The birth control pill has come a long way since it first emerged in 1960. Here is a look at its transformation.
 1. Oestrogen levels
THEN: The first pill, Enovid, has 50 micrograms of oestrogen per pill.
NOW: The latest available pill in Singapore, Yaz (right), has only 20 micrograms of oestrogen per pill.
2. Side effects
THEN: Users reported side effects such as nausea, headaches, breast tenderness and weight gain. Searle, the company which launched the first pill, Enovid, in the United States, also received 132 reports of blood clots. Claims that they were caused by the pill were later dismissed.
Later in 1970, a study published in the Journal Of Reproductive Medicine on long-term users revealed side effects such as inflammation of the cervix and vaginal discharge.
NOW: The lower dosage of hormones has alleviated side effects.
 3. Benefits
THEN: The pill was meant only for preventing pregnancy.
NOW: Today’s pill comes with a package of health benefits. For instance, it can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce heavy periods and menstrual cramps, and clear up acne.
Recent research studies have also discovered that the pill can be a preventive tool against endometrial and ovarian cancer.
4. Perception
THEN: The pill was blamed for encouraging immoral behaviour like casual sex and promiscuity. For some, it was deemed to be against nature and its use was frowned on.
NOW: The pill helps to promote a better quality of life not only for women, but also their families. For one, couples will not have to be financially stretched from having to raise many children.
Ref: V10
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