Here are some important facts about birth control pills
Birth control pills are a popular contraceptive option for many women. However, there’s a lot more to these tiny tablets than meets the eye. If you’re switching from a different contraceptive method to birth control pills or just exploring the family planning options available to you, then read along.
We’ll provide insights on how these pills work, how to take them, and how Chemist2U will deliver these and your other necessary medications.
In this article
1. How do birth control pills work?
Birth control pills, also known as contraceptive pills, come in various forms. The most common types include combined estrogen-progesterone, progesterone-only, and continuous or extended-use pills.
Progesterone helps prevent pregnancy by hindering ovulation or the release of an egg in the female reproductive cycle. This is a result of progesterone’s influence on the hypothalamus, which reduces the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) that are needed for egg development. Consequently, without egg maturation and release, pregnancy is unlikely to happen.[1]
Another key action of progesterone is to make the cervical mucus hostile to sperm penetration, further preventing pregnancy.
For birth control pills containing oestrogen, this hormone primarily works through its feedback effect on the anterior pituitary gland, which slows down FSH secretion.[2]
There are various contraceptive pill brands on the market, each containing its own set of synthetic oestrogen and/or progesterone as active substances. Some examples of these include:
- Levlen ED: contains levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol[3]
- Zoely: contains nomegestrol acetate and estradiol[4]
- Micronelle 30 ED: contains levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol[5]
- Femme-Tab ED 20/100: contains levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol[6]
While exploring pill options, it’s vital to consult with your doctor to find the most suitable choice for your individual circumstances.
2. How do you take birth control pills?
Different birth control pills may have varying doses of hormones in them, and the proper way of taking them may depend on their formulation.
However, generally, these pills are taken for twenty-one or twenty-two days per cycle. This is typically followed by a six or seven-day break, during which your menstruation occurs. Protection against pregnancy also continues during this break. Some packs may also have twenty-eight pills. The last six or seven are generally hormone-free pills that can help you maintain a regular pill-taking routine.
If a pill is missed, it should be taken within twelve hours. Otherwise, pregnancy prevention can’t be guaranteed for the remainder of the cycle. Conversely, the ‘mini pill’, or progesterone-only birth control pills, requires strict adherence. They need to be taken at the same time every day. Failure to do so necessitates consumption within three hours.[7]
There are also emergency contraception pills, also known as the morning-after pills. These are popular options for preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They are most effective when taken within twenty-four hours, but their efficacy can extend up to five days post-intercourse.[8]
Remember, your doctor can help you in choosing the right contraceptive that may align with your health needs and lifestyle.
3. Who can take birth control pills?
Generally, most women who have had their first period and are pre-menopausal may take birth control pills under the guidance of a doctor.
However, oral contraceptives are not recommended for those with a history of venous thromboembolism and smokers over thirty-five due to increased cardiovascular risks. Additionally, women with certain health conditions, such as hypertension, breast cancer, ischemic heart disease, certain types of migraines, endometrial cancer, cirrhosis, or liver tumours, may be advised to avoid combined hormone contraceptive pills.[9]
4. Side effects of birth control pills
While considering long-term contraceptive use, it’s important to be aware of their side effects.
Common side effects include breakthrough bleeding, nausea, headaches, abdominal cramping, breast tenderness, and changes in libido or vaginal discharge. Most of these side effects are mild and may often resolve over time or with a change in pill formulation.[10]
Additionally, birth control pills can increase blood pressure and affect the body’s handling of sodium and certain hormones like thyroxine and cortisol. There’s also an increased risk of blood clots when taking oral contraceptives, as they can raise the levels of clotting factors in the blood.[12]
Progestogen-only contraceptives generally have fewer systemic side effects than combined pills but may cause menstrual irregularities.[11] It’s essential to have ongoing communication with your doctor to manage any side effects effectively.
5. Birth control pills and other medications
Substances like vitamin C in large doses may enhance contraceptive effectiveness by increasing oestrogen action. Conversely, certain drugs, including the tuberculostatic medication rifampicin, could reduce the pill’s effectiveness by accelerating the breakdown of oestrogen and progestogen.[13]
It’s important to note that this may not cover all potential interactions, and it is crucial to disclose all the medications you’re taking to your doctor.
6. Medicines you should not use with birth control pills
There isn’t a straightforward answer when it comes to medicines that should be avoided with birth control pills. However, it’s crucial to be aware of drug interactions that may reduce contraceptive effectiveness. For instance, combining them with blood pressure, blood thinning, or diabetes medications might lessen the effectiveness of these drugs.
Consulting with your doctor is essential to understand what medications you may not use with birth control pills.
7. How to order birth control pills through Chemist2U
Taking birth control pills on time greatly affects their effectiveness. But sometimes, purchasing them by going to the pharmacy month after month can be a hassle, especially with a busy schedule.
At Chemist2U, we make life easier with home delivery of your essential medications.
Begin by downloading our user-friendly app or order delivery using this website, where you can conveniently upload your eScript. From there, you can also explore and add any over-the-counter items to your order, mirroring the experience of a physical pharmacy but from the comfort of your home.
Your prescriptions will be filled by a partner pharmacist in your local community before being delivered to your door. Same-day delivery is available in metro and major regional areas across Australia if you place your order before the cutoff (around 2 p.m. in most areas).
Experience the ease of managing your medications with Chemist2U. Order home delivery of your medications today!
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
[3] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/84258206-0547-41e8-91cd-a53300fefe2f-reduced.pdf
[4] https://www.drugs.com/uk/zoely.html
[5] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/c21a37b7-dd6d-44b7-92c4-a53300ff94aa.pdf
[6] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/d918dac5-06a9-4699-b115-a53300ff90e8-reduced.pdf
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441576/
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2792670/
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
[11] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28613632/
