Birth Control
Birth ControlMethods of Birth Control
Birth control pills are an oral contraceptive for women. They are monophasic, biphasic, or triphasic. Each type contains estrogen and progestin in differing amounts. Monophasic birth
control pills maintain the same levels of estrogen and progestin throughout the course, while biphasic pills keep the estrogen level the same while increasing the progestin levels for the last
11 days of the pack, and triphasic pills are designed to mimic the natural menstrual cycle by varying both hormones throughout the pack. Basically the progesterone in birth control pills has
an antifertility effect, and also suppresses ovulation at higher levels.
Birth control pills first appeared in the 1950s after it was discovered that progesterone blocked ovulation. The first birth control pills contained more than 20% more estrogen and more
than 10% more progesterone than pills today. This significant reduction has decreased the adverse side effects of the drugs greatly.
Currently the birth control pill has the highest efficacy rate, with a 99.9% effectiveness rate for combination regimens and a 99.5% effectiveness rate for progestin only regimens in clinical
trials. It is extremely important to take the pills on a regular basis and at a regular time of day (say after dinner or with breakfast every day) as effectiveness drops with improper usage.
The birth control pill cannot be used as a "morning after pill" without the advice and monitoring of a physician.
Common side effects of birth control pills are nausea; vomiting; cramps; bloating; breakthrough bleeding (light bleeding at the start of the regimen); spotting (light bleeding at times);
change in menstrual flow (most commonly lighter flow than one is used to); breast changes such as increased tenderness, enlargement, secretion; change in weight, depression, intolerance
to contact lenses. Women who suffer from migraine headaches may experience an increase in migraine occurance.
It is important to always, always mention to any doctor you are visiting the type of birth control pills you are on, since they do interact badly with certain other drugs. Antibiotics may reduce
the effectiveness of birth control pills, as can drugs such as phenobarbital, phenytoin, and rifampin. Birth control pills can also increase the risk of toxicity of drugs such as BZDs, beta
blockers, caffeine, some steroids, and tricyclic antidepressants. Just because your birth control pills may be designed to mimic your natural menstrual cycle doesn't mean they are a totally
natural solution that won't effect any other medications you are taking.
There are many different formulations of birth control pills, and different forms of progesterone and estrogen with different effects. If you are experiencing unpleasant side effects, such as
fatigue, headaches, or mood swings, you may want to consult your doctor and try a different type of pill. Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to help you determine whether your
symptoms are related to progesterone or estrogen. This is important, because while for most people estrogen related side effects, such as nausea, will...
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