Ovral is a combination oral contraceptive pill that is commonly prescribed to women to prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones, ethinyl estradiol and norgestrel, which work together to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and thin the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

It is important to take Ovral exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure its effectiveness. Typically, the pill is taken once a day at the same time each day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break where no pills are taken. During this break, you will likely experience withdrawal bleeding similar to a period.

While Ovral is highly effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is important to use additional forms of protection, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of STIs.

Like all medications, Ovral may cause side effects in some women. Common side effects include nausea, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual bleeding. These side effects typically improve after the first few months of use. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is important to contact your healthcare provider.

Before starting Ovral, it is important to discuss your medical history and any other medications you are taking with your healthcare provider. Certain medical conditions and medications may interact with Ovral, reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Overall, Ovral is a safe and effective form of contraception for many women. If you have any questions or concerns about Ovral, do not hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider.