What is it?
Pills that contain synthetic hormones similar to those that your body naturally produces during your monthly cycle (Estrogen and Progestin). 

How does it work?
The hormones in the Pill prevent pregnancy primarily by inhibiting ovulation.  In addition, the Pill prevents pregnancy by thickening your cervical mucus and making it difficult for the sperm to pass through the cervix to fertilize an egg, affecting the lining of the uterus and immobilizing sperm.

How do I use it?
Swallow one Pill daily at about the same time each day.  However, unlike the monthly pill, Seasonale has active pills for 3 months instead of 3 weeks.  Thus, it extends the time between your scheduled periods so that you have 4 scheduled periods per year (or one for every season)

How reliable is it?
When used correctly - taken every day without missing a pill - Seasonale is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Are there any hormones involved?
Yes

Does this type of contraceptive offer protection from STI/STDs?
No

What are the advantages?
Seasonale allows for spontaneity - no interruptions.  It is easy to use and highly effective.  Seasonale also reduces the number of periods you have per year.

What are the disadvantages?
One must take Seasonale every day for it to be effective.  There are also various side effects that may occur (see below).  While you get the convenience of 4 periods a year, you are also more likely to have spotting and breakthrough bleeding (which varies from slight spotting to a flow much like a regular period) than with a monthly birth control pill. This is common and should decrease over time.

Are there any side effects or health risks that I should discuss with my healthcare provider?
Seasonale may cause nausea, breast tenderness, weight gain or loss, bleeding between periods, water retention, increased blood pressure, mood changes and headaches.

Where do I get it?
Prescription and Clinic Visit required.

How often do I need to use it?
Pills must be taken every day around the same time to increase effectiveness.

Reference: Information obtained from Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) and SmarterSex. Image obtained from SmarterSex.