oral contraception
Definition
Noun: 1. A method of preventing pregnancy: This refers specifically to contraception achieved through the regular ingestion of oral contraceptive pills, which contain hormones to prevent ovulation, fertilization, or implantation.
Usage
- General Use: The term is used in medical, public health, and everyday contexts to describe this specific form of birth control.
- Example: "The doctor discussed the benefits and risks of with her patient."
Examples
- Noun:
- Oral contraception is one of the most common forms of reversible birth control.
- "She has been using oral contraception for five years."
- "Access to oral contraception has improved women's reproductive autonomy."
Advanced Usage
- In Medical/Clinical Context: The term is used precisely to distinguish this method from other contraceptive techniques like intrauterine devices (IUDs) or barrier methods.
- The study compared the efficacy rates of oral contraception versus contraceptive implants.
- In Sociological/Demographic Context: Often discussed in terms of availability, impact on family planning, and public policy.
- The widespread use of oral contraception in the 1960s contributed to significant social changes.
Variants and Related Words
- Oral contraceptive (n): The pill itself. Often used in the plural (oral contraceptives).
- She was prescribed a new brand of oral contraceptive.
- The Pill (n, informal): A common informal term for oral contraceptives.
- She's been on the Pill since college.
Synonyms
- Birth control pills: A direct synonym.
- The Pill: An informal synonym.
- Hormonal contraception: A broader category that includes oral contraception as one method.
Related Phrases
- To be on the pill: An idiomatic phrase meaning to use oral contraception.
- She is on the pill to regulate her menstrual cycle.
- To take oral contraceptives: The action phrase associated with the method.
- It is important to take oral contraceptives at the same time every day.
Noun
-
contraception achieved by taking oral contraceptive pills
