What contraceptives are better after 35 years. What are the best birth control pills to take? Pros and cons of taking oral contraceptives. How likely is pregnancy when using COCs?

Among the wide selection of oral contraceptives, mini-pill contraceptives are becoming increasingly popular. They are a completely complete alternative to combined oral contraceptives, but differ from them in their composition.

The product is based on microdoses of progestin (300-500 mcg). This is a hormone that replaces progesterone produced by the ovaries. Mini-pills are minimal pills that are valued due to their gentle effect on the body and a small number of contraindications.

Unlike combined contraceptives, which contain higher doses of progesterone and estrogen, mini-pills are indicated for use by women who have any contraindications to taking traditional contraceptives. At the same time, it should be noted that their efficiency is slightly lower.

How do mini-pills work?

Under the influence of progestin, the cervical mucus of the uterine cavity becomes thicker. This leads to the fact that sperm cannot easily reach the uterus and die. The contraceptive effect is based on suppression, due to blocking the release of lutropin. Even if it occurs, the process of releasing the egg and its movement through the fallopian tube is significantly more difficult.

Names of drugs that belong to the mini-pill group: Micropar, Ovret, Microlut, Exluton, Latinet, Charozetta, Narcolut. The listed drugs are less effective than the group of combined contraceptives, but have fewer contraindications.

Advantages and disadvantages

New generation mini-pills have many advantages compared to other medications of similar action.

The drug is approved for use:

1. For varicose veins, diabetes mellitus, pathologies of the cardiovascular system, hypertension, smoking women after 35 years. The listed factors are among the most common contraindications of combined contraceptives.
2. At any age, including premenopause, as well as after abortion and childbirth.
3. During lactation. The constituent components of these products do not penetrate into breast milk, nor do they impair its quality or reduce its quantity.
4. During preparation for a planned operation. COCs are not recommended in these cases.

Other pros when choosing:

• contraceptives do not have a negative effect on sexual desire, do not cause emotional disorders and mood swings;
• These remedies help relieve pain and discomfort during menstruation and reduce symptoms;
• after long-term use of the drug, a planned pregnancy will occur within a month after its discontinuation;
• the drug has an additional therapeutic effect in eliminating inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs, menstrual dysfunction, and endometriosis.

The main disadvantage of mini-pills is their lower effectiveness compared to combined contraceptives. Also, the disadvantages include an increased risk of ovarian cysts and ectopic pregnancy. The medications must be taken strictly at the same time, otherwise the effectiveness of their action is significantly reduced.

Mini-pills do not protect a woman from sexually transmitted diseases. In the absence of a permanent partner or insufficient confidence in him, additional protective measures are necessary.

Some women experience light spotting midway through their menstrual cycle and slight changes in weight. If you regularly take other medications, you must notify your gynecologist about this, since the simultaneous use of several medications may reduce the contraceptive effect.

The appearance of intermenstrual discharge, painful swelling and hardening of the mammary glands, and slight swelling in the legs are among the side effects of the mini-pill. However, their occurrence is not a reason to discontinue the drugs, since these negative phenomena are short-term in nature and do not have a negative impact on the woman’s health as a whole.

If the child is completely bottle-fed, taking pills should begin immediately after birth, no later than three weeks. If breastfeeding, you can wait until the fifth or sixth week of the postpartum period. If it is necessary to supplement the child's feeding (breastfeeding is carried out partially), mini-pill contraception is required. You need to start taking contraceptives in the first month after delivery.

For nursing mothers, mini-pills are the best way to avoid unwanted pregnancy during a period when the body is under increased stress.

Taking the mini-pill while breastfeeding is absolutely safe for the baby. It does not have a negative effect on the baby’s development or weight gain. If a woman decides to become pregnant, her reproductive function will be restored immediately after stopping the drug. Doctors advise skipping 2-3 menstrual cycles before getting pregnant. During this period, you need to use others, for example, condoms.

After 45 years

At this age, there is a gradual decline in ovarian activity, which reduces the likelihood of pregnancy. However, this possibility cannot be completely ruled out. Taking a mini-pill during this period of a woman’s life will not only avoid unwanted pregnancy, but will also become a kind of prevention of the occurrence and tumors of the mammary glands.

Progestogens eliminate the first symptoms of menopause, such as increased sweating, hot flashes, the development of osteoporosis, and insomnia. If previously it was believed that hormonal contraceptives were undesirable after 30-35 years, now new generation drugs are allowed even at older ages.

Women should take into account that some medications, when taken simultaneously with birth control pills, may reduce the effectiveness of the latter. First of all, such medications include anticonvulsants and sleeping pills, some antibiotics, antifungal medications, and anti-HIV medications.

Although the likelihood of pregnancy when taking the mini-pill correctly is almost zero, it still exists. If pregnancy occurs, microdoses of progestin are immediately discontinued.

The use of mini-pills for certain pathologies

• For varicose veins

Until relatively recently, varicose veins and hormonal contraception were incompatible. Such drugs reduce the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels and retain fluid. This negative effect causes swelling in the legs, the formation of blood clots and the risk of blood clots.

Mini-pills are an excellent solution for women with varicose veins because they contain a small amount of hormones. Taking pills should only be done under the strict supervision of a doctor. In addition to consulting a gynecologist, recommendations from a phlebologist are necessary.

• For uterine fibroids

– a benign tumor of the uterus caused by hormonal imbalances. When small in size, it does not cause discomfort and is not an indication for surgery. The tumor becomes dangerous and requires removal if it grows rapidly and is large in size. Taking hormonal contraceptives with this diagnosis is problematic, since third-party interference with hormonal levels can lead to disruptions and intensive tumor growth.

Mini-pills for fibroids can be prescribed to women under 40 years of age. In this case, the choice of remedy can only be made by a doctor. In case of complications with other contraindications, it is advisable to choose another method of contraception.

• For endometriosis

It also belongs to hormonally dependent diseases. Pathological proliferation of endometrial cells causes pain during menstruation, urination and bowel movements, and heavy discharge during menstruation.

For endometriosis, mini-pills can have a therapeutic effect. They are prescribed to women under 35 years of age, with the first and second severity of the disease. Contraindications for use are similar to general warnings: malignant tumors of the breast and genital organs, uterine bleeding, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, severe pathologies of the liver and gall bladder.

• For mastopathy

Modern hormonal contraceptives are used not only for protection, but also for the treatment of diseases caused by hormonal imbalances in the body. For cases that belong to this type of disease, hormonal drugs with sufficient amounts of estrogen and progesterone are prescribed. Mini-pills contain a small amount of components, so their effectiveness in treating the disease will be low.

• For hypertension

Since these drugs have a more gentle effect on the body, their use is quite acceptable after consultation with a doctor.

How do mini-pills affect basal temperature?

Prescribing hormonal contraceptives allows you to maintain hormone levels at approximately the same level. Minor fluctuations in the latter are allowed. But since ovulation is suppressed, there are no rises signaling the maturation of the egg.

After discontinuation of the drug, the basal temperature chart returns to normal almost immediately.

How to take contraceptives correctly?

The low probability of pregnancy (7%) when taking mini-pills should not frighten women. If you follow the instructions and time of administration, there is no reason to fear an unwanted pregnancy. In this case, you need to follow some rules:

1. Choose the most appropriate time of day to take the pill. It is better if this is the time when the woman takes a shower and gets ready for bed. Daytime and morning hours are less suitable, since in the bustle of various activities you can forget about the pill. The time of administration should not be disrupted or rescheduled, since even a shift of several hours can significantly reduce the contraceptive effect.
2. The tablets are taken daily until the package runs out.
3. Reception from the next package should begin the very next day after the end of the previous one. You cannot take breaks between them.
4. You can start the course on any day of the menstrual cycle. The first day of menstruation will be the most optimal; in this case, protection will become reliable the very next day. On other days of the cycle, protection is less reliable, so for the next two days you need to either avoid intimacy or use other means of contraception, such as condoms.
5. After a miscarriage or abortion, the first pill should be taken within the first five days.
6. If a woman forgets to take a pill at the appointed time, she should do so immediately after remembering her mistake. The remaining tablets should be taken as usual. There is no need to worry, the contraceptive effect will remain. However, regular omissions significantly reduce efficiency. If 2 or more tablets are missed during the menstrual cycle, additional contraception is required!
7. Severe nausea, vomiting, and severe stool disorders indicate that mini-pills do not have an effective effect. You need to seek help from a doctor who will help you choose another, more effective drug.
8. Mini-pills can change the pattern of menstruation. The discharge may become less abundant, and the cycle itself may become longer. Such changes are not a deviation from the norm and do not require treatment or discontinuation of the drug. If a woman decides to become pregnant, her menstrual cycle will resume within a short time after stopping the contraceptive.

Women should be wary if they experience prolonged heavy bleeding during menstruation or severe pain in the pelvic area. The last two signs may indicate an ectopic pregnancy, when a fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube. In this case, the only treatment option is urgent surgery.

Mini-pill preparations

Which mini-pills should you choose among the large selection offered in pharmacies? In this case, it is best to follow your doctor's recommendations. A drug that is ideal for one woman may be less effective for another. We offer a description of the most common means. Familiarization with their action will help you determine in the future with your doctor which of them are best to use individually.

"Charosetta"

A contraceptive suppresses the maturation of the egg and its release into the fallopian tube. The active ingredient is desogestrel. Reception begins on the first day of the menstrual cycle. After curettage or abortion, the pill should be taken on the same day; after the birth of the child - three weeks. Breastfeeding is not a contraindication. It is permissible to take a contraceptive for migraines and pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

At the beginning of use, side effects are possible: urticaria, thrush, liver problems (jaundice). For most women, side effects go away with longer use of the product. The appearance of vomiting indicates an overdose. If you observe regularity, negative phenomena disappear without treatment.

