"The pill" refers to a contraceptive method that typically comes in the form of a small, round tablet or capsule. It contains hormones (usually a combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin alone) that prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the lining of the uterus. This oral contraceptive is taken daily and is one of the most popular and effective forms of birth control for women.