Contraceptive pills for women under 30. Oral contraceptives and birth control pills

Oral contraceptives (OCs or birth control pills) are available by prescription and contain combinations of estrogen and progestin, or progestin alone.

Most women use combination hormone pills. Women who experience severe headaches or high blood pressure due to estrogen combination pills can take a progestin pill.

Birth control pills are the most popular method of contraception, used by millions of women.
Birth control pills work like this:

Prevent ovulation. Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary. If the egg does not come out, fertilization by the sperm cannot occur;
- prevents the penetration of sperm into the uterus, keeping the cervical mucus thick and sticky.

When a woman stops taking the pill, she usually regains fertility within 3-6 months.

Hormones used in birth control pills

Most pills contain a combination of estrogen and progesterone in a synthetic form (progestin). The estrogen compound used in most oral contraceptive (OC) combinations is estradiol. There are many different progestins, but common types include: levonorgestrol, drospirenone, norgestrol, norethindrone, and desogestrel.

These hormones can cause side effects, especially during the first 2-3 months after you start using them. Common side effects of oral contraceptives include:

Bleeding during the first few months;
- nausea and vomiting;
- headaches (in women with a history of migraine);
- soreness and compaction of the chest;
- irregular bleeding or bleeding between periods;
- weight gain (this is not related to oral contraceptives).

Low-dose monophasic oral (oral) contraceptives

Combined oral contraceptives aim to block ovulation. These OCs contain a combination of estradiol and a progestin called levonorgestrel. They are divided into monophasic (the level of hormonal substances in the tablets remains unchanged throughout the intake) or triphasic (the tablets contain three combinations of hormones that change during the menstrual cycle).

Low-dose monophasic OK are such as: Sizonal, Sizonic, Librel, Yarina.

Mini-pills are birth control pills that contain the hormone progestogen, which is similar to the natural hormone progesterone that a woman's ovaries produce. Progestogen-only pills contain only one ingredient and are different from the more common combined birth control pills, which contain progestogen and estrogen.

Below is a list of contraceptives, taking into account age, whether a woman has given birth or not yet, whether she suffers from any hormonal or other body disorders.

Microdosed birth control pills.They are suitable for young, nulliparous women who have a regular sex life. The drugs in this group are easily tolerated and have minimal side effects. Great for those who have never used hormonal contraceptives. As well as contraception for mature women over 35 years old (up to the onset of menopause).

Low dose birth control pills. Recommended for young, nulliparous women who have a regular sex life (in the event that microdosed drugs did not fit - the presence of bloody discharge on the days of taking active pills after the end of the adaptation period to the drug). As well as contraception for women who have given birth, or women in late reproductive age.

High-dose oral contraceptives. These drugs are used only on prescription for the treatment of various hormonal diseases, as well as for contraception during the treatment of hormonal disorders.

- "Mini-drank" or progestin contraceptives. Recommended for women during breastfeeding, as well as for women who have given birth or women in late reproductive age who have a regular sex life, in case of contraindications to the use of estrogens.

Advantages and disadvantages of birth control pills

Benefits of oral contraceptives. In addition to preventing pregnancy, oral contraceptives may also have the following benefits:

Management of heavy menstrual bleeding and cramps, which are often symptoms of uterine fibroids and endometriosis (Natasia);
- prevention of iron deficiency anemia caused by severe bleeding;
- reduction of pelvic pain caused by endometriosis;
- protection against ovarian and endometrial cancer with long-term use (more than 3 years);
- Reducing the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Disadvantages and serious risks of oral contraceptives

Combining birth control pills can increase your risk of developing or worsening certain serious conditions. The risks depend in part on the woman's medical history. Some of the main risks associated with the birth control pill combination are deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, and stroke.

Have been smoking for over 35 years;
- have uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS);
- have a history of heart disease, stroke, thrombosis, or risk factors for heart disease (unhealthy cholesterol levels, obesity);
- have migraines with aura.

Serious risks of birth control pills may include:

- venous thromboembolism (VTE)

All combinations of estrogen and progestin - contraceptive products - lead to the risk of blood clots in the veins (venous thromboembolism), which can lead to blood clots in the arteries of the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism). Birth control pills containing drospirenone (Yazev and Beyaz) can increase the risk of blood clots much more than other types of birth control. Because of the risk of VTE, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that women not use combined hormonal contraceptives for 21 to 42 days postpartum;

- Hormones and pregnancy.

Hormonal disruptions often lead to complications, the first of which is cycle failure. In connection with this phenomenon, women who want to have children may experience difficulties in conceiving and more severe complications already during pregnancy. Planning pregnancy with an unstable ovulatory phase and imbalance of hormones should be carefully monitored, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right and monitor the level of sex hormones. The Time Factor complex helps to maintain the natural ratio of progesterone and estrogen in the body. Biologically active substances in the composition of the complex will help not only alleviate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, but also normalize the cycle, and, accordingly, make it possible to designate the days suitable for conception.

Birth control pill combinations contain estrogen, which can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and thrombosis in some women;

Several studies have found an association between an increased risk of cervical cancer and long-term (more than 5 years) use of oral contraception. Recent studies show that OC slightly increases the risk of breast cancer;

In rare cases, oral contraceptives have been associated with tumors of the liver, gallstones, or hepatitis (jaundice) in studies. Women with a history of any liver disease should consider other methods of contraception;

Some types of medicines can interact with each other, reducing the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. These drugs include anticonvulsants, antibiotics, antifungals, and antiretrovirals. The herbal remedy St. John's wort may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. The patient should ensure that their physician knows all medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements he/she is taking;

Birth control pills do not protect against any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. Unless a woman is in a monogamous relationship with an absolutely uninfected partner, she must be sure that a condom is used during intercourse - regardless of whether she is taking oral contraceptives.

Genetic disorders while taking oral contraceptives

By "genetic disorders" is meant any physical or mental pathology that can be inherited from parents. There are congenital diseases. Some genetic disorders do not appear at birth, but develop as a person grows, when signs and symptoms appear. Pathology may remain unrecognized until a person reaches puberty or until adulthood.

Comprehensive genetic analysis of genes for coagulation factors II and V to identify the risk of thromboembolic complications while taking hormonal oral contraceptives (OC) will make it possible to make the right decision about safer methods of contraception and family planning.

The most serious complication when taking hormonal OCs is their effect on the hemostasis system. The estrogen component of the combined OK activates the blood coagulation system, which increases the likelihood of thrombosis - first of all, coronary and cerebral, then - thromboembolism.

In women using combined OCs, the risk of venous thromboembolic complications is low, but it is higher than in those who do not use these OCs. The risk level increases with age, overweight, surgery and thrombophilia.