"Microlut"

Low-dose gestagenic hormonal agent. The active substance is levonorgestrel. The drug inhibits the release of the egg, although it does not completely suppress ovulation. But even such a gentle action is enough to prevent an unwanted pregnancy from occurring. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it eliminates pain during menstruation and makes it less abundant.

Prescribed with caution for migraines, epilepsy, tuberculosis, kidney pathologies, if the woman has previously had an ectopic pregnancy. The first tablet is taken on the first day of the menstrual cycle. The frequency of use should be strictly observed; no more than 24 hours should pass between taking two tablets. If this frequency is violated, the next pill is taken within three hours and additional contraceptives are used.

The instructions for the drug contain a fairly large list of other medications that can reduce the contraceptive effect. A woman's excess body weight may also reduce the effectiveness of the drug. After discontinuation of Microlute, reproductive function is restored very quickly, pregnancy occurs within one menstrual cycle.

"Exluton"

The active ingredient is linestrenol, which is similar in action to progesterone. These mini-pills are identical in their use to other drugs in this group. It should be noted that the effectiveness is significantly reduced if more than 25-27 hours pass between doses, as well as when they are combined with certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants. The appearance of diarrhea and severe nausea indicates a decrease in the contraceptive effect.

Exluton is acceptable for hypertension, a tendency to form blood clots, heart and kidney failure. Side effects may occur: skin rashes, vaginal discharge, hardening of the mammary glands, headaches, changes in emotional background. Sometimes a slight increase in body weight is possible. If side effects do not stop for a long time, a doctor’s consultation is indicated and a possible change in the drug is recommended.

You should remember the rules for storing the mini-pill. They should be kept in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.

It is impossible to give a definite answer which of the listed remedies is most effective. The main rule that a woman should follow is compliance with regular appointments and timely observation by a gynecologist. Following the instructions will help you properly protect yourself and plan your pregnancy.

Many married couples who are sexually active think about reliable methods of contraception. The gynecologist offers many modern options, such as the use of condoms, spermicides, insertion of a device into the uterine cavity and, of course, the use of birth control pills. The latter, due to their ease of use, accessibility and effectiveness, are especially in demand among women of childbearing age.

Today, pharmaceutical companies present a wide range of hormonal products that protect against unplanned pregnancy. Despite the fact that birth control pills can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription, a woman should definitely consult with her doctor to make sure that her choice is correct.

Hormonal-based drugs have a number of contraindications that can cause a serious blow to the health of a young body.

Birth control pills - brief information and classification

Birth control pills - oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used all over the world and are considered the most effective in terms of protection against unplanned pregnancy. These drugs are used by millions of women in civilized countries. Before prescribing pills, the doctor takes into account such aspects as the presence of diseases of the reproductive system, hormonal imbalance in general, as well as the age category of the patient who contacted him.

All birth control pills are divided into two classes: combination pills and mini-pills.

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs)

These products contain synthetic hormones - estrogen and progesterone, which temporarily “turn off” the paired organs responsible for the safety, maturity and release of the follicle - the ovaries. Consequently, the egg involved in conception is not produced, which means that conception will not occur.

"Minimal pills", or mini-pills
Birth control pills contain low doses of progestin (300–500 mcg), which is an artificial version of progesterone. The hormone helps change the nature of cervical mucus, significantly thickening it. This becomes a real obstacle to the penetration of the male reproductive cell into the uterus for subsequent meeting with the egg.

If conception does occur, then other protective functions are triggered. The action of progestin changes the internal lining tissue of the uterus, so the attachment of the egg and subsequent engraftment is not possible. At the same time, changes in the peristalsis of the fallopian tubes are observed, which are responsible for transporting the fertilized egg to the smooth muscle organ in which pregnancy develops (the uterus). Also, in half of the cases, ovulation is blocked (egg maturation).

Due to their mild action, “mini-pill” contraceptive pills are prescribed even to those women who have contraindications to taking COCs (for example, when breastfeeding). Preparations of the “minimal pills” group – “Charozetta”, “Laktinet”, “Mikronor”, ​​“Ovret”.

Typically, by the age of 30, many women who already have children think about the need for subsequent pregnancies. Also, by this age, certain functional changes in hormonal levels occur, which negatively affect the condition of hair, nails and skin.

Thus, taking some birth control pills for women after 30 years of age will allow them to immediately “kill two birds with one stone” - protect against unplanned pregnancy, and also improve (sometimes even slightly rejuvenate) their appearance. The main thing is to make the right choice.

Many women ask their doctor about how effective birth control pills are and which ones are better after 30? Typically, gynecologists at this age recommend single-phase oral contraceptives.

Sometimes the doctor is asked which birth control pills are best for those giving birth? If a woman has already given birth, then the drugs prescribed are those that contain a low and medium dose of active hormones. – “Jess”, “Logest”, “Lindynet”.

Mini-pill contraceptive pills at 35 years old: why exactly them?

In rare cases, women after thirty-five years of age decide to have a child. In addition, at this age, every third representative of the fairer sex has problems with excess weight, diseases of the reproductive system and hormonal imbalances. Given these facts, are birth control pills even necessary after age 35? Which ones are better to choose?

Contraceptive pills "mini-pills", unlike COCs, do not affect body weight, which is an important aspect for every representative of the fairer sex. In addition, “minimal pills” help to a small extent to cope with reproductive dysfunction, so they can be safely taken for “women’s” diseases (not of an oncological nature).

Safety, lack of toxicity, minimal content of hubbub - all this is typical for the “mini-pill”.

Psychologists also point out an interesting fact. Many girls who smoked in their youth, during pregnancy and after the birth of a child, tried to give up the addiction. However, when the children grew up, some women returned to smoking again. Usually this “turning point” period of life occurs precisely at the age of 35 years.

The fact of nicotine addiction must be reported to the doctor, since birth control pills and smoking, acting simultaneously on the body, double the risk of thrombosis and cholesterol plaques in the blood vessels.

Subsequently, this can lead to atherosclerosis, stroke, heart attack, as well as disruption of the blood supply to the myocardium.

“Mini-pill” tablets, which have a “lighter” effect, are allowed for nicotine addiction. Women who smoke after 35 can use these contraceptive pills only after a preliminary examination!

The number of forty-year-old representatives of the fairer sex who want to become a “young” mother is sharply declining. In addition, women are already “accumulating” chronic diseases, which can adversely affect the course of pregnancy.

Geneticists also note that after 40 years, there is a high probability of chromosomal mutations, and one of the most common is Down syndrome. Doctors often recommend using birth control pills to protect against unplanned pregnancy. Which ones are better after 40 years?

This age is characterized by excessive production of the hormone estrogen, which subsequently leads to the proliferation of endometrial cells (disease - endometriosis), the formation of dysplasia and polyposis of the uterine cavity (precancerous conditions).

To prevent and inhibit the development of the pathological course, it is recommended to use the hormone progesterone, which is contained in sufficient quantities in “mini-pill” tablets.

These birth control pills also thicken the mucus in the vestibule of the cervix, inhibit ovulation, thereby preventing sperm from penetrating into the uterine cavity.

“Emergency” birth control pills (72 hours)

Sometimes women find themselves in an unexpected situation of “open” intimacy, in other words, when a man’s semen ends up in the vagina (for example, when a condom breaks). In this case, there is a high risk of pregnancy and, if it is undesirable, you can take a hormonal drug for 3 days that helps suppress ovulation.

There are two types of action of hormonal drugs: based on an active synthetic progestogen (levonorgestrel) and a steroidal antiprogestogen component (mifepristone). Contraceptive pills after the act: “Postinor”, ​​“Escapelle”, “Eskinor F”.

It should be remembered that hormonal “emergency” pills contain a huge concentration of hormones, so these drugs should not be taken systematically. According to the instructions for use, the permissible frequency of their use is once a quarter.

It should also be borne in mind that hormonal remedies for unplanned conception do not protect against bacterial, viral and fungal infections, which can be transmitted from a sick person to a healthy partner during sexual intercourse. Tablets should be used by partners who are completely confident in each other’s health. In situations where casual sex is planned, it is better to additionally use a condom to protect yourself from dangerous diseases.

At least half a dozen types of contraceptives have been invented - medicinal, and designed for physical impact. These are condoms, the uterine device, spermicides or birth control pills.

Not everyone likes sexual contact with a condom, and the IUD is installed for a long time, which limits family planning.

What contraceptives to choose after 35 years?

There are many groups, subgroups, and types of oral medications, each with its own positive and negative aspects.

It is better to select them under the supervision of a gynecologist. He knows which remedy is suitable for a woman and will minimize harmful consequences or avoid them.

New generation birth control pills are suitable after 35 years, but it is better to select them under the supervision of a specialist.

Microdosed OCs, as the name logically suggests, contain a completely tiny amount of hormones. The drugs are safe, but their effectiveness is not the highest.

The drugs are suitable for young girls and those who use these drugs for the first time - to avoid affecting hormonal levels. They are recommended for nulliparous women:

• Claira;
• Lindinet;
• Logest;
• Miniziston.

Low-dose OCs are a commonly used type of birth control pill. The dose of hormones in these drugs is higher. That is, low-dose medications are the best birth control pills after 35 years.

List of common tablets:

• Janine;
• Lindinet;
• Tri-Mercy;
• Chloe.

Such products can improve the condition of the skin and hair, and smooth out the manifestations of skin diseases such as seborrhea and acne.

Such tablets can help slow down the process of alopecia due to their antiandrogenic effect. If you use modern contraceptives, then for women over 35 years of age this option is better than others, but young girls can also take it

High-dose OCs contain significant doses of hormones and are taken as prescribed by a specialist.

