Modern oral contraceptives practically do not affect the work of the hormonal system of a woman. They have high efficiency, preventing unwanted conception. However, it is important to choose the right drug to get the effect of the application.
How do oral contraceptives work?
Physicians for a long time studied the effect of oral contraceptives on the reproductive system and the female body as a whole. Improvement of the composition and formulation of these drugs allowed to minimize possible negative consequences and complications. All thanks to the multidirectional action of the components of tablets, which are based on synthetic analogues of female sex hormones.
Modern combined oral contraceptives, which are taken strictly at the recommended dose and on time, affect the reproductive system as follows:
- Ovulatory processes are inhibited. The hormones that enter into the contraceptive pill prevent the normal growth and maturation of the egg, which prevents it from entering the abdominal cavity for fertilization.
- Congestion of the cervical mucus. The mucus produced in the cervical canal changes its consistency, because of which the possibility of penetration of the sperm into the uterus is reduced.
- Slow down the growth of endometrial tissue. As a result of such changes, even if the egg is fertilized, implantation becomes impossible.
Oral contraception - the pros and cons
Many gynecologists negatively regard the long-term use of hormonal drugs. Harm of oral contraceptives is a violation of the habitual work of the endocrine system. As a result, the following consequences are possible:
- formation of tumors;
- mammary cancer;
- thrombosis;
- arterial hypertension;
- menstrual cycle disorders ;
- change in the nature, duration of menstruation.
If oral contraceptives are used correctly (matched by a doctor, dosage, breaks are observed), then the probability of negative influence is minimized. On the contrary, the use of these hormonal drugs helps to normalize the work of the hormonal system. Among the positive points of OK reception it is necessary to note:
- decreased pain during menstruation;
- reduction in the duration and abundance of menstruation;
- normalization of the menstrual cycle;
- prevention and treatment of gynecological diseases ( endometriosis , adenomyosis);
- reducing the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Oral contraceptives - types
Any oral contraceptive for women should be selected with the condition of individual characteristics. Part of this factor is due to the variety of drugs that prevent the onset of pregnancy. The mechanism of their action is similar, but the composition and form of release are different. The contraceptive effect is always exerted by the progestogen component. The estrogens present in the composition are used to maintain the normal functioning of the reproductive system. Existing OK are divided into:
- combined;
- gestagenic.
Combined oral contraceptives
The name of combined contraceptives (COC) was obtained because of the composition. They always have two analogues of sex hormones - ethinyl estradiol (estrogen) and progesterone (gestagen). Depending on the composition of the tablets, they are distinguished:
- monophasic - the level of hormones in tablets is the same throughout the package;
- two-phase - the blister contains tablets with two different combinations of hormones;
- three-phase - three combinations of hormonal substances in one preparation.
In addition, they divide the combined contraceptives and the content of the estrogen component in them:
- high-dose - with the maximum content of estrogens (Ovidon, Non-Ovlon);
- low-dose - the content of estrogens does not exceed 30-35 μg in 1 tablet (Femoden, Marvelon, Regulon, Janine);
- microdosed - up to 15-20 mcg (Mersilon, Novinet, Logest).
Gestagenic contraceptives
Oral contraceptives of this type have only a synthetic progestogen in their composition. Drugs of this group are prescribed to women during lactation, as well as to women who have contraindications to the use of combined contraceptives. Often, prophylactic drugs, based on gestagens, are used in late reproductive age for women giving birth and nulliparas (after 35 years). Among the commonly used drugs from this group can be identified:
- Lactineth;
- Charozette;
- Exluent;
- The microlut.
Postcoital contraceptives
In some cases, contraceptive measures for women must be taken after sexual intercourse. In such situations, girls use postcoital contraceptives (emergency contraception). Apply these contraceptive pills after the act immediately or within 72 hours after contact. With the increase in the time period, the effectiveness of postcoital funds is sharply reduced.
The effect of emergency contraceptives is based on increased contractile activity of the uterus, the effect on the myometrium. As a result of these processes there is a rejection of the functional layer, as during menstruation, and the woman fixes extraordinary monthly. At the same time, the uterus and the egg, fertilized during sexual intercourse, leave the uterus. It is worth noting that post-coital birth control pills, the names are listed below, cause a malfunction in the reproductive system, so they are used when absolutely necessary. Among the drugs of this group:
- Escapel;
- Mifegin;
- Postinor.
How to choose oral contraceptives?
To find out which contraceptive pills are better to take, a woman needs to turn to a gynecologist. After examination and analysis, the doctor selects the drug individually, taking into account the age and condition of the patient's body. The whole algorithm for selecting a contraceptive should look like this:
- consultation of a gynecologist;
- delivery of a smear for oncocytology ;
- consultation mammologist;
- biochemistry of blood (AST, ALT, lipid profile, sugar);
- ultrasound for 5-7 days of the cycle.
Rating of oral contraceptives
According to the doctors, the best contraceptive pills are those that are suitable for a woman and do not cause side effects. Everything is strictly individual, so do not rely on the experience of using similar means of a friend, a friend. The use of oral contraceptives on the feedback or recommendations of other women can adversely affect health.
Given this fact, talking about the best contraceptive drugs is meaningless. However, we can name the active use of oral contraceptives by women, the list of which looks like this:
- Regulon ;
- Marvelon;
- Yarina;
- Diane-35;
- Lactineth;
- Novinet;
- Three-Regol;
- Jess.
Use of oral contraceptives
Reception of oral contraceptives is carried out according to the scheme indicated in the instruction, taking into account the recommendations issued by the gynecologist. Any complaints arising during use should be discussed with a specialist.
To achieve the effect of using contraceptives, it is necessary to comply with a number of conditions:
- Tablets are taken daily, at about the same time (preferably at night).
- Violating the regime, skipping the reception is prohibited.
- The absence of a menstrual-like reaction requires continuation of the medication and specialist advice (pregnancy should be excluded).
- The appearance of adverse reactions (increased blood pressure, headaches, chest pains, visual impairment, jaundice, difficulty breathing) is an indication for drug withdrawal and the selection of another method of protection.
How to drink birth control pills?
Before taking oral contraceptives, a woman should carefully read the instructions to the drug. If the woman did not use oral contraceptives before this, then the reception starts on the first day of the cycle (it can be from 5, but you need to use a condom). The taking of tablets is carried out according to a certain scheme, the violation of which affects the effectiveness. Modern oral contraceptives take the scheme 21-7-21 (21 day of admission, 7 days of interruption and a new course).
Interrupt reception before the end of the course is prohibited. If the next tablet is not taken on time, then follow the following rules:
- If less than 12 hours have elapsed, take the missed pill and continue taking the routine.
- It took more than 12 hours - they take and continue the course, adhering to the old scheme and being protected with a condom within a week.
Cancellation of oral contraceptives
Cancellation of contraceptive pills is possible at the end of the course. When the last tablet from the package is accepted, a new one is not started. After cancellations within 1-2 days begin monthly. Their character can change a little (scanty, smearing). Complete recovery of the volume and duration of menstruation occurs in 2-3 cycles. Otherwise, a specialist consultation is required.