Combined birth control pills

Combined Birth Control Pills

Combined birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, are a type of medication used to prevent pregnancy. These pills contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin, which work together to inhibit ovulation, alter the uterine lining, and thicken cervical mucus, thereby preventing sperm from reaching an egg.

Mechanism of Action

Combined birth control pills primarily prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation. The estrogen component suppresses the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, preventing the development and release of an egg from the ovaries. The progestin component thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and alters the endometrial lining, reducing the likelihood of implantation.

Types of Combined Pills

There are several types of combined birth control pills, categorized based on the dosage and type of hormones they contain:

• Monophasic pills: These pills deliver the same dose of estrogen and progestin in each active pill.
• Biphasic pills: These pills alter the level of hormones once during the cycle.
• Triphasic pills: These pills vary the hormone levels three times throughout the cycle.

Benefits

Combined birth control pills offer several benefits beyond contraception, including:

• 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 for most women, combined birth control pills can have side effects and risks, such as:

• Increased risk of blood clots
• Elevated blood pressure
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness

Women who smoke and are over the age of 35 are at a higher risk of serious cardiovascular side effects.

Usage

Combined birth control pills are typically taken once daily, at the same time each day, to maintain consistent hormone levels. A typical pack contains 21 active pills and 7 inactive pills, during which withdrawal bleeding occurs.

Contraindications

Combined birth control pills are not suitable for everyone. Contraindications include:

• History of thromboembolic disorders
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Certain types of migraines
• Breast cancer

Also see

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

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