Estradiol-containing birth control pill

Estradiol-containing birth control pill is a type of oral contraceptive that contains estradiol, a form of the female sex hormone estrogen. These pills are used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovaries.

Composition

Estradiol-containing birth control pills typically contain a combination of estradiol and a type of progestin, another female hormone. The specific type and amount of progestin can vary between different brands of pills. Some common types of progestin used in these pills include levonorgestrel, norethindrone, and drospirenone.

Mechanism of action

Estradiol-containing birth control pills work by preventing ovulation. The estradiol in the pill suppresses the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn prevents the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. Without these hormones, ovulation cannot occur.

Side effects

Like all medications, estradiol-containing birth control pills can have side effects. Common side effects include nausea, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual cycle. More serious side effects can include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, particularly in women who smoke or have other risk factors.

See also

• Oral contraceptive pill
• Estrogen
• Progestin
• Ovulation