Combination birth control pill

Combination Birth Control Pill

The combination birth control pill is an oral contraceptive that contains both estrogen and progestin, two types of female hormones. These hormones work together to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining.

Mechanism of Action

The combination birth control pill primarily prevents pregnancy through three mechanisms:

1. Inhibition of Ovulation: The hormones in the pill suppress the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary gland, which in turn prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation).

2. Thickening of Cervical Mucus: The progestin component thickens the mucus in the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.

3. Endometrial Changes: The pill causes changes in the lining of the uterus (endometrium), making it less suitable for implantation of a fertilized egg.

Types of Combination Pills

Combination birth control pills are categorized based on the dosage of hormones:

• Monophasic Pills: Each active pill contains the same dose of hormones.
• Multiphasic Pills: These pills vary the dose of hormones throughout the cycle. They include biphasic, triphasic, and quadriphasic pills.

Benefits

The combination pill offers several benefits beyond contraception:

• Regulation of menstrual cycles
• Reduction in menstrual cramps
• Decreased risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers
• Improvement in acne

Risks and Side Effects

While generally safe, the combination pill can have side effects and risks, including:

• Increased risk of blood clots
• Elevated blood pressure
• Nausea, headaches, and breast tenderness
• Mood changes

Contraindications

The combination pill is not suitable for everyone. It is contraindicated in individuals with:

• History of thromboembolic disorders
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Certain types of migraine headaches
• Breast cancer

Usage

The combination pill is typically taken once daily, at the same time each day, for 21 days followed by a 7-day break (or placebo pills) during which menstruation occurs. Some formulations may have different schedules.

Also see

• Progestin-only pill
• Emergency contraception
• Intrauterine device
• Contraceptive patch

• Birth control
• Contraception
• Dictionary of birth control
• Reproductive health