• Triquilar;
• Non-Ovlon;
• Ovidon.

Mini-pills are a completely separate group of oral contraceptives that contain only one hormone, progestogen.

They affect the endometrium of the uterus: its structure becomes unsuitable for attachment and implantation of the egg.

Mini-pills are an even safer remedy than the first two types of combination drugs and can be prescribed even during lactation. If standard COCs are contraindicated for a woman, doctors recommend mini-pills. This is a good contraceptive option for women after 35 years of age due to its strong effect on the endocrine system.

Drugs of this type:

• Charosetta;
• Microlute;
• Orgametril;
• Lactinet.

Positive aspects of taking hormonal contraceptives

From about thirty-five or forty years old, changes are inevitable in the female body. The production of hormones (estradiol, progesterone) decreases, ovarian function is inhibited.

As prescribed by the doctor, the amount of the component consumed can reach up to seventy micrograms.

Women over thirty-five sometimes suffer from hormonal imbalances; high-dose pills are designed to solve this problem.

By normalizing hormonal levels, they affect health, skin, and hair. They should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor, otherwise the effect will be the opposite.

Taking almost all contraceptives for women over 35 years of age cannot harm them if everything is done according to the instructions, in consultation with a doctor.
The disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives are side effects and complications. Women who take them face the development of hypertension, an increased risk of blood clots, and varicose veins.

Certain types of tablets increase the need for insulin, which is dangerous if you have diabetes. Even the type of OC carefully chosen by a specialist has some effect on the body.

Features of the selection of hormonal contraceptives

Any contraceptive is selected under the guidance of a gynecologist. After a series of medical examinations, he will determine the phenotype and prescribe a suitable remedy.

The types of development of the female body are determined by certain characteristics: skin condition, breast development, body hair, height, characteristics of the menstrual cycle.

Depending on how all the features are combined, three types are distinguished:

1. In one of them, estrogens dominated in the body during the girl’s development. Manifests itself in short to medium height, increased dryness of hair and skin, and a menstrual cycle longer than four weeks. Recommended as low-dose and high-dose products
2. The other type, on the contrary, turned out to be dominated by androgens. Characterized by above average height, undeveloped mammary glands, oily skin and problem hair. The cycle is short, not clearly expressed, before menstruation there is strong pain in the lower abdomen. Drugs with an antiandrogenic effect are prescribed.
3. In the third type, androgens and estrogens were balanced. This type has good, normal hair and skin condition, normally developed breasts, and no discomfort during the premenstrual period. Combined contraceptives of all types are recommended for use.

Smoking and taking birth control pills

Smoking while using oral contraceptives is prohibited due to the increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Since after thirty-five to forty years, problems with hormonal levels often arise in the female body, a situation may arise in which the use of hormonal COCs is contraindicated. Thus, it is necessary to look for other contraceptive options. For example, non-hormonal products are spermicides, available in the form of vaginal tablets, creams and suppositories.

available after 35 years, are called “Postinor” or “Escapelle”. Their price is usually 300-400 rubles per package.

How likely is pregnancy when using COCs?

Remember: no method of drug contraception provides a complete guarantee of the absence of pregnancy. The effectiveness of modern contraceptives for women after 35 years of age reaches 98%, but the remaining two percent can manifest themselves.

When using drugs without a doctor's prescription, the effectiveness of the tablets is reduced. To avoid unwanted pregnancy, consult a specialist.

If, on the contrary, you want to give birth to a child, doctors can provoke the so-called rebound effect. That is, after stopping the drug, the cycle is restored and female sex hormones are produced in greater quantities. This allows full conception to occur.

Opinion of doctors and patients

The opinion of doctors on this topic agrees that at thirty-five to forty years old it is not difficult to choose suitable oral contraceptives. The main thing is to consult with your doctor which birth control pills are best to take and follow his recommendations.

Women using this method of contraception noted a general improvement in their condition, due to the normalization of hormonal levels, and relief from skin problems, pimples and acne.

The use of hormonal drugs for women after 35 is indicated more than the use of other contraceptives. If you follow all doctor's orders, there is a chance to avoid unwanted pregnancy and improve your health. .

Every woman tries to take care of her health. Reproductive function is a pressing issue, as the number of abortions increases every year.

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There are birth control pills without side effects

And such procedures can lead to infertility, subsequent miscarriages and the inability to bear a child in the future. To prevent unplanned pregnancy, contraception should be used.

How do modern new generation tablets work?

Medicine is developing and provides a choice of remedies, among which you can choose the ones without side effects.

The best results in terms of effectiveness are shown by birth control pills based on artificially created sex hormones.

Their advantage is a high level of protection and the absence of side effects. Without taking hormones, a woman’s body quickly recovers, which leads to a planned pregnancy.

Hormones affect not only reproductive function, but also contribute to improvements in the condition of nails, skin and hair. Taking such contraceptives has a positive effect on a woman’s body and well-being.

Jess is one of the most popular contraceptives

Interesting fact! The effect of modern hormonal drugs is based on the suppression of ovulation and changes in the structure in the internal cavity of the uterus, which makes the conception of an embryo unbearable.

Even if the egg is fertilized, pregnancy does not occur. This effect is achieved due to ethinyl estradiol and progestin, which are artificial hormones included in the medications.

Also, products containing hormones thicken the mucus that passes through the cervical canal, which keeps sperm from entering the uterine cavity.

Hormonal drugs represent a multi-stage protection that protects against pregnancy by 98%.

Advantages of mini-pill contraceptives

One of the best birth control pills that help protect the body from the birth of an embryo without side effects are mini-pill contraceptives.

Taking contraceptives has long been practiced by women in Western countries on a regular basis.

The difference between such contraceptives and hormonal ones is that Minipill contraceptives contain only progestane. Therefore, the mini-pill can be used during lactation, which is a definite advantage.

Mini-pills affect the cervical mucus, making it thicker; also, under the influence of progestan, the structure of the mucous membrane on the inner wall of the uterus changes, which prevents pregnancy.

The best birth control pills for women under 35

Be careful! When choosing birth control pills without side effects, there is no need to succumb to advertising and choose the most popular means, because it is not a fact that they are the best.

At a young age, it is important for a girl to choose the right contraceptive

Before purchasing any drug, you should consult your gynecologist. Because When choosing contraceptives, you need to pay attention to the slightest nuances, such as the woman’s age, frequency of sexual intercourse, general condition of the body and the number of contact partners.

The best contraceptive pills without side effects for young women and those who have not given birth are microdosed contraceptives with the least amount of hormones.

Such drugs include:

• Yarina;
• Logest;
• Movinet;
• Mercilon;

If drugs with small doses of hormones do not help, then low-dose drugs should be used, such as Janine, Microgynon, Belaru, Silest, Femoden, Regulon. They are also suitable for women under 35 years of age.

Janine

Janine's tablets contain steroids like progesterone and estrogen. The difference between this drug and other contraceptives is that it contains dienogest, a new generation hormone.

Janine is a lightweight medicine. The principle of its action is based on regulating the course of menstruation by inhibiting ovulation.

The drug Janine is also prescribed in the treatment of endometriosis.

Yarina

Many experts are confident that one of the best in the price = quality category, an effective remedy for unexpected pregnancy is the contraceptive Yarina.

Yarina (tablets) - an effective contraceptive

Once in the female body, this remedy reduces the active activity of male hormones, which, in addition to pregnancy, affect the occurrence of pimples and blackheads on the skin. Therefore, Yarina’s drug helps cleanse the skin of imperfections.

Among other things, Yarina helps cleanse the skin of imperfections

This contraceptive also reduces pain during menstruation and alleviates the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Since the drug contains drospirenone, taking the tablets does not affect body weight in any way.

Regulon

One of the most common contraceptives is Regulon. The main components included in its composition are ethinyl estradiol and gestagen.

Regulon (tablets) - an effective contraceptive

In addition to its direct purpose, Regulon is prescribed for the treatment of irregularities in the menstrual cycle, dysmenorrhea and dysfunctional bleeding in the uterine cavity.

This remedy also helps eliminate PMS symptoms. The contraceptive in question should not be taken while breastfeeding or during pregnancy.

Logest

Logest tablets are prescribed to restore the menstrual cycle and prevent pregnancy. After starting to take the medication, the amount of discharge during menstruation decreases, which reduces the likelihood of a woman developing iron deficiency anemia.

Logest is an effective contraceptive

This contraceptive also minimizes a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer, breast disease and inflammation of the reproductive organs.

New generation contraceptive pills for women over 35 years of age

For women in the late reproductive period with regular sexual activity and who have given birth, medium-dose medications are recommended. They will provide a high level of protection and normalize the menstrual cycle.

There are special contraceptives for women over 35

The best birth control pills without side effects for mature women:

1. Chloe.
2. Trisiston.
3. Triquilar.
4. Femulen.
5. Tri-regol.
6. Marvelon.

Contraceptives with a high content of hormones are used only for treatment, strictly as prescribed by a doctor. They can also be prescribed in cases where medium-dose medications do not help.

High-dose hormone tablets are suitable for women who have several children and are in their late reproductive period.

Triquilar

The difference between the contraceptive drug Triquilar is the form of its release in the form of pills. The package contains pills for a month and a dosage regimen. Moreover, each tablet contains a different content of active substances, since each tablet corresponds to a specific day of the menstrual cycle.

Triquilar is one of the most popular contraceptives

Note! When taking this medication, menstruation may begin with a week delay.

The full degree of protection when using Triquilar occurs after 2 weeks of daily use. Therefore, at first you should use auxiliary protective equipment.

You can take Triquilar after abortion and childbirth, at the onset of your first menstruation. When taking a contraceptive during breastfeeding, the amount of milk produced may decrease.