In most cases, genetic risk factors for the development of thromboembolic complications are mutations in the genes of blood coagulation factors II and V. The likelihood of developing thrombosis associated with a genetic predisposition is seriously increased when they are combined with other genetic defects.

Mutation of factor V and the use of hormonal contraceptives mutually affect the blood coagulation system, and this, when combined, significantly increases the risk of venous thrombosis. This risk while taking OCs in women who carry the Leiden mutation is 6-9 times higher than in women with normal factor V, and more than 30 times higher than in those who do not take OCs.

With a mutation in the prothrombin (F2) gene, its level increases and can be 1.5-2 times higher than normal, which leads to increased blood clotting. A pathologically altered genotype is an indicator of the risk of developing thrombosis and myocardial infarction. With a combination of mutations in the F2 and F5 genes, the risk of developing thromboembolic complications while taking hormonal contraceptives increases significantly. In this regard, a number of experts consider testing for the presence of a Leiden mutation and a mutation of the prothrombin gene necessary for all women who take hormonal contraceptives (or those who are going to take them).

In the 20th century, contraception received a huge boost in development. However, attempts to fight unwanted pregnancy were still in ancient Egypt and America, where they used douching with special decoctions of herbs after intercourse. Medicine does not stand still, so consider the most effective birth control pills of the new generation.

Which pills to choose

Most often, a young woman relies on the opinion of a doctor or pharmacist when choosing contraceptives. It is best if the girl before this receives minimal information about the types of contraception and birth control pills in particular, in order to ask a specialist about the differences between certain drugs. Remember that each remedy has side effects, and a person may have an intolerance to any component.

Effective drugs

Despite the fact that combined tablets are more reliable in their composition and action, however, they should not be used without a special examination of the hormonal background and a doctor's consultation. Recently, among hormonal drugs, women have been attracted to “mini-pill” tablets, which have only one hormone, but are reliable, and can also be taken during the period of feeding a child. Ladies who do not tolerate estrogen, these medications are also suitable.

emergency contraception

There are pills with a high content of hormones, but they can be taken only once a month immediately after intercourse. Such emergency contraception is suitable for people with an irregular sex life. Every day there are new drugs, but which one is right for your body, you need to decide with your doctor.

Types of hormonal birth control pills

Recently, hormonal pills have become popular, which include one or more hormonal substances in a minimal amount. These can be estrogens (ethinyl estradiol, mestranol, levonorgestrel, norethinodrel) or progestogens (gestodene, desogestrel, norgestimate). More often, tablets are produced combined, that is, they contain both estrogenic and progestogen components.

Monophasic drugs

According to the dosage, the tablets are divided into mono-, two- and three-phase. In the first variant, they all have the same composition of hormones. This category includes medicines "Silest", "Rigevidon", "Regulon", "Novinet", "Marvelon", "Mersilon".

Two- and three-phase tablets

In the second group, the dose of hormones changes twice per dose, so the tablets come in a package of different colors. This is the drug "Anteovin". In the third category, the dosage is changed three times, and the tablets are colored in three colors. This group includes medicines "Trisiston", "Tri-merci", "Tri-regol".

Classification of tablets according to the dose of the hormone

A small amount of ethinylestradiol contains microdose contraceptive pills (the names of only some of them: Novinet, Klaira, Mercilon, Lindinet-20). There are no side effects in this group of drugs. They can correct some of the hormonal imbalances associated with acne or painful periods. They are taken by women of any age, but most of all these pills are suitable for nulliparous girls (under 25 years old) who have a regular sex life.

Low dose drugs

Low-dose tablets, along with ethinyl estradiol, contain several other hormones. Together, they can eliminate acne, hair loss or prevent their growth on the face. Therefore, these tablets ("Femoden", "Regulon", "Midiana", "Belara", "Zhanin", "Yarina", "Marvelon") are suitable for young women who have gone through childbirth.

Medium and high dose drugs

Medium- and high-dose tablets contain two hormones: levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. With an average dosage of funds ("Chloe", "Tri-regol", "Demulen", "Diana-35") are suitable for women over 30 years old who have not recovered from childbirth, but have already weaned their children from the breast. With a high dosage of tablets ("Ovidon", "Non-Ovlon", "Milvane") are prescribed in case of serious hormonal disorders.

Non-hormonal pills

Non-hormonal tablets ("Pharmatex", "Traceptin", "Ginakotex") do not contain hormones, therefore they are suitable for women after childbirth and during lactation, as well as for those who cannot take hormonal drugs. The popularity of such drugs is associated with antiseptic and antimicrobial action. As a result, a woman is protected from most of the infections that she can get during sexual intercourse.

Features of the action of spermicides

Non-hormonal pills work as follows: spermicides, the main component of the drug, slow down the speed of spermatozoa and destroy them. In addition, a protective film is formed in the woman's body on the vagina. The mucus in the cervical canal thickens to such an extent that sperm cannot enter the uterus. That is, these funds do not affect the hormonal background of a woman. Compare how hormonal drugs work: due to estrogen and progesterone, the production of other hormones responsible for the maturation of the follicle is inhibited, as a result of which the development of the egg is suppressed.

Contraceptive pills: the names of the most popular drugs

The best pills for women: Novinet and Janine

Contraceptive pills: a list of new generation drugs

Contraindications for taking birth control pills

Both hormonal and non-hormonal birth control pills have pros and cons. Names of diseases for which you can not take hormonal drugs:

• thrombosis and diseases with blood clotting;
• heart diseases;
• migraine;
• breast and genital cancer;
• liver disease;
• high blood pressure;
• diabetes;
• epilepsy.

Side effects

Smokers, lactating women and women before surgery, hormonal pills are also contraindicated. Therefore, the attending physician prescribes this or that drug. Self-medication can lead to side effects:

• vomit;
• nausea;
• headache;
• irritability;
• pain in the chest;
• copious vaginal discharge;
• allergy;
• weight gain.

If contraceptive pills are chosen correctly (only the gynecologist will indicate the names in each case individually), then after a few months (on average 3) of adaptation to the drug, the woman's menstrual cycle normalizes, pain during menstruation decreases, some female diseases disappear, irritability and hysteria disappear.

Hormonal contraception is a modern type of protection against unwanted pregnancy, widely used throughout the world. Millions of women trust this method without making mistakes in their choice.

The principle of action of hormonal contraceptives is the complex effect of analogues of natural female sex hormones on the body: suppression of ovulation, thickening of cervical mucus and changes in the structure of the endometrium. Suppression of ovulation prevents the maturation and release of the egg, which prevents fertilization. The change in mucus prevents sperm from entering the uterine cavity. Even if fertilization has occurred, the fertilized egg will not be able to gain a foothold due to the special structure of the endometrium.

These 3 mechanisms provide reliable protection against pregnancy - according to the WHO (World Health Association), if used correctly, the effectiveness is close to 100%, however, irregularities in intake (missing pills, taking other drugs, violation of the regimen) can lead to conception, which reflected in the statistics.

There are also male hormonal contraceptives, but their use has not yet become widespread. The “universal pill” is still in development, and existing hormone regimens are seriously detrimental to health.

Any drug should be selected individually, since there is no universal method without drawbacks. Many of the pros and cons of hormonal contraceptives are similar, because they all contain similar active ingredients.

Advantages of hormonal contraception:

• high reliability;
• independence from the time of sexual intercourse;
• method reversibility;
• low frequency of side effects.

In addition, there are non-contraceptive benefits:

• reducing the risk of developing tumors of the ovaries and endometrium;
• weakening of premenstrual syndrome;
• treatment of dysmenorrhea;
• decrease in the abundance of menstruation (prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia);
• treatment of acne, hirsutism, seborrhea (when using COCs with an antiandrogenic effect);
• treatment of endometriosis.

Minuses:

• does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases;
• the need for regular use;
• the possibility of serious complications;
• many contraindications;
• incompatibility with certain drugs.

Form classification

According to the method of delivery of the hormone into the body, we can distinguish:

• tablets;
• injections;
• subcutaneous implants;
• skin patches;
• vaginal rings;
• hormone-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Classification by hormonal composition

Here is a classification of hormonal contraceptives according to the hormones used:

• Combined funds. They contain an estrogenic and progestogen component. As a rule, these are combined oral contraceptives (COCs), patches, vaginal rings or injections (CICs).
• non-combination drugs. They do not contain estrogens - mini-pills, implants, spirals, one-component injections.

Tablets (oral contraceptives)

One pack of tablets is designed for 1 cycle, most often contains 21 or 28 tablets. It should be taken from the 1st day of the cycle. If there are 21 tablets, then a seven-day break is needed before a new pack, if 28 - a break is not required. Combined tablets are mono- and polyphasic, depending on the dosage of hormones on the days of the cycle. From the amount of estrogen, high-, micro- and low-dose hormonal contraceptives (COCs) are isolated.

These drugs are often used in gynecology to treat endometriosis, functional ovarian cysts, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Hormonal contraceptives of the new generation are indicated for hirsutism, acne, seborrhea and can be prescribed even to girls who are not sexually active.

Combination drugs must be taken daily. Efficiency is high - more than 99%. When skipping a tablet, you should refer to the instructions for use and follow the instructions clearly - this will exclude the possibility of pregnancy.

Unfortunately, if more than 2 tablets are missed on dangerous days, the chance of pregnancy is quite high. When taking other drugs, you need to carefully study the annotation - they can reduce the contraceptive effect.

Contraindications for hormonal contraception combined pills:

• lactation period;
• age over 35 years, especially in combination with smoking;
• vascular diseases, migraines;
• thrombosis, diseases of the blood coagulation system;
• malignant tumors of the breast;
• liver disease.

Another type of pill "mini-drank". They contain only a progestogen component, which significantly reduces the number of contraindications and side effects. The peculiarity of taking pills is strictly at the same time of day, otherwise the contraceptive effect may decrease.

Reliability is somewhat lower than COCs, but the lack of systemic effects of estrogens on a woman's body makes them safer, expanding the range of patients who can be recommended oral contraception. When prescribing hormonal contraception after 40 years, during breastfeeding, at the risk of thrombosis, they often pay attention to progestin preparations.

Contraindications:

• mammary cancer;
• migraine;
• functional cysts.

A special type of oral contraception - postcoital drugs. This is one or two tablets with a high content of a progestogen analogue. Taken in an emergency within 72 hours of intercourse.

Contraindications:

• age up to 16 years;
• severe liver disease;
• pregnancy.

Injectable contraception

Injections are one of the methods of long-acting hormonal contraception. Combined preparations (CIC) and gestagenic are used. CIC (for example, Cyclofem, Mesigina) is administered by a healthcare professional once a month from the 1st to the 7th day of the cycle, the effect develops after 24 hours and lasts for 30 days. After discontinuation of the drug, pregnancy is possible in the first month. Contraindications for use - breastfeeding, diseases of the veins and the cardiovascular system, liver.

Progestin preparations (Depo-Provera) are well tolerated, have a high degree of protection (0-1 pregnancy per year per 100 women). Introduced intramuscularly 1 time in 3 months. The disadvantage of the drug is that the ability of fertilization is restored about 9 months after the abolition of hormonal contraceptives.

Intrauterine device

The hormonal coil is a small plastic T-tube with a copper coating. It is inserted into the uterine cavity through the cervix, securely fixed inside. It is recommended to use women who have already given birth, since any intervention in the uterine cavity in nulliparous women can lead to secondary infertility.

Spirals are designed for several years of work. They are installed and removed by a gynecologist without anesthesia. Reliability is close to 100%, since the local effect of the spiral and the general hormonal effect are combined.

Contraindications:

• deformation of the cervix and uterine cavity;
• ectopic pregnancy in history;
• mammary cancer;
• functional cysts.

How are hormonal contraceptives chosen?

The use of hormonal contraception is contraindicated without consulting a gynecologist! Very often the question is how to choose hormonal contraceptives on your own. There is an unequivocal answer to it: you should not do this. All hormonal drugs have a wide list of indications and contraindications, so the doctor should select the remedy after a thorough history taking and (at least) examination on the chair.

After the consultation, the specialist will decide whether an additional examination is necessary (blood for hormones, ultrasound, coagulogram) and will prescribe the best hormonal contraceptives for a particular case.

A phenotype-based hormonal contraceptive selection table will help you guess which remedy is right for you.

Hormonal contraceptives for breastfeeding: mini-pills, subcutaneous implants, intrauterine devices and progestin injections. The same funds are recommended for women over 40 or women who smoke after 35.

Possible reactions and side effects of hormonal contraception

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives in healthy women are extremely rare, but you need to be aware of the symptoms, if they appear, you need to urgently consult a doctor and stop taking the drugs:

• the onset of pregnancy;
• sudden visual disturbances;
• the need for surgical interventions;
• jaundice;
• the appearance of thrombosis;
• severe migraine;
• breakthrough bleeding;
• a sharp increase in weight;
• the appearance of neoplasms in the chest;
• myoma enlargement.

There are a number of side effects that can appear normally. They usually disappear after 2-3 months from the start of therapy. These include:

• spotting when taking hormonal contraceptives;
• lack of menstruation;
• decreased libido;
• perversion of tastes, smells;
• the appearance of skin problems (for example, acne);
• mild headaches.

Remote side effects that appear in a small number of women:

• amenorrhea after taking hormonal contraceptives;
• long-term restoration of fertility;
• irregular cycle;
• if antiandrogenic drugs were taken, it is possible to renew acne, hirsutism.

General principles for the abolition of hormonal contraception and the reaction of the body

Most contraceptives can be canceled on your own - stop taking the pills, stop using the patch or ring at the end of the cycle. The spiral and the implant can only be removed by a doctor. A break in taking hormonal contraceptives is recommended every five years. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a different treatment regimen, and then you need to follow the instructions.

The ability to become pregnant is restored in different ways: after the abolition of pills, vaginal ring and patch, fertility returns almost immediately, when using injections, implants, spirals - within 9 months.

During pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives are canceled immediately, but even if the pregnancy was diagnosed belatedly, most drugs do not harm the fetus. The main thing to remember is that many methods of contraception increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Thus, hormonal contraception is a modern, highly effective way to protect against unwanted pregnancy. It is suitable for women who have a permanent sexual partner as the only method of protection, as well as for those who want one hundred percent protection in combination with a condom. Why are hormonal contraceptives dangerous? Like any drug, they have their contraindications, and if you do not forget about them, the danger of hormonal contraception tends to zero.

Video consultation of an expert

I like!

In this article, we will look at 2 "sides of the coin" - the positive aspects of taking oral contraceptives and the potential health hazards:

• at the beginning of the article, we will consider the classification, contraindications, side effects and all the positive aspects of taking hormonal contraceptives
• then about the potential risk of developing long-term consequences of taking such drugs, even for a healthy woman.

By doing this, we want to draw women's attention to a longer-term prognosis of their health and think about the fact that any intervention in the natural processes in the female body is fraught with consequences - for someone insignificant, subtle, for someone much more serious, even tragic.

In no case do we call for abandoning the drugs prescribed by the doctor, the article is for informational purposes and the decision to take oral contraceptives is made by a woman after consultation and examination by a gynecologist. But, every woman should be aware of the possible risks that she is exposed to when taking oral contraception for a long time.

Groups of contraceptive pills, names and their action

Despite the rather rich assortment of contraceptives presented in the pharmacy, hormonal contraceptive pills today occupy a leading position (and bring billions of dollars a year to their manufacturers). Unfortunately, not everyone knows about contraindications to taking them, side effects, rules for taking pills, that they should not be taken for a long time and the choice of oral contraceptives should be made only by a doctor after a thorough diagnosis and taking the patient's history.

All contraceptive hormonal pills are divided into two "companies": combined oral contraceptives (COCs) and mini-pills.

Monophasic tablets In these tablets, the percentage of estrogenic and progestogen components does not change in each tablet.
Desogestrel and ethinylestradiol: Regulon (400-1100 rubles) prices 2018.	Ethinylestradiol and dienogest: Jeanine (price 1000 rubles) Silhouette (price about 680 rubles)	Gestodene and ethinylestradiol: Lindinet (380-500 rub.), Logest (800 rubles), Femoden (950 rubles)
Rigevidon (price 280 rubles)	Microgynon (380 rubles)	Minisiston (450 rubles)
Biphasic drugs In them, the dose of estrogen is the same in all tablets, and the dose of progestogen changes in the 1st and 2nd periods of the menstrual cycle.
Femoston Dydrogesterone + Estradiol (900 rubles).	(Ethinylestradiol + Levonorgestrel): Anteovin, Binordiol, Sekvularum, Adepal, Sequilar, Bifazil	Binovum (Ethinylestradiol + Norethisterone) Neo-Eunomine (Ethinylestradiol + Chlormadinone Acetate)
Triphasic Tablets In the OK data, the doses of hormones are changed three times in one package, which is associated with a change in the periods of the menstrual process.
Tri-Regol (280 rubles)	Three merci (120 rubles)	Triziston

The main point in the mechanism of action of COCs is the blocking of ovulation, due to inhibition of the formation of FSH and LH in the pituitary gland. In parallel, ovarian function and local obstruction of ovulation are blocked. In addition, “glandular regression” occurs in the structure of the uterine mucosa, which makes implantation of a fertilized egg impossible. Changes also occur in the mucus of the cervical canal, it thickens, which disrupts the movement of spermatozoa deep into the uterus.

COCs are also divided into 3 groups according to the quantitative content of active components:

Microdosed OK

The dose of hormones in these pills is minimal, so they are ideal for young women up to 25 years old, and, in addition, for those who are faced with the need to take birth control pills for the first time. Examples of drugs: Zoeli (monophasic), Qlaira (3-phase) and other monophasic ones - Jess, Dimia, Logest, Mercilon, Minisiston, Lindinet, Novinet.

Low-dose OK

Such tablets are recommended for young and mature representatives of the weaker sex, including those who have gone through childbirth, or are prescribed to those patients who, when using microdose drugs, experience intermenstrual bleeding. According to manufacturers' research, a group of low-dose tablets has an antiandrogenic effect (hair growth in uncharacteristic places decreases, acne and increased skin greasiness disappear, decreases). The list of contraceptive pills includes: Diana, Yarina (Midiana), Femoden, Siluet, Jeanine, Trimerci, Lindinet, Silest, Minisiston, Regulon, Marvelon, Microgynon, Rigevidon, Belara, Chloe, Demulen.

High-dose OK

The dose of hormones in these contraceptive pills is quite high, so they are prescribed either for the purpose of treatment (for example, endometriosis), or at the stage of therapy for hormonal disorders (Non-ovlon, Triquilar, Ovidon, Triseston, Triregol) only as prescribed by a doctor.

It can be said about mini-pills that they contain only progestogen. The mechanism of their action lies in the local influence on the peripheral parts of the reproductive system. Firstly, mini-pills affect the composition of cervical mucus and its quantity. So, in the middle of the cycle, its volume decreases, but the viscosity of the mucus remains high in any of the phases of the menstrual cycle, which prevents the free movement of spermatozoa. There are also changes in the morphological and biochemical structures of the endometrium, which create "bad" conditions for implantation. About half of women are blocked from ovulation. Mini-pills include: linestrenol (Exluton, Microlut, Orgametril), desogestrel (Lactinet, Charozetta).

Charozetta (1300 rubles) desogestrel	Lactinet (600 -700 rubles) desogestrel	Orgametril (3300 rub.) linestrenol	Exluton (3300 rubles) linestrenol

How to choose good birth control pills

Which contraceptive pills are good, the best, you can’t deal with this issue on your own, especially buying them at a pharmacy on the recommendation of friends or a pharmacist. To find the best birth control pills, you need to visit a doctor. The gynecologist will collect an anamnesis, dwell separately on a family history, existing diseases or past ones, since all of the above may be a contraindication to the use of hormonal contraceptives.

After that, the doctor will conduct an examination, during which he will evaluate:

• skin (telangiosis, petechiae, signs of hyperandrogenism, presence / absence of hypertrichosis, etc.)
• measure weight and blood pressure
• palpates the mammary glands
• prescribe tests for liver enzymes, blood sugar, blood coagulation, hormonal levels, ultrasound of the mammary glands, ultrasound of the pelvic organs, if necessary, mammography
• then perform a gynecological examination with swabs
• a woman should also visit an ophthalmologist, since long-term use of OK increases the risk of developing other eye diseases.

For the appointment of tablets that are most favorable for this patient, her constitutional and biological type is taken into account, which takes into account:

• height, appearance
• milk glands
• pubic hair
• skin, hair
• menstruation and premenstrual symptoms
• cycle irregularities or lack of menstruation
• as well as existing chronic diseases

There are 3 phenotypes:

The prevalence of estrogens

Women of short or medium height, very feminine in appearance, skin and hair are prone to dryness, menstruation with significant blood loss and long, and the cycle is more than four weeks. Medium and high-dose COCs are suitable for patients with this phenotype: Rigevidon, Milvane, Triziston and others.

Milvane (ethinylestradiol and gestodene): Logest (720 rubles) Femoden (600-650 rubles) Lindinet (average price 320 rubles)	Rigevidon (price 180 rubles), Microgynon (320 rubles), Minisiston (370 rubles) Tri-regol (200 rubles), Triquilar (530 rubles), Triziston

Balanced type

Women of average height, feminine, mammary glands of medium size and developed, skin and hair of normal oiliness, no premenstrual signs, menstruation 5 days after 4 weeks. Such women are recommended second-generation drugs: Marvelon, Silest, Lindinet-30, Microgynon, Femoden and others.

Ethinylestradiol and desogestrel: Marvelon (630 rubles), Novinet (330 rubles), Regulon (280-320), Tri-merci (650r) Mercilon (630 rubles)	Ethinylestradiol and Norgestimate: Silest	Eethinylestradiol and Gestodene (Milvane): Lindinet (280-350 rub.), Logest (720 rubles), Femoden (600-650 rubles)	Ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel: Rigevidon (180r), Tri-regol (200r) Microgynon (320r), Miniziston (370r) Triquilar (530r), Triziston

The prevalence of gestagens / androgens

Women are tall, “boyish” in appearance, underdeveloped mammary glands, skin and hair with increased fat content, depression on the eve of menstruation and pain in the abdomen, in the lumbar region, menstruation is scanty, less than 5 days, the cycle is short, less than 28 days. In this case, the doctor will advise hormonal preparations with an antiandrogenic component: Diane-35, Janine, Yarina, Jess.

Yarina (price 800 rubles)	Ethinylestradiol and drospirenone: Jess (820 rubles)	Ethinylestradiol and drospirenone: Dimia (550 rubles)	nomegestrol and estradiol Zoely (1000 rubles)

Ethinylestradiol and dienogest: Janine (800 rubles), Silhouette (400 rubles)		Ethinylestradiol and cyproterone: Diana 35 (820 rubles), Chloe 35 (450 rubles), Erica 35 (360 rubles)

How to take hormonal oral contraceptives correctly

Standard blisters with COCs contain 21 tablets. There are only a few exceptions, for example, Jess - a new generation of birth control pills, in which there are 24 pills and which are often prescribed by gynecologists to young women. For women after 35 years, the doctor may recommend Qlaira tablets, a new generation of oral contraceptives containing 28 tablets.

How to take birth control pills:

• Tablets should be taken every day, at about the same hour, starting on the first day of menstruation.
• In order not to forget about taking the next pill, it is better to put them in the place where a woman looks every day (in a cosmetic bag, on a toothbrush or attach a magnet to the refrigerator).
• Every day one tablet is drunk until the blister is over.
• Then you need to take a break for a week.
• During this time period, menstrual-like bleeding will begin.
• At the end of 7 days, start taking COC again, regardless of whether the period has ended or not.
• In case of vomiting, it is necessary to take an extraordinary tablet.
• If you miss taking a pill, you need to drink it as soon as possible.
• In these two cases, during the day you need to additionally protect yourself.
• At the very beginning of taking COCs, if they have not been used before, additional protection should be taken during the first 14 days.
• Intermenstrual bleeding is not considered a reason to stop taking pills (see)
• Usually they are noted in the first 2 - 3 months, and indicate a reconfiguration of the body from hormones that are synthesized in the ovaries and pituitary gland to hormones that come from outside.

Taking hormonal combination drugs after medical termination of pregnancy should be started either on the day) or a month later, when the first menstruation begins.

The contraceptive effect of hormonal drugs may decrease when used simultaneously with a number of drugs, for example, rifampicin (it stimulates the activity of liver enzymes). Therefore, when prescribing treatment for any disease, inform your doctor about taking oral contraceptives, carefully study the instructions for using the drugs prescribed to you. In the case of prescribing drugs that reduce the effect of COCs, additionally use other methods of protection (condoms).

The standard mini-pill blister contains 28 tablets. These tablets are drunk without a break for 7 days, just like COCs, at the same hour. Mini-pills are suitable for women who are breastfeeding. If a woman is not lactating or prefers artificial feeding, then low-dose COCs (Belara, Miniziston, Regulon and others) are recommended to her. You can start taking COCs as early as 21-28 days after delivery.

It is worth knowing that the contraceptive effect begins to manifest itself after 2 weeks of taking the pills, and the 100% effect and reliability of such a contraceptive method as OK occurs in the second month of taking the drugs. Blockade of the ovaries begins as soon as hormones begin to flow from the outside, but the maximum guarantee comes after a month's course of their use.

Side effects of birth control pills

Side effects are signs or conditions that develop when using contraceptives, but do not threaten the health of women. They are divided into 2 groups:

In the event of serious, as well as persistent small side effects, contraceptives are canceled.

Regardless of the chosen OK, a woman needs a periodic assessment of her health in connection with possible side effects from their use, namely:

• Blood pressure: measure every 6 months
• Physical examination (breast, liver palpation, gynecological examination), urinalysis: 1 r / year
• Monthly breast self-examination.

It is no secret that regular checkups are unlikely in many developing countries, and there are programs (in some countries) to distribute OCs to women who do not have access to medical care. This indicates a high likelihood that OCs will be used by high-risk groups of women. Consequently, it will be more difficult for such women to receive medical attention in case of dangerous side effects.

