pills contain hormones that regulate menstruation and reduce PMS symptoms. According to Dr. Anju Agarwal, Head of Department and gynecologist at Queen Mary Hospital, Lucknow, regular contraceptive pills (like Mala-N or other combination pills) are safe and effective if taken under a doctor’s supervision and on a regular basis. They not only prevent pregnancy but also help maintain a regular menstrual cycle.
Benefits of Regular Contraceptive Pills:
Protection from unwanted pregnancies
Regulates menstrual cycle
Compensates for iron deficiency (some pills include iron supplements)
Reduces risk of ovarian and uterine cancer
i-Pill: Excessive Use Can Be Dangerous
A common misconception is that the i-Pill can be taken like regular pills. But as per Dr. Anju, the i-Pill is an emergency contraceptive, to be used only in cases of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Health Risks of Frequent i-Pill Usage:
Hormonal imbalance
Irregular periods
Impaired fertility
Depression, mood swings, and mental stress
Contraceptive Use in India
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 2019–2021, about 66.7% of married women in India use some form of contraception, but only 6.5% use oral contraceptive pills regularly. While awareness is higher in urban areas, misuse of emergency pills is growing in rural India. Additionally, nearly 22% of women still rely on traditional methods like the calendar method.
i-Pill Usage in India
There are no concrete figures on the exact number of i-Pill users in India. But between 2019 and 2021, over half of Indian women were unaware of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), and less than 1% had ever used one.
i-Pill Market in India
The Indian market for i-Pill (emergency contraceptive pill) is relatively stable, especially among online pharmacies. In local pharmacies, the pill is available for ₹75–90, while online prices vary between ₹80–110, often with discounts.
What Are the Other Safer Alternatives?
According to Dr. Agarwal, several safe and effective contraceptive alternatives are available besides pills:
Copper-T (IUD): Effective for 5 to 10 years; 99% effectiveness
Depo-Provera Injection: Taken every 3 months; 94% effective
Condoms: Also protect against STDs; 85% effective
Sterilization: Permanent method; 99% effective
Contraceptive Implants: Effective for 3 to 5 years; up to 99.5% effectiveness
Need for Change in Abortion Laws
Changing abortion laws is critical for ensuring women’s reproductive health and safety. Unsafe abortions pose serious risks, and legal reforms can make safe abortion services accessible.
When Is Abortion Legal in India?
If the fetus has a serious defect
If the pregnancy endangers the woman’s health
In cases of rape
If pregnancy occurred due to contraceptive failure
Is Abortion Safe for Women?
If abortion is performed timely and under medical supervision, it is completely safe. However, over 50% of Indian women still opt for illegal or untrained abortion providers, significantly increasing health risks.
Lack of Awareness Among Women
In India, women often lack access to open and accurate sexual and reproductive health information, leading to uninformed decisions.
Government Initiatives
Under Mission Parivar Vikas, contraceptive distribution must be strengthened
Free Copper-T and pills should be provided at health centers
ASHA workers must educate rural women on reproductive health and safe contraceptive practices
Why Is Doctor’s Advice Essential?
Every woman’s body, medical history, and hormonal profile is different. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor before choosing any contraceptive.
Correct Information is Key to a Safe Future
Contraceptive pills empower women to take control of their lives and reproductive choices—but they must be used responsibly and under medical supervision.
Shivani
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