Femulen

Femulen contraceptive pills are popular among breastfeeding women, as they are safe for the body and do not have a negative effect on the mother and child.

The main active ingredients are norethindrone and levonorgestrol.

Some birth control pills are designed for women who are breastfeeding

This drug is not the most effective, but its use is advisable for maintaining lactation

Femulen is prescribed if a woman has contraindications to contraceptives containing gestagens and estrogens. This remedy is preferable for older women, since at this time the likelihood of developing blood clots and problems with blood pressure increases.

Marvelon

One of the effective contraceptive drugs is Marvelon. It is suitable for both older women and young women who have not yet given birth, since it contains insignificant hormones.

Marvelon is an effective contraceptive

Marvelon is intended for women who have frequent sexual relations. This drug provides a guarantee of protection in 99% of cases. Also, these pills are safe for health and help eliminate problems during menstruation. Marvelon is also prescribed for problems with premenstrual syndrome.

The main ingredients of the product are norgistimate, ethinyl stradiol and gestodene, which have a positive effect on facial skin. They also reduce the growth of vegetation in undesirable places and normalize the content of hormones in the body.

Over time, the body gets used to any contraceptive. Therefore, in order to avoid undesirable consequences, it is necessary to strictly follow the instructions and take breaks from taking the drug.

Don't neglect your birth control pills to avoid unplanned pregnancy and stay healthy.

In this video you will learn about the benefits and harms of birth control pills:

The following video will tell you how to take birth control pills:

In the following video you will learn about what hormonal contraception is:

It is difficult to say how barbaric modern methods of contraception will be considered by our descendants, because the most progressive and safe contraceptives of two hundred years ago look today like an instrument of torture. It is known, for example, that in the Middle Ages women put iron caps on the cervix, lubricated it with a solution of mercury and lead, and inserted pessaries made of steel wire into it, which caused infection and bedsores of the reproductive organs. At different times and in different countries, contraceptives were continually prohibited either by the authorities or by the church, so devices such as a vaginal syringe or a vaginal douche periodically appeared on sale, which were used to cleanse the internal female organs.

Current contraceptives promote the principle of safety and guaranteed protection against unwanted pregnancy. Three types of contraceptives are justified and approved by official medicine: physiological, barrier and medicinal.

• Barrier. Prevents sperm from entering the uterus. The most famous barrier contraceptive is the condom (both male and female). Other barrier contraceptives are intrauterine devices, contraceptive sponges, cervical caps, and spermicides.
• Physiological. They suggest having sexual intercourse on certain days of the female cycle, when the risk of getting pregnant is minimal. Another method of physiological control is the PPA (coitus interruptus) method.
• Medication. They are presented in tablets, as well as vaginal rings and coils that release hormones that block the onset of ovulation.

When prescribing a woman a certain method of contraception, gynecologists often give her the opportunity to independently choose the appropriate method from a number of similar ones. But how can this be done if the same drug has dozens of analogues, identical in composition and mode of action? The rating of the best contraceptives takes into account the opinions of other women, the cost of the drugs, the correspondence between the expected effect and the real one, as well as the presence of additional benefits and side effects.

We remind you that the information provided below is not a purchase guide. Consultation required with a specialist!

There are contraindications. Consult your doctor.

The best birth control pills

It has long been proven that prolonged absence of pregnancy can disrupt a woman’s health, causing hormonal imbalance, as well as mental and organ diseases associated with it. The Frenchman Verne Boullot, a historian by profession, spoke about this back in the 19th century: “If a woman is not regularly pregnant, she will suffer from hysteria and from a whole category of somatic symptoms stimulating almost any kind of physical illness or mental condition.” At the same time, unwanted pregnancy and abortion can cause no less harm to a woman than a prolonged absence of pregnancy.

Millions of women around the world choose hormonal contraceptives as their preferred method of contraception. They do not affect sensations during sexual intercourse and are guaranteed to protect against unwanted pregnancy and the consequences of its absence. The action of hormonal contraceptives is based on the prevention of ovulation. Scientists have calculated that at the time of birth, a girl’s ovaries contain about 1 million follicles capable of becoming eggs, and by the age of 37 only 25,000 remain. Hormonal drugs do not allow the body to ovulate, so a woman’s ovarian reserve remains full. Meanwhile, hormonal pills have not only advantages, but also an impressive list of side effects, often life-threatening.

3 Lactinet
The best contraceptive for adult women

Unlike Jess and Marvelon, Lactinet contains a single active ingredient - desogestrel. Belongs to the category of mini-pills (drugs containing a minimal amount of hormones). Lactinet mini-pills are often prescribed to nursing women with an active menstrual cycle, as well as to those women for whom combined OCs are contraindicated. Lactinet is one of the few oral contraceptives prescribed to women who smoke, as well as women over 45 years of age.

Another feature of the Hungarian OC is that its protective effect against unwanted pregnancy is somewhat lower than that of modern COCs. For this reason, the drug is not recommended for use by women of active reproductive age (up to 30 years). Otherwise, it is a fairly effective contraceptive, with a smaller list of contraindications and side effects than modern pills.

Advantages:

• allowed during lactation;
• does not affect weight gain;
• Suitable for those who are intolerant to synthetic estrogens.

Flaws:

• provokes the occurrence of mastopathy;
• disrupts the menstrual cycle during use;
• causes depression;
• causes nausea at the beginning of the course.

2 Marvelon

The most inexpensive remedy

Combined contraceptive drug from the Dutch company Organon. Approved for use by women over 35 years of age, as it contains a reduced amount of active ingredients. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it normalizes the volume of discharge and eliminates pain during menstruation. Can be used as emergency contraception, but not more than once every 6 months. The effectiveness of Marvelon as a post-coital remedy does not exceed 80%.

According to women who have taken Marvelon, the drug has a negative effect on the ability to get pregnant if used for many years, so it is recommended to take these pills in courses. Given the increased risk of thrombosis, before taking the drug it is recommended to undergo examination by a hematologist, hepatologist and vascular surgeon.

Advantages:

• is inexpensive;
• normalizes the cycle;
• increases libido.

Flaws:

• causes acne;
• thickens the blood;
• increases appetite.

1 Jess

The best birth control pills

Jess is a combined oral contraceptive from the German pharmaceutical company Bayer. The active ingredients are drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. Used to protect against unwanted pregnancy, for severe forms of PMS, and also for the treatment of acne. The contraceptive effect of the pill is based on blocking ovulation and changing the quality of cervical mucus, which becomes too thick for sperm to move through.

Unlike other COCs with the same active ingredient, the Jess formula has been improved: it uses drospironene of the latest (4th) generation, and each tablet contains 1.5 times less ethinyl estradiol than other COCs. For this reason, Jess is less likely than other drugs to cause swelling, mastopathy and weight gain.

Advantages:

• eliminates menstrual pain;
• improves skin condition.

Flaws:

• the cycle takes a long time to recover after completing the Jess course;
• addictive;
• reduces libido;
• causes migraines.

Contraceptive suppositories belong to the category of spermicidal contraceptives. The principle of action of chemical spermicides is to destroy the sperm membrane: interacting with sperm, the components of the drug destroy their membrane, separate the head from the tail, depriving them of the ability to move. Particularly strong sperm, however, are still able to reach the egg and fertilize it. This may result in the birth of a child with certain physical deformities. This relationship has not been proven, but many women testify to it. It is not recommended to use such contraceptives regularly, because the acids contained in the suppositories can have a negative effect on the condition of the vaginal mucosa, as well as on the cervix. Suppositories do not have the highest contraceptive ability. According to statistics, 15 out of 100 women who use contraceptive suppositories become pregnant within a year.

Thus, contraceptive suppositories are a convenient birth control option for women who rarely have sex. Suppositories are ideal as an additional contraceptive - when the pill regimen has been disrupted or during the completion of lactation. The undoubted advantages of this method of contraception are the absence of systemic effects on the body and the preservation of intimate sensations.

3 Gynekotex
The best cost of contraceptive suppositories

Ginekotex suppositories use the same active ingredient as Pharmatex suppositories - benzalkonium chloride, so these products are similar. The fundamental difference between Ginekotex and Pharmatex is the cost: Russian suppositories are about 3 times cheaper than German ones. Some women note that these suppositories dissolve slightly less well in the vagina and produce more foam.

Advantages:

• are inexpensive;
• do not cause burning;
• protect against infections.

Flaws:

• take a long time to dissolve.

2 Patentex Oval
The most popular remedy

The main active ingredient in Pantex Oval is nonoxynol. Included in many contraceptives as a lubricant: thanks to its spermicidal properties, it enhances the contraceptive effect of cervical caps, condoms, sponges and vaginal films. When interacting with a sperm, it damages its membrane, thereby depriving it of the ability to dissolve the egg membrane. The time required for sperm destruction is 40 seconds (10 times longer than Pharmatex). The drug does not have bactericidal or antiviral properties, so it cannot be used as protection against STIs. There are studies showing that nonoxynol contributes to the incidence of certain types of human papillomavirus in humans.

Advantages:

• effective;
• dissolve quickly;
• have an exciting effect.

Flaws:

• have an unpleasant odor;
• cause itching;
• foams excessively.

1 Pharmatex
The best contraceptive suppositories

The main component of the drug is benzalkonium chloride. This drug has been used in medicine since 1935. It has not only a contraceptive effect, but also an antiviral (protects against infection by herpes simplex viruses), antifungal and antiprotozoal. The substance has an immediate effect on the sperm: its shell is completely destroyed within 10 seconds after contact with benzalkonium chloride. The rest of the drugs in this group require at least 30 seconds. Due to irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix, the drug is able to increase the volume of mucus released, which has an additional contraceptive effect.

Advantages:

• have a pleasant smell;
• dissolve in 5 minutes;
• protect against infections.

Flaws:

• cause irritation;
• do not open well;
• I provoke too much mucus.

The best intrauterine contraceptive devices

The intrauterine device is a contraceptive device that has been well known since the times of Ancient China. In the past, spirals were made of aluminum wire and wood, and today they are made of hypoallergenic plastic impregnated with anti-inflammatory compounds. In terms of its action, the spiral is classified as a barrier, abortifacient and spermicide at the same time.

• Decreased fertility. The presence of an inflammatory process in the uterus promotes the production of proteins that inhibit the maturation of the egg. As a result, ovulation is inhibited and fertilization does not occur.
• Abortive effect. Located inside the uterus, the IUD negatively affects the endometrium, inhibiting its growth and ability to accept a fertilized egg. In fact, the IUD provokes miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.
• Spermicidal effect. In response to the located spiral, superficial inflammation occurs inside the uterus. As a result of inflammation, the alkaline environment in the uterus is replaced by an acidic one, which is harmful to sperm and contributes to their destruction. To increase the acidity of the intrauterine space, copper is additionally used in the coils, which stimulates the secretion of acidic secretions.
• Barrier contraceptive effect. The inflammatory process causes irritation of the cervical canal, which, in turn, produces an increased amount of thick cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from penetrating into the uterus.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a reliable and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, which, however, is associated with the creation of a focus of chronic infection in the body.

3 Spiral Nova T
The most affordable non-hormonal IUD

Germany (made in Finland)

Nova T is a non-hormonal IUD shaped like the letter T. Its base is made of hypoallergenic plastic, which is wrapped in copper wire. In order to enhance X-ray permeability, barium sulfate is added to the plastic - it allows you to determine the position of the spiral during an X-ray examination, if necessary.

Advantages:

• not noticeable by partners during sex;
• has an affordable price.

Flaws:

• provokes heavy discharge during menstruation;
• increases pain during menstruation;
• reduces libido.

2 Mirena
The best hormonal IUD

Mirena belongs to the category of hormone-containing spirals, therefore the principle of its action is similar to that characteristic of hormonal tablets. The fundamental difference is only in the method of delivering hormones to the body. True, according to some women, the hormonal IUD, unlike OK, does not cause increased appetite, does not provoke swelling and does not cause irritation of the digestive organs. Like Multiload, Mirena is installed for 5 years.

Advantages:

• normalizes hormonal levels;
• inexpensive hormonal contraceptive;
• reliably protects against pregnancy.

Flaws:

• requires large one-time expenses;
• causes back pain;
• contraindicated in the presence of benign tumors.

1 Multiload
The best intrauterine device

Multiload is a spiral made of plastic and copper. It looks like a rounded T with uneven surfaces that prevent the device from slipping out of the uterus. Aseptic inflammation in the uterus is provoked by copper wire wrapped around a plastic carrier. Interacting with an alkaline environment, copper wire releases about 30 mcg of copper oxide daily. The contraceptive effect of Multiload lasts for 5 years.

Advantages:

• reliably protects against pregnancy;
• economical;
• doesn't fall out.

Flaws:

• provokes inflammation;
• increases the duration of menstruation;
• causes discomfort after installation.

The best barrier contraceptives

Barrier contraception is the oldest, cheapest, most universal and widespread method of contraception. A typical representative of this category is a condom. Less known are contraceptive sponges and rings, cervical caps, vaginal films and diaphragms, as well as chemical barrier agents (suppositories, aerosols, gels). There are practically no contraindications to the use of these drugs, so they are ideal for those who are intolerant to OCs or IUDs. Some barrier contraceptives can prevent premature ejaculation in men and protect against STIs and allergic reactions to ejaculate in women. The main disadvantage of barrier products is that they only act at the moment of their use. Our rating includes the best barrier contraceptives - the Nuvaring ring and Pharmatex sponges.

2 Pharmatex contraceptive sponges
The best spermicide

Contraceptive sponges have been used by women as a barrier method for many centuries: in ancient times they were sea sponges soaked in oils, and today they are polyurethane foam soaked in chemical spermicidal compounds. Pharmatex sponges use benzalkonium chloride as a spermicide. Unlike contraceptive suppositories, the sponge has not only a spermicidal effect, but also a mechanical one - it physically prevents the penetration of sperm into the cervix. Having installed the sponge, partners can immediately begin PA, and in the event of repeated sexual intercourse, they will not need to insert a new sponge into the vagina, since it retains its effect throughout the day.

Advantages:

• does not leak;
• convenient to insert;
• long lasting;
• has a pleasant smell.

Flaws:

• inconvenient to remove;
• difficult to find in pharmacies.

1 Nuvaring contraceptive ring
The best hormonal contraceptive

Nuvaring is one of the methods of hormonal contraception, which, however, uses a fundamentally different method of administering hormones - vaginal. Thanks to this, the hormone does not pass through the liver and gastrointestinal tract, and therefore does not have a negative effect on them. The ring releases the minimum required amount of hormone throughout the day, which eliminates hormonal surges throughout the day (as is the case with oral contraceptives) and creates an even hormonal background. Another advantage of the product is the confidentiality of its use: the ring is easy to install yourself, it is not felt during sexual intercourse and does not require removal after. Duration of action - 3 weeks. After 21 days, the ring is removed, and after 7 days it is installed again.

Advantages:

• installed once a month;
• does not cause nausea;
• has less pronounced side effects compared to OK.

Flaws:

• sometimes falls out when straining;
• causes headaches;
• provokes the development of vaginitis;
• allergic;
• increases appetite.

Attention! The information presented above is not a purchasing guide. For any advice you should contact specialists!

Pregnancy after thirty-five years is often undesirable, and, according to statistics, in half of the cases it is artificially terminated. Abortion is dangerous for women's health, so it is important to choose a reliable way to prevent conception. Oral contraception is considered to be the most effective method. The choice of birth control pills after 35 years must be approached especially carefully. Not all drugs are suitable for protection at this age; a number of drugs have contraindications. How to choose the right pills? What other methods can be used? Every woman who cares about her health should know about this.

A specialist will help you choose a drug individually

Types of birth control pills

Pharmacies offer a huge number of varieties of pills that protect against conception. It's easy to get confused in such diversity. The first thing that is important to remember: drugs are divided into two large groups:

• combined (COC);
• mini-drink.

What is the difference between these types of tablets? They differ in content and principle of operation. Each type is suitable for a certain age group and has its own contraindications. Naturally, comprehensive information on medications can only be obtained from a specialist: prepare your questions to your gynecologist.

COC: types and principle of action

COCs contain synthetic analogues of progestogen and estrogen. The drugs are divided into phase groups according to the variation of hormone-containing components:

• Monophasic. The content of the two hormones does not change per package.
• Two-phase. The amount of estrogen in each pill is the same, but the amount of progestogen varies between cycles.
• Three-phase. The package contains tablets with different hormone contents. The dose changes three times per cycle.

There is another classification of COCs: according to the quantitative indicator of active substances. There are three types of oral hormonal contraceptives:

1. Microdosed. Due to the minimal hormone content, the drugs are considered as safe as possible. However, they are not suitable for everyone. This is an ideal option for young girls. It is recommended to start getting acquainted with hormonal drugs for conception with such tablets.

Suitable tablets have a beneficial effect on appearance

Low dosage. They are optimally suited for protection in adulthood. They can be taken after childbirth (subject to cessation of lactation). The products are also indicated for young girls, but only if tablets with a microdose of hormones are not suitable for them. Such drugs also help improve appearance: if the tablets are chosen correctly, then in some cases they “work” to reduce skin greasiness and help get rid of acne and seborrhea.

2. Highly dosed. Due to their high hormone content, the pills can be dangerous. They can only be used as prescribed by a doctor. This type of COC is used in the treatment of hormonal imbalances and in the treatment of “female” diseases.

How do COCs “work”? The mechanism is simple: they block ovulation by inhibiting luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones. The main function of the ovaries is also blocked, the uterine mucosa changes, and the mucus of the cervical canal thickens. Combined contraceptives “work” on all fronts. Thanks to the pills, the path of sperm is hampered, and implantation becomes impossible. This principle of action is the key to the 100% effectiveness of the tablets (of course, if the dosage regimen is not violated).

What is a mini-pill

The main difference between a mini-pill and a COC is that it contains only one hormone. The active ingredient in monocomponent tablets is progestogen. Mini-pills do not affect the entire reproductive system, but certain areas of it. Under the influence of the pills, the structure of the endometrium changes. It becomes loose, which reduces the possibility of implantation to zero. Changes also affect the cervical fluid. By the middle of the cycle, there is a noticeable decrease in the volume of mucus, its viscosity remains the same in all phases. High viscosity of the cervical fluid is necessary to create unsuitable conditions for the movement of sperm. The mini-pill can also block ovulation, but the blocking occurs only half the time. At the same time, the pills are considered effective, because even in the presence of ovulation, implantation is impossible due to various changes in the body.

Mini-pills are popular among women who have recently given birth to babies. The advantages of the drugs include their compatibility with lactation. Mini-pills give a woman who has recently become a mother confidence that a new pregnancy will not occur until the body recovers. Mini-pills can be taken not only by breastfeeding women: the gynecologist prescribes such contraceptives if there are contraindications for taking COCs.

Tablets for the age group “35+”

From the age of 35, the reproductive system of women begins to gradually fade away. The production of two important hormones by the ovaries - estrogen and progesterone - is reduced. After this milestone, chronic diseases worsen, the risk of thrombosis increases, and the likelihood of heart problems increases. In order not to harm your own health, you need to take a responsible approach to choosing contraceptives. It is important that the pills aimed at preventing conception are:

The main conditions when choosing are safety and reliability

as reliable as possible;

• safe;
• with a minimum of side effects;
• with a high degree of tolerance.

Preference should be given to the latest generation drugs. Their improved formula minimizes the likelihood of side effects. Such tablets provide maximum protection against unplanned pregnancy, which is especially important after 35.

As for the dosage of hormones in drugs, women in this age category are recommended to take low-dose COCs. The fewer hormones the tablets contain, the higher their tolerance, which is important if the processes of decline of the reproductive system are started. The minimum dose of hormones after 35 is 20 mcg. This amount is contained in microdosed COCs, but they are rarely prescribed, because they are suitable for the protection of young girls. Usually, microdose tablets are used if for some reason a woman over 35 cannot choose a drug from the group of low-dose COCs.

Drugs with a high content of hormones can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. They are often prescribed for women aged 35+. At this age, diseases of the reproductive system make themselves felt, hormones become loose. Contraception helps cope with such problems.

Features of the selection of hormonal contraceptives

The selection of contraceptive pills should be done by a doctor. The prescription of drugs is preceded by anamnesis and various tests. This is the only way a gynecologist can determine which pills will not only be effective, but also safe. When prescribing contraceptives, the following are decisive:

• blood sugar test;
• liver enzyme test;
• assessment of blood fluid clotting;
• study of hormonal levels;
• oncocytology;
• ultrasound examination of the mammary glands and pelvis.

The determining factor is the presence of any chronic diseases. For some diseases (for example, problems with the liver, heart), hormonal pills are prohibited, while for others (endocrine diseases), on the contrary, such drugs are necessary.

If you choose contraceptives on your own, the consequences can be sad. A woman cannot objectively assess the condition of her body, hence a number of side effects: from sudden weight gain to diseases caused by hormonal imbalance.

The importance of phenotype in the selection of tablets

Not only test results are decisive when prescribing tablets. The selection of hormonal contraceptives is always carried out taking into account the constitutional and biological type of the patient. The decisive ones here are:

Self-administration of any drugs is very dangerous for health.

skin condition;

• body hair;
• height;
• body mass;
• breast development;
• features of menstruation;
• presence/absence of PMS.

According to constitutional and biological characteristics, three groups of women are distinguished. When prescribing contraceptives, the doctor must take into account the patient’s membership in a certain group. The following phenotypes are distinguished:

1. Estrogen dominance.
   Signs: Average/short height. Dry skin. Hair suffers from dryness. Feminine look. Prolonged menstruation, accompanied by significant discharge. The cycle consists of more than 4 weeks. Tablets: Low and high dose.
2. Balanced.
   Traits: Average height. The chest is medium, well developed. Good skin and hair condition. Absence of premenstrual phenomena. Menstruation occurs exactly four weeks later and lasts five days. Tablets: second generation COC.
3. Androgens/gestagens predominate.
   Signs: Tall. "Male" facial features. Underdeveloped breasts. Problem skin and oily hair. Short cycle with scanty menstruation. During the premenstrual period, severe pain in the lower abdomen is observed. Tablets: Containing an antiandrogenic component.

Some women mistakenly believe that, having determined their own phenotype, they can choose their own birth control pills. This approach to choosing hormonal contraceptives can lead to health problems. The gynecologist approaches the issue comprehensively: he takes into account the phenotype, anamnesis, and test results.

When hormonal contraception is prohibited

Oral contraceptives, although considered the most reliable protective method against unwanted conception, are not suitable for everyone. If a woman has not stopped smoking by the age of 35, then she is strictly prohibited from taking hormonal contraceptives. Nicotine, combined with hormonal fluctuations, increases the risk of thrombosis. After thirty-five, the risk of developing heart pathologies increases, which can be facilitated by heavy smoking while taking birth control pills.

Taking hormone-containing pills is prohibited if you have:

If you feel unwell, you should immediately consult a doctor

diabetes mellitus;

• migraine-like headaches of unknown etiology;
• liver pathologies;
• kidney diseases;
• heart diseases;
• malignant formations;
• predisposition to thrombosis.

Taking hormonal contraceptives should be stopped a month before the proposed surgery. Antibiotics reduce the effectiveness of contraception: due to changes in intestinal flora that occur while taking antibiotics, hormones are less absorbed.

Contraceptive injections

Everyone knows that hormonal contraceptives are recognized as the most effective. However, many women are confused by the need to take pills every day and follow a time schedule. If you do not follow the instructions, the guarantee will be null and void. Modern women after 35 years of age are burdened with caring for their family, building a career and engaging in self-development. In such a rhythm, it is easy to forget about taking the next pill. For these reasons, many active women choose contraceptive injections.

The action of injections is based on the same principle as oral medications. Injections also relate to hormonal protection. After the injections, ovulatory processes are suppressed, the cervix thickens, which eliminates the risk of conception. Compared to contraceptive pills, injections have a number of advantages:

• ease of use (the injection is given once every three months);
• high degree of protection due to the exclusion of force majeure;
• can be used for some female diseases (endometriosis, fibroids);
• have virtually no side effects.

Only a doctor can prescribe injections, and he also gives the injections. This method of protection is often recommended for use after 35. It is suitable for women with cardiovascular problems.

After injections, the menstrual cycle is almost always disrupted. Upon completion of adaptation, it returns to normal, but you should not use this method of protection for a long time, otherwise your period will increase. Weight gain is often observed after injections: in order not to gain weight, you will have to change your eating habits.

When choosing an injection method of contraception, you should not forget to visit the gynecological office once every six months. It is also important to regularly do oncocytology, pelvic ultrasound, and be examined by a mammologist.

Non-hormonal tablets

After a certain age, it is necessary to select contraceptives more carefully

After the age of 35, women often experience health problems. They make taking birth control pills with synthetic hormones impossible. However, it is important for older women to ensure reliable protection against conception, because pregnancy during this period is associated with numerous risks, and abortion can lead to irreversible consequences. New generation non-hormonal pills will come to the rescue. They belong to the group of spermicides. These tablets are intended for insertion into the vagina. This also includes gels, tampons, creams, but tablet preparations are considered the most effective.

The main component of the tablets are chemical compounds that have a negative effect on sperm. The active substances damage the sperm membrane, which leads to their death. Non-hormonal contraceptives thicken the mucus in the uterine canal, which is why sperm cannot reach their target. If particularly active sperm manage to break through the viscous liquid, they become so sluggish that fertilization is impossible.

New generation spermicides have additional protective properties. Vaginal contraceptive pills create a film on the mucous membrane through which fungus and some bacteria cannot penetrate. Non-hormonal contraception is recommended to be used in tandem with barrier protection to eliminate the likelihood of unplanned conception.

Who is suitable for vaginal tablets?

Although vaginal contraceptive pills do not contain hormones, their use must be agreed with your personal gynecologist. The components of the drug can cause allergies, so it is important to first make sure that this method of contraception is suitable in a particular case. If vaginal tablets are chosen incorrectly, itching, irritation, and allergic reactions may occur. The use of vaginal tablets to prevent pregnancy is indicated for:

• some gynecological diseases (fibroids);
• diabetes mellitus;
• contraindications to taking hormonal drugs;
• allergic reactions to latex;
• the onset of the premenopausal period.

The choice of remedy depends on the frequency of sexual intercourse

This method of contraception can be used at any age. It is optimal for women who rarely have sexual intercourse. If you have regular sex life, then for protection it is better to choose hormonal contraceptives. The use of vaginal tablets during frequent sexual intercourse can result in the development of dysbiosis.

For spermicides to “work” effectively, it is important to use them according to the instructions. You will have to plan your intimate life: the tablet must be administered immediately before contact. For a certain period of time (for each drug the time is specified in the instructions) water procedures cannot be carried out.

Can I use emergency contraception?

There are times when protection is necessary after the fact. Unprotected sex, a torn condom, missing birth control pills - all these factors force a woman to look for post-coital methods of contraception.

There are emergency pills. They are taken after sexual intercourse, if the risks of untimely pregnancy are high. The action of emergency contraceptive drugs is aimed at inhibiting ovulatory processes, changes in the endometrium, and rejection of the fertilized egg. Postcoital tablets contain a huge dose of hormones, so they are strictly forbidden to be considered as a regular contraceptive method. The use of emergency medications is permissible no more than twice a year.

If up to the age of 35 a woman can occasionally turn to emergency contraception, then after this age she should forget about this method. A high dose of hormones in postcoital pills is dangerous due to the possibility of blood clots, which leads to stroke and even death. After 35 years, the likelihood of developing blood clots increases significantly. Such pills are especially dangerous for women who smoke. With the disappearance of the opportunity to use emergency contraception, you need to reconsider your approach to birth control issues. As you age, it is important to choose the most reliable means, consulting your gynecologist about each.

Intrauterine devices after 35

A popular method of contraception for women over 35 years of age is the IUD. It is inserted into the uterine cavity. The plate acts on the epithelium and prevents implantation from occurring. If there is a spiral, foam forms in the uterine cavity, which interferes with the movement of sperm.

In terms of effectiveness, this method is equal to hormonal birth control pills, but in terms of convenience it takes the lead. The economic factor also speaks in favor of the spiral: the cost of installing a plate is much lower than when taking pills regularly.

Why then do not all women get IUDs? It's easy to explain. Closer to forty years, age-related changes in the reproductive system begin to occur, in particular, the tissue of the cervix takes on a pathological appearance. This makes installation of the spiral impossible. The appropriateness of this method of contraception can only be determined by a gynecologist after a complete examination of the patient.

