Alternative Names for Birth Control Pills (BCP)
Birth control pills (BCP) are also called oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), combined oral contraceptives (COCs) when they contain both estrogen and progestin, or progestin-only pills (POPs) when they contain only progestin. 1, 2, 3
Common Terminology
The following terms are used interchangeably in medical practice and literature:
- Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) - The most widely used general term for all types of birth control pills 2, 3
- Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) - Specifically refers to pills containing both estrogen (typically ethinyl estradiol) and progestin 1, 3
- Progestin-only pills (POPs) - Also called "mini-pills," these contain only progestin without estrogen 1
- "The pill" - Common colloquial term used in patient education and general conversation 1
Specific Formulation Types
Within the broader category of oral contraceptives, additional descriptive terms include:
- Monophasic pills - Each active tablet contains the same dose of hormones 1
- Phasic regimens - Including biphasic and triphasic formulations with varying hormone doses throughout the cycle 1
- Extended-cycle or continuous regimens - Formulations designed to reduce or eliminate menstrual periods 1, 4
- Low-dose pills - Typically containing ≤35 μg ethinyl estradiol 1
Historical Context
The first oral contraceptive approved by the FDA was called Enovid, which contained mestranol and norethisterone 1, 4. Modern formulations have evolved significantly, with lower estrogen doses and various progestin generations to minimize side effects while maintaining efficacy 1, 4.