Absolute contraindications to oral contraceptives

Diseases in which the appointment of oral contraceptives is not desirable: (congenital hyperbilirubinemia), bronchial asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, thyrotoxicosis, myasthenia gravis, sarcoidosis, retinitis pigmentosa, thalassemia, renal dialysis.

At the end of the article, there is a video of a TV show detailing the dangers of using OCs by any woman, because even in the absence of the above contraindications (the woman and the doctor may not know about them), a seemingly healthy woman has an extremely high risk of developing pulmonary thromboembolism, developing oncology.

Hormonal contraceptives and possible pregnancy

Can you get pregnant while taking birth control?

This question worries many women. Of course, pregnancy against the background of the use of hormonal oral contraceptives is not excluded, but its probability is too small.

• First of all, an unwanted pregnancy occurs when the rules for using pills are violated (missing, irregular, taking at different times, the expiration date of the drug).
• You should also take into account the possible vomiting in case of poisoning or co-administration with drugs that reduce the contraceptive effect of hormonal pills.

Is it possible to take contraceptives when pregnancy has already occurred or is suspected?

The answer to this question is negative. If pregnancy after taking contraceptives has happened, it is desirable, then there are no indications for its termination (interruption). You just have to stop taking the pills right away.

Taking hormonal pills in late childbearing age

Currently, in economically developed countries, about half of married couples after 40 years of age prefer sterilization. Of the hormonal drugs, COCs or mini-pills are used. Women who are over the age of 35 should stop using hormones with existing cardiovascular pathology, coupled with smoking, a high risk of oncology. A good alternative for women after 40 - 45 years old are mini-pills. These drugs are indicated for uterine fibroids, endometrioid inclusions and endometrial hyperplasia.

Emergency and non-hormonal contraception

• emergency contraception

If sexual intercourse has occurred without the use of means that protect against pregnancy, emergency (fire) contraception is carried out. One of the well-known and widely used drugs is Postinor, Escapel. You can take Postinor no later than 72 hours after coitus without the use of contraceptives.

First you need to drink one tablet, and after 12 hours, the second is taken. But COCs can also be used for fire contraception. The only condition is that one tablet must contain at least 50 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 0.25 mg of levonorgestrel. First, you should drink 2 tablets as soon as possible after intercourse, and repeat the intake of 2 more after 12 hours.

These drugs can only be used in emergency cases (rape, condom breakage), WHO does not recommend their use more than 4 times a year, but in Russia they are popular and used by women much more often (see). In fact, they have an abortive effect, of course, this is not a surgical procedure like a medical abortion, but it is no less harmful from the point of view of the further reproductive function of the female body.

• Non-hormonal contraception

They are spermicides that are used topically to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The active component of such tablets inactivates spermatozoa and “does not let” them into the uterine cavity. Moreover, non-hormonal tablets have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. These tablets are used intravaginally, that is, they are inserted deep into the vagina before intercourse. Examples of non-hormonal tablets: Pharmatex, Benatex, Patentex Oval and others.

Arguments FOR taking hormonal birth control pills

Contraceptive pills, especially new birth control pills (new generation) have advantages over barrier contraceptives. The positive aspects of using OK, which are promoted by gynecologists:

• one of the most reliable and high-quality methods of contraception (efficiency reaches 100%);
• can be used at almost any age;
• against the background of taking contraceptive pills, the menstrual cycle becomes regular, pain may disappear during menstruation (see);
• good cosmetic effect (disappearance of acne, oiliness or dryness of hair and skin disappear, reduction of pathological hair growth);
• peace of mind (no fear of getting pregnant);
• the possibility of accelerating the onset of menstruation or its delay;
• therapeutic effect - endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts (whether OK have a therapeutic effect is still a very controversial issue, since most studies are carried out by manufacturers of hormonal contraceptives);
• after refusing to take pills, fertility is usually restored within 2-6 menstrual cycles (with rare exceptions up to a year).

But despite all the advantages, there are much more negative consequences from taking hormonal contraceptives and they outweigh the arguments FOR. Therefore, the decision to drink birth control pills is made by the doctor and the woman herself, based on the presence of contraindications, possible side effects of these drugs, general health, and the presence of chronic diseases. According to the results of many studies, taking oral contraceptives (long-term) has long-term negative consequences for the health of a woman, especially those who smoke and have any chronic diseases.

Arguments AGAINST oral contraceptives

In the modern world, the pharmaceutical industry is the same business as any other sector of the economy, and the material benefit from the sale of drugs that a woman needs every month is fabulous. Over the past decades, several studies have been conducted by independent American experts, the results of which suggest that taking hormonal contraceptives by a woman before the birth of 1 child increases the risk, and increases the cervix. In addition, OK cause depression, contribute to the development of osteoporosis, hair loss, and the appearance of pigmentation on the body.

The hormones produced by the body perform certain functions in the body, controlled in the higher hormonal centers - the pituitary and hypothalamus, which are associated with the adrenal glands, thyroid gland and ovaries (peripheral organs). The ovaries have a clear hormonal interaction with the whole body, the uterus waits for a fertilized egg every cycle, and even small doses of hormones coming from outside disrupt this fragile interaction.

With prolonged use of hormonal contraceptives, the functions of the genital organs completely change. Every day, taking the pill suppresses ovulation, the release of the egg does not occur, the functions of the ovaries are suppressed, which in turn depresses the regulatory centers. With prolonged use of tablets (for years), a woman in the uterus changes the inner layer, since it is rejected unevenly (hence bleeding and). The mucous layer and tissue of the uterus gradually change, which in the future (more often during menopause) threatens with oncological degeneration.

With prolonged use of oral contraceptives, the amount of sex hormones is reduced, the ovaries are reduced in size, their nutrition is disturbed - this is a powerful blow to the reproductive function of the body. Both at the beginning of the intake and after stopping the intake of OK, a failure occurs in the hormonal system, therefore, in some women, the restoration of reproductive function occurs within a year, and in some cases it may not recover at all. So:

• women who have the contraindications listed above should never take oral contraceptives, since serious complications may develop, up to death (development of vascular thrombosis), oncology;
• with prolonged use of OK, the excretion of vitamin B6 from the body is accelerated, which can lead to hypovitaminosis B6, as well as vitamin B2 (see), which adversely affects the nervous system (weakness, insomnia, irritability, skin diseases, etc., see);
• OK also disrupt the absorption of folic acid, which is very important for the body, which is very necessary 3 months before conception and during a future desired pregnancy and (see), the addition of which to some hormonal contraceptives is only a marketing ploy;
• With prolonged use (over 3 years), the risk of developing glaucoma increases by 2 times. Studies by scientists at the University of California showed that (3500 women over 40 years old, from 2005 to 2008 took contraceptives) when taken for 3 years without interruption of oral contraception, women are more likely to be diagnosed with glaucoma.
• oral contraceptives significantly increase the risk of developing osteoporosis in women in the future (after 40 years, see);
• taking OK for 5 years or more increases the risk by 3 times (see). Researchers attribute the growth of this disease to the "Era of hormonal contraception";

Today - in the age of oncological tension and not improved early diagnosis of the initial asymptomatic stages of oncology, a woman taking OK may not be aware of the presence of early stages of oncology in her, in which contraceptives are contraindicated and contribute to aggressive tumor growth;

• studies by Danish scientists show that long-term use in women is 1.5-3 times;
• oral contraceptives contribute to thrombosis in any vessels, incl. and vessels of the brain, heart, pulmonary artery, which increases the risk of stroke and death from pulmonary thromboembolism. The risk increases depending on the dose of hormones, as well as additional risk factors - high blood pressure, smoking (especially over 35 years old), genetic disposition, see;
• taking oral contraceptives increases the risk of developing chronic venous insufficiency - pain in the legs, night cramps, feeling of heaviness in the legs, transient edema, trophic ulcers;
• increases the risk of developing inflammatory diseases of the cervix, breast cancer
• in some cases, the return of fertility is delayed (1 - 2%), that is, the body gets used to the intake of hormones from the outside and in the future, some women may have difficulty conceiving;
• do not provide protection against genital infections, so their use is not advisable if there are many partners, women who have a promiscuous sex life (only condoms protect against genital infections and viruses, including), syphilis, etc.);
• taking oral contraceptives can provoke the appearance of a woman's body;
• according to American studies, in women taking oral contraceptives, the risk of early development of multiple sclerosis increases by 35% (see, which today can be in both a 20-year-old and a 50-year-old woman);
• one of them may be taking oral contraceptives;
• the risks of developing transient increase;
• women taking OCs are more likely to develop depression;
• some women have significantly reduced libido;
• the need for self-monitoring and daily intake;
• errors are not excluded when using contraceptive pills;
• the need to consult a gynecologist before taking;
• the price is quite high

According to WHO, about 100 million women use oral contraception, which brings fabulous profits to drug cartels. Manufacturers of hormonal contraceptives are extremely uninterested in disseminating truthful information about the dangers of products that bring them huge profits.

Today, there is strong public opposition around the world to ban the sale of dangerous drugs, and information about their potential harm is publicly available. The result of this is that European and American gynecologists strongly recommend condoms, which protect not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from genital infections. Next in popularity is the hormonal patch and then the spiral.

After reports of the dangers of OK, several deaths and lawsuits, Diane-35 is banned in some countries (USA, Germany, France), and surveys of Europeans showed that 67% of people aged 15-63 try to protect themselves with condoms, this is married couples and single women, 17% prefer the patch, 6% use the spiral, the remaining 5-10% continue to use OK.

Russian doctors actively continue to offer (advertise) oral contraception to women, moreover, they prescribe them to girls from the age of 14-18, without reporting a potential and very real threat to their health.

Content

Prevention of unwanted pregnancy is one of the most important issues in maintaining a woman's reproductive health. It is no secret that the consequences of an abortion cause more harm to the body than rationally selected hormonal methods of contraception. Today, each patient is able to find the best way to prevent pregnancy, if necessary, supported by a therapeutic effect.

Modern contraceptive methods for women

To date, there are a huge number of ways to prevent conception. Each method individually has its own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing the safest contraceptive to prevent unwanted pregnancy, the patient should receive the following information:

• the effectiveness of the method, the likelihood of pregnancy;
• rules for the use of contraception;
• mechanism of action, adverse reactions;
• possible health risks;
• degree of protection of the method against STIs;
• symptoms requiring medical attention;
• restoration of fertility if desired.

Despite many myths, modern contraception includes hormonal methods in various variations of the delivery of the main substance. Hormonal pills of the latest generations, in addition to the main effect of preventing unwanted pregnancy, simultaneously have a number of positive effects: they improve the skin, reduce the amount of discharge and pain during menstruation, and eliminate PMS. Some contraceptives additionally include folic acid in the preparation of the patient's body for future gestation.

Rules for choosing a contraceptive method

At a consultation appointment with a gynecologist, after a thorough examination and additional examination, the most appropriate method of contraception is selected on an individual basis. A properly selected contraceptive for women provides the desired result with the least number of undesirable effects, while the patient must be ready to use the selected method for a long time.

There are no special rules for choosing a contraceptive method. During the examination, the woman is informed about all possible protection options, advised to choose the most reliable modern products.

Some patients are indignant that the doctor did not prescribe a hormonal examination before prescribing COCs. WHO recommendations and studies confirm that a healthy young woman does not need to be tested for sex steroids to successfully select a hormonal contraceptive method.

Attention! In routine practice, contraceptives for women under 30 are selected by careful questioning, examination and measurement of pressure in the absence of data on serious diseases.

Types of contraception

There are biological, barrier, hormonal and surgical methods of contraception. The first two are considered relatively outdated, ineffective. The degree of protection of the method depends on the rules of use and subjective feelings, which does not always guarantee a high result. The advantage of these tools is security. The remaining methods are classified as modern, effective methods of regulating conception. The disadvantages of such contraception are the existence of contraindications, the development of adverse reactions. In order to avoid serious harm to health, a medical consultation is always carried out to clarify all possible risks.

Important! Only a condom (male and female) can protect a woman from STIs.

Hormonal contraceptives

The most common method of preventing pregnancy in the world is hormonal. The classification of contraceptives divides hormonal preparations into combined and containing only progestin. Combined products contain estrogen and progesterone components. Depending on the concentration of substances in the drug, it differs: monophasic, two- and three-phase contraception.

Taking hormonal contraceptives provides reliable protection against conception. Hormones can enter a woman's body in different ways:

• orally;
• injection;
• to be implanted under the skin;
• applied as a patch to the surface of the body;
• inserted with a spiral into the uterus.

More often, women use the oral method of administering the active substance. However, this technique of contraception requires patients to be systematic. Tablets should be used daily, preferably at the same time of day. Distortion, violation of the regimen, vomiting or diarrhea lead to a decrease in the protective effect.

Mechanism of action of hormonal contraceptives

The basic principle of protecting these drugs from conception is to prevent ovulation. The absence of a monthly egg release makes fertilization an impossible phenomenon, which provides reliable contraception. In addition to blocking ovulation, the method contributes to a change in the properties of cervical mucus, which leads to death, and prevents the advancement of spermatozoa into the vagina. The drugs reduce the contractility of the fallopian tubes and prevent the thickening of the endometrium before the proposed implantation.

The regular intake of COC hormones maintains contraception at the proper level, a decrease in the concentration of substances leads to a loss of effectiveness. Therefore, when choosing this method of contraception, it is important to take pills daily.

The appointment of hormonal contraceptives is carried out only by a specialist, which is associated with a wide variety of drugs with different auxiliary effects:

• regulation of the duration of the cycle, the ability to delay the onset of menstruation;
• decrease in blood loss;
• elimination of PMS;
• has a therapeutic effect in endometriosis, androgenital syndrome.

Such drugs are able to simultaneously have a therapeutic effect and prevent conception, so COCs are considered the number one contraceptive method in the world.

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives

When using contraceptives, the following adverse reactions may develop, which often develop in the first months of using drugs due to the restructuring of endocrine regulation:

• headache;
• intermenstrual bleeding;
• mood swings, apathy;
• violation of well-being and performance;
• soreness of the mammary glands;
• puffiness;
• increase in blood pressure.

Important! Hormonal contraception is contraindicated in venous thrombosis, severe arterial hypertension, after 40 years with a long smoking history, migraine with aura, stage 3-4 obesity, cancer.

New generation hormonal contraceptives

Thanks to long-term research and advances in molecular chemistry, it was possible to minimize the doses of hormones in drugs while maintaining the contraceptive effect. Today, low-dose contraceptives with a minimum number of adverse reactions are considered the drugs of choice. One tablet of this remedy contains up to 35 mcg of the estrogen component.

Gestagens, in turn, are divided into 3 generations. New progestins have no negative impact on carbohydrate, fat metabolism and blood coagulation processes. As a result, modern methods of hormonal contraception are much safer than their predecessors.

List of hormonal contraceptives

Young women concerned about weight control prefer contraception with:

• Lindinet 20;
• Logest;
• Novinet;
• Mercilon.

• Diana -35;
• Janine;
• Modell Pro;
• Rigevidon;
• Yarina;
• Qlaira;
• Jess;
• Femodene;
• Silhouette.

During lactation, young mothers use the following protection methods:

• Charosetta;
• Lactinet;
• Microlute.

Barrier contraception

The barrier method of preventing conception is considered preferable for non-permanent sexual contracts, insecurity in a partner. The condom is considered the only method of contraception that protects against most STIs. The rest of the female contraceptives are devoid of this property. Barrier methods are still one of the main means used by adolescents.

Important! Correct use of a condom from the beginning to the end of sexual intercourse is essential. The use of the drug only before ejaculation significantly reduces the contraceptive effect.

Chemical contraceptives

Spermicides are available in different forms: cream, suppositories, gels, aerosol, sponges, tablets for topical application. Due to the special composition of the contraceptive, spermatozoa are inactivated. The effectiveness of the method is highly dependent on compliance with the rules for using the drug. If the instructions are not followed, the contraceptive effect of contraception can be completely leveled. Plus, a significant drawback is that such contraception is felt by both partners, sometimes causing a burning sensation.

Mechanical contraception

Cervical caps, diaphragms, condoms for women serve as a mechanical obstacle to fertilization. The effectiveness of the methods depends on the accuracy and correct installation of the protective formation.

Local contraceptives for women

The intrauterine device is considered a fairly simple and reliable modern method of contraception. On average, the device provides protection against unwanted pregnancy for 5 years, and you do not need to worry about taking the drug or the reliability of the condom every time. The method of contraception is acceptable when breastfeeding, and is recommended for use by all women who have given birth.

Single contraceptives

As an emergency method of protection against pregnancy, emergency contraceptives for girls are applicable. This concept involves the use of special methods after sexual contact to reduce the likelihood of conception. This method of contraception is allowed to be taken during forced sexual intercourse, in case of violation of the integrity of barrier contraceptives. The method is not intended for permanent use. The greatest effectiveness of postcoital contraception is shown when taking pills in the first 72 hours after intercourse.

Important! Single-acting drugs use high concentrations of hormones. For permanent use, partners should choose another reliable way to prevent pregnancy.

Surgical methods of contraception

Apart from sexual abstinence, sterilization is considered the most effective contraceptive. The effectiveness of the contraceptive method is close to 100%, but even in this case there is a small risk of conception. The disadvantage of this contraception is irreversibility. In most cases, sterilization is used by women who are categorically contraindicated in bearing. Another option for the use of surgical tubal ligation is when a woman has already given birth to the desired number of children (usually more than 3) and no longer needs offspring or has acquired diseases that worsen during gestation.

Important! If a married couple, for various reasons, decided to have children after sterilization, then independent pregnancy is not possible. For conception, you will need to resort to assisted reproductive technologies.

How to protect yourself without pills and spirals

In addition to the main methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy, there are methods that protect more than 30% of the female population. These include the so-called methods of fertility control. Physiological methods of contraception include the use of coitus interruptus, counting dangerous days and determining the day of ovulation.

Unfortunately, these methods of contraception are considered the least reliable. There is no complete confidence in the correctness of using the method: the sexual partner cannot always restrain himself at the right time, there is a small amount of spermatozoa in the lubricant. The calendar method of contraception is based on measuring basal temperature, controlling sensations and determining the time of release of the egg, which is not always correct. As a result, the calculation is violated, the effectiveness of the contraceptive method decreases.

Important! When determining the period of ovulation, 9-19 days are considered potentially dangerous with a 28-day cycle. During this period, a woman must protect herself from conception in another way or not have sex.

What are the best contraceptives

The safest contraceptive is abstinence. In reproductive age, the most reliable method to prevent conception is the use of hormonal contraception. Birth control pills are among the most effective means. It is acceptable to use COCs in young people, in patients 6 months after childbirth while breastfeeding, in the absence of contraindications. Mini-pills (pure gestagens) are used in cases where the estrogen component is contraindicated.

However, due to the extensive list of contraindications, not every patient can use oral hormonal contraceptives. In such cases, the introduction of contraception in a different way is considered: a spiral, a ring, a patch, an injection.

Important! Intrauterine devices are preferably installed after childbirth to lengthen the periods between pregnancies.

The most reliable contraceptives

If we take into account the number of pregnancies that occurred while taking a particular method of pregnancy control (Pearl index), the list from the most effective to the least effective methods of contraception looks like this:

1. Sterilization.
2. IUD (intrauterine device).
3. COCs (combined oral contraceptives).
4. Hormonal patches and injections.
5. Mini-drank.
6. Emergency pills.
7. Mechanical methods (condoms, diaphragm).
8. Interrupted intercourse.
9. Calendar method for determining ovulation.
10. Spermicides.