Surgical contraception

There are also irreversible methods of contraception. These include sterilization. After the surgical method of contraception, the possibility of conception disappears forever. The operation is aimed at ensuring obstruction of the fallopian tubes.

Women over 35 years of age turn to this method of contraception for medical reasons. There are a number of conditions in which pregnancy (ending in childbirth or abortion) is strictly prohibited: it carries risks to life. Such circumstances require one hundred percent guarantees. In other cases, the doctor will help you choose a reliable, but not radical, method of contraception.

The main priorities of modern medicine are caring for the preservation of women’s reproductive health, protection and ensuring safe motherhood. It is no secret that Russia is one of the first places in terms of the number of

Abortion is a real operation that often results in...

infertility

Violation

menstrual cyclemiscarriages

And even to maternal mortality. We can draw the following conclusion: measures to prevent abortions can help maintain a woman’s health and give birth to a healthy child.

No wonder they say that children are the flowers of life. But each flower opens only at a time determined by nature. A woman has the right to give birth to a child whenever she wants, at any time in her life, so that the child is desired and happy. This fact is confirmed by law.

For the prevention of unwanted pregnancy and abortion at a certain stage of a woman’s life, plays an important role contraception.

Contraception has been used by women since ancient times. Thus, even in Ancient Africa, intravaginal herbal remedies in the form of a cocoon were used, and in America they used douching with herbal decoctions, lemon juice, and mahogany bark decoction at the end of sexual intercourse.

The number of contraceptives increased over time, but effective methods and reliable drugs appeared only in the 20th century.

New contraceptives appear almost every day. Science does not stand still. They are easy to use, reliable, safe for health, and moreover, they have a therapeutic effect for certain diseases.

Currently, medicine offers various contraception, and a woman can always choose which methods and drugs to use. Our country provides freedom of choice of contraceptives, but a woman cannot always decide for herself what is best for her. In deciding on the choice of a contraceptive, a consultation with the attending physician will help - only a qualified specialist can assess the woman’s health status, determine the indications for prescribing a particular method of contraception, and suggest the best drug for the patient.

Hormonal oral contraceptives

Every year, more and more women use

hormonal contraception

In Russia, over the past ten years, the use of hormonal contraceptives has increased more than 5 times. Reliability, ease of use, a minimum of side effects, and a beneficial effect on the organs and systems of the body allow hormonal drugs to find more and more grateful fans. Women today prefer hormonal oral contraceptives as the most effective. Combined

birth control pills are the gold standard of contraception, their effectiveness is 99%. The newest hormonal contraceptives have created a sensation, a real revolution among other means of contraception.

The effectiveness of contraceptive drugs is assessed by experts by counting the number of unplanned pregnancies per 100 women during the year. This indicator is called the Pearl index.

Types and composition of birth control pills

The first oral contraceptives appeared in the fifties and sixties of the 20th century. The predecessor of all drugs for practical use is the contraceptive Enovid, which contained 0.15 mg of mestranol and 15 mg of norethinodrel. Then the development of hormonal agents developed and underwent the following changes:

• New birth control pills began to contain small dosages of hormones, while at the same time their effectiveness and reliability were maintained.
• New analogues of female sex hormones have been obtained: ethanyl estradiol and levonorgestrel.
• Third generation progestogens appeared - norgestimate, desogestrel, gestodene.
• The newest contraceptives have been developed - mini-pills that do not contain gestagen.

Taking drugs with low concentrations of hormones helps reduce side effects and complications.

Combined contraceptives contain two components:1. Synthetic estrogen ethinyl estradiol, which is the estrogenic component of drugs.

2. Progestational component in the form of various progestogens.

All birth control pills, depending on the dosage of hormones, are divided into the following types:

• monophasic;
• two-phase;
• three-phase.

In monophasic hormonal contraceptives, the daily dose of active components is constant, but the composition may vary. It is clear that monophasic drugs consist of tablets with the same dose of hormones. These tablets are the same color and are used during one course. Popular monophasic contraceptives include: Regulon, Marvelon, Silest, Novinet, Mercilon, Rigevidon.

Biphasic drugs involve changing hormone doses twice per course, three-phase drugs - three times. Typically, such tablets for one course have different colors. Two-phase contraceptives include Anteovin, and three-phase contraceptives include Tri-mercy, Triquilar, Tri-regol, Triziston.

“Mini-pill” contraceptives are monophasic and are intended for the period of breastfeeding and lactation. These include: Lactinet, Exluton, Charozetta.

The action of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) is based on blocking ovulation. In this way they protect against unplanned pregnancy. Only progestogen has the ability to block the ovulation process, the dose of which is the same in all combined contraceptive pills. The difference between microdose and low-dose drugs is only in the dosage of estrogen. Estrogens affect a woman's menstrual cycle.

Depending on the dosage of the active ingredients, birth control pills are divided into four types:

Microdosed birth control pills As a rule, these products contain minimal doses of the hormone ethinyl estradiol. Side effects when using them are minimal. In some cases, they have the ability to eliminate hormonal imbalances: acne (especially in adolescence), painful menstruation. These pills are best suited for young girls under 25 years of age who have not given birth and have regular sex life. They can also be used by mature women over 35 years of age, and by women who have never used hormonal contraception. The most popular are: Tri-Mercy, Jess, Mercilon, Lindinet-20, Klaira, Novinet.

Low-dose birth control pills The drugs contain the same ethinyl estradiol, but in combination with various hormones: desogestrel, gestodene, norgestimate, dienogest or levonorgestrel. These birth control pills are recommended for young women who have given birth. In addition to the contraceptive effect, these products have a pronounced antiandrogenic effect: they help eliminate unwanted hair growth on the face, prevent the appearance of acne and hair loss due to hormonal imbalance. Popular tablets: Regulon, Belara, Marvelon, Yarina, Janine, Midiana, Femoden.

Medium-dose contraceptive pills Typically contain two hormones: ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. Less commonly, they may contain other combinations of hormones. Medium-dose contraceptive pills are intended for women who have given birth, especially those over 30 years of age. They also have an antiandrogenic effect, which is important for women who have not recovered from pregnancy and childbirth. However, when choosing a drug, one condition must be observed - these products are not suitable for nursing mothers. Popular tablets: Diana 35, Demoulin, Tri-Regol, Chloe.

High dose birth control pills They contain ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, but only in high doses. Such drugs are primarily used to treat and prevent hormonal diseases. Contraceptives of this type can be taken by women over 35 years of age, if drugs with a low dosage of hormones are ineffective. These include: Triquilar, Tri-regol, Ovidon, Milvane, Non-Ovlon.

Newest birth control pills: how to choose?

A woman wants a fulfilling life, and fear and reluctance of an unplanned pregnancy should not be a reason for refusing sexual relations. There are many ways to protect yourself. The most reliable are birth control pills.

Choosing a contraceptive is difficult and should be taken seriously.

Ideally, a specialist should select contraceptive drugs, but sometimes a woman decides for herself which pills to take. In these cases, it is necessary to carefully collect information about the product. Where to start?

1. Familiarize yourself with the different types of birth control medications.

2. Compare all the pros and cons.

3. Define your goal - decide what you want to get from using oral contraceptives.

What do you need to know to make the right choice? Let's figure it out.

A woman should find information about drugs and their effect on the body. It should be borne in mind that birth control pills differ in parameters, degree of reliability and side effects.

Combined contraceptives usually contain two analogs of female sex hormones, so they come first in terms of reliability. Combined oral medications are used both to protect against pregnancy and to treat diseases and hormonal disorders. Women who choose hormonal birth control pills are still advised to consult with their doctor and undergo a hormonal test.

New contraceptives are the so-called “mini-pills”. They contain only one hormone - therefore the reliability of the drugs is 90%. Their advantage is the possibility of use during lactation, as well as by women who are intolerant to estrogen (part of COCs).

The next type of birth control pill is represented by emergency contraception. These tablets are not intended for long-term use, but are used immediately after sexual intercourse. The hormone content in them is very high, so these products can only be used once a month.

Currently, contraceptive drugs of the second to fifth generations have appeared on the market. These newer drugs contain a small dose of hormones and have mild side effects. It should be understood that there are no good or bad contraceptives. There are products that are suitable or not suitable for a woman. Therefore, to select contraceptives, the individual characteristics of a particular woman’s body must be taken into account.

When making your own selection, you must first determine the phenotype—the woman’s body type.

The following types of female phenotype are distinguished:1. With a predominance of estrogens - estrogenic type.

2. With a balance of estrogens and gestagens - a balanced type.

3. With a predominance of gestagens and androgens - gestagenic type.

The phenotype is determined by the following characteristics: general appearance, volume and condition of the mammary glands, skin type, nature of menstruation, duration of the menstrual cycle, the presence of toxicosis during a previous pregnancy, woman’s body weight and tendency to be overweight.

A balanced phenotype is characterized by average indicators of these traits. In this case, it is recommended to take Marvelon, Triquilar, Microgynon, Triziston, Mercilon, Tri-Mercy, Regulon.

When the estrogen phenotype predominates, it is characterized by a very feminine appearance, a very long menstrual cycle, very heavy menstrual and vaginal discharge, and moderate fullness. It is advisable to take drugs such as Anteovin, Minulet, Norinil, Rigevidon, Miniziston.

When the gestagenic phenotype predominates, all the signs are less pronounced: unfeminine appearance, small volume of mammary glands, scanty periods, short duration of the menstrual cycle, oily skin. The following remedies are effective: Bisekurin, Chloe, Non-ovlon, Yarina, Ovidon, Jess, Janine, Klaira, Diane, Midiana, Belara.

No matter how carefully the choice is made, it still happens that the drug is not suitable. The ideal selection method has not yet been invented. Often you have to act by trial and error, but sometimes this is inevitable, because every woman’s body is unique.

