We've been celebrating the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill, which got final approval from the FDA on June 23, 1960. The first combined hormone birth control pill changed the lives of women here and worldwide. The pill heralded modern contraception. It and other birth control methods developed subsequently made it possible for millions of women to safely and effectively decide if and when to have a child.

Practically overnight, it gave women freedoms that they had only dreamed about. With access to modern contraceptives, women can decide the size of their families. They can pursue an education. They can have careers outside the home. And they can enjoy their sexuality without being afraid of becoming pregnant when they don't want to be. All this adds up to much better health and improved well-being for women.

Getting back to the pill -- most people know that the pill is a highly popular, safe, and effective method of contraception. But many people do not know that is has many non-contraceptive health benefits. Many women, who do not need protection from unintended pregnancy, use the pill specifically for some of these benefits.

Women also use the pill to reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, bone thinning, and acne. Pill users have decreased chances of ectopic pregnancy and serious infections of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus - pelvic inflammatory disease. And the pill can alleviate premenstrual symptoms, such as depression and headaches. Women who don't like menstruating at all can use the pill to keep it from happening for months and years at a time.

Doctors prescribe the pill to relieve symptoms of non-menstrual uterine bleeding, certain kinds of recurring ovarian cysts, premenstrual syndrome, the more severe premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and the absence of menses due to hyper-athleticism or eating disorders.

Last but not least, certain brands of the pill, taken in increased doses, can provide emergency contraception, reducing the risk of unintended pregnancy if started within five days after unprotected intercourse.

While no method of birth control is perfect for all women, the pill has proven to be extremely versatile. Importantly, it has led to development of other birth control methods - the patch, the ring, the implant, the injection, and the hormonal IUD. Today's women have options that may meet their needs even better than the pill. Celebration of the pill is really a celebration of modern contraceptives. So happy birthday to the birth control pill, an old friend who helps many of us better enjoy life.

Until next time, here's to your sexual health,

Vanessa

Vanessa Cullins, MD, MPH, MBA, is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and vice president for medical affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America.