It has been proven that the criterion for a successful choice of contraceptive is the absence of menstruation for three months - i.e. adaptation period. Then this drug can be taken for a long time.

Non-hormonal birth control pills

Along with hormonal contraceptives, non-hormonal birth control pills appeared at one time. Today there is a rise in the popularity of these funds, which is explained by some of the features of their action.

The fact is that the use of non-hormonal birth control pills is not contraindicated for women immediately after childbirth, nursing mothers, and women who cannot take hormones. And another important detail: non-hormonal drugs for preventing pregnancy not only have the ability to destroy sperm, but also contribute to the formation of a protective film on the vaginal mucosa and thickening of mucus in the cervical canal. Moreover, active substances - spermicides - reduce the speed of sperm movement, and the resulting mucus is a barrier to their penetration into the uterus. This is good protection against unwanted pregnancy. Non-hormonal contraceptive pills, which is important in our time, protect women from sexually transmitted infections, as they have both antiseptic and antimicrobial effects.

It follows that non-hormonal contraceptives can be used by many women at different periods of life. The use of tablets is a barrier chemical method of contraception. They are easy to use, do not disrupt hormonal levels, can be used at any reproductive age of a woman, and are a prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.

Birth control pills Pharmatex

The most popular non-hormonal contraceptive currently is the drug

Pharmatex

Pharmatex has spermicidal, antiseptic and antimicrobial effects.

In addition to the contraceptive effect, Pharmatex birth control pills prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections and reduce the risk of their consequences: infertility, miscarriage, cervical diseases, tumors caused by HIV infection.

A huge advantage of using Pharmatex is that it in no way affects either hormonal levels or the vaginal microflora.

Pharmatex, like other non-hormonal tablets, affects such types of microorganisms as Trichomonas, gonococci, chlamydia, Candida fungi, and herpes virus. Pharmatex acts locally, which does not cause side effects on organs and systems of the whole body.

The use of vaginal tablets is more suitable for women in the postpartum period, during lactation and breastfeeding, after an abortion, and with irregular sex life, when there is no permanent partner.

Mode of application The manufacturer of the product usually includes instructions for use. Basically, non-hormonal vaginal tablets are inserted into the vagina to a sufficient depth 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. For more convenient administration of tablets and other dosage forms, a special applicator is included in the package of the medicine.

You need to know that before each subsequent sexual intercourse, and in the case of sexual intercourse that occurs later than two hours after the administration of the tablet, a new tablet must be administered. Of course, this is inconvenient to a certain extent, since a woman cannot afford to re-inject the pill after accidental or unexpected sex. She needs to plan the timing of intercourse, which is unnatural.

The effect of the drug is believed to last from 40 minutes to several hours. But you need to remember that the use of vaginal tablets is not combined with water procedures before and after sexual intercourse using intimate hygiene products.

In some women, the drug may cause a burning sensation in the vagina. In this case, you should consult your doctor about continuing or discontinuing Pharmatex. The reliability of Pharmatex is 80-82%.

Contraceptive suppositories and creams

Although the reliability of vaginal contraceptives is less high compared to hormonal contraceptives, they continue to gain popularity ratings. Only improper use of these products can lead to unwanted pregnancy.

In addition to tablets, manufacturers offer the use of other dosage forms: suppositories, creams, ointments. The active substance in the suppositories is either nonoxynol or benzalkonium chloride.

Pharmatex is also available in various forms: vaginal suppositories, tampons, cream, capsules.

Advantages of using contraceptive suppositories Contraceptive suppositories are easy to use, easily inserted into the vagina, and have minor side effects. Another advantage of using non-hormonal vaginal suppositories is the effect of additional lubrication. They are especially suitable for partners who have problems with natural lubrication and dryness in the genitals.

Vaginal suppositories protect a woman from sexually transmitted infections and are indispensable for casual sexual intercourse, infrequent sexual intercourse, or in the absence of a permanent partner.

Disadvantages of using contraceptive suppositories Vaginal contraceptive suppositories can affect the microflora of the vagina, since in addition to the active substance they contain acids. Burning and itching, allergic rashes that occur when using suppositories are indications for their discontinuation.

Dosing Vaginal suppositories. The suppository is inserted into the vagina 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. The drug is effective for 4 hours.

Vaginal tampon. The tampon is taken out of the package and inserted into the vagina using a finger, right up to the cervix. The protection effect occurs immediately and lasts 24 hours. The tampon does not need to be changed during this period, which is very convenient. The tampon does not change even if there are several sexual intercourses that follow each other during the day. The tampon is removed no earlier than 2 hours after the last sexual intercourse, but no later than 24 hours after its first insertion into the vagina.

Vaginal cream. It is inserted into the vagina using a special syringe. The device should be filled to the mark without the formation of air bubbles. Then slowly insert into the vagina before sexual intercourse. The introduction is made lying down. The effect of the product begins immediately and lasts about 10 hours. Before repeated sexual intercourse, it is necessary to re-administer a portion of the cream.

Popular drugs: Pharmatex, Nonoxynol, Patentex Oval, Contraceptin T.

Birth control pills after intercourse

One method that prevents unplanned pregnancy is called emergency contraception. This is the only protection in emergency situations: rape, forced sexual intercourse and mental conditions associated with them. Emergency contraception is also used during unprotected sexual intercourse, as post-coital protection against possible pregnancy.

Sometimes this method is simply called: emergency, fire, emergency contraception, contraception the morning after. But it is still correct to call it emergency, since this method is used in emergency situations.

Emergency contraception aims to prevent pregnancy at the following stages: ovulation, fertilization and consolidation of the fertilized egg in the endometrium (inner layer of the uterine mucosa).

• in emergency situations involving violent acts on the part of a partner, as well as when the integrity of the condom is broken or a woman misses taking a contraceptive pill;
• with rare sexual contacts;
• during unprotected sex, when no contraceptive methods were used.

Contraindications for this method are the same as for taking other birth control pills, namely:

• thrombosis and thromboembolism (even in history);
• liver diseases with a high degree of failure;
• kidney diseases;
• smoking;
• oncological diseases.

For this method, hormonal drugs containing estrogens, combined hormonal contraceptives, as well as drugs containing gestagens and intrauterine devices can be used.

Estrogens for emergency contraception have recently been used less often, since they contain high doses of hormones, which leads to side effects - nausea and vomiting.

Combined contraceptive pills are used within 72 hours after sexual intercourse, twice, with a break of 12 hours. You can use any drug from this group.

The most well-known drug for emergency contraception in Russia is Postinor. It is recommended to take it twice, one tablet at a time. The first tablet is taken no later than 72 hours after sexual intercourse, the second - 12 hours after the first.

The second emergency contraceptive drug, Escapelle, is taken once within 96 hours after sexual intercourse.

It is possible to introduce an intrauterine device within 5-7 days after unprotected sexual intercourse.

The decision to choose a drug for emergency contraception is made only by a doctor.

Birth control pills: rules and questions about taking them

Hormonal birth control pills should be taken following certain rules. These rules cannot be violated, otherwise improper use may lead to menstrual irregularities or an unwanted pregnancy.

Start of reception

It is better to take the tablets every day, preferably at the same time. You need to choose a convenient time, and for convenience, associate it with some action, so as not to forget about the appointment on time.

Combined oral contraceptives are taken daily for 21 days. Then a break of 7 days is taken, and the next package of the drug begins. The course begins with an active tablet.

Mini-pills are taken without interruption. Immediately after finishing the package, the next one begins.

Break in reception

gynecologist

If the doctor does not determine any contraindications to taking your usual medications, then you can safely continue taking them.

Menstruation upon admission

When taking COCs, your periods may stop if you take them for a long time. When using other oral contraceptives, periods may become scanty and last a shorter time.

If you have been taking contraceptives regularly, without omissions or breaks, but your periods have stopped, then you need to continue taking them.

But if the intake was irregular, you should suspect the onset of pregnancy, immediately stop using the contraceptive and contact a gynecologist to identify it.

Menstruation after cancellation

Menstruation returns completely within one to two months after stopping birth control pills. According to experts, approximately 80% of women have a planned pregnancy. If your periods have not returned within six months, you should consult a doctor.

Bleeding when taken

After starting to take the pills, a woman may experience spotting.

bloody issues

You should not interrupt the course for this reason. The spotting disappears as you continue taking it.

If heavy bleeding occurs, consult a doctor.

Is it possible to get pregnant while taking birth control pills?

Pregnancy can occur only if the contraceptive regimen is violated. If the delay in taking the pill is more than 12 hours, the effectiveness of the contraceptive effect is weakened.

Another situation is when a woman vomits when taking it. Then you need to take the next pill, since the first one is not absorbed. If vomiting occurs repeatedly, it is better to switch to another type of medication. The same steps should be taken for loose stools.

The reliability of contraceptives may decrease when taking other medications - for example, antibiotics, St. John's wort infusions, etc. In this case, the use of an additional method of contraception is recommended.

How long can you take the pills?

Unfortunately, fear of hormonal drugs among Russian women is passed on from generation to generation. Women ask a lot of questions and try to find answers to them.

According to scientists, fifth-generation contraceptives have already appeared in Russia, which have minor side effects. But the number of questions is not decreasing.

Is it possible to take birth control pills continuously for more than a year?

In the absence of side effects of the drugs taken by a woman, as well as medical contraindications for their use, it is allowed to take contraceptives for quite a long time, even several years. Changing pills to others, or taking breaks in taking them, is not useful, but on the contrary, harmful. The body adjusts to one type of pill; switching to other contraceptives forces it to work in a different rhythm. Research by scientists has proven that breaks do not affect the incidence of complications or the development of subsequent pregnancies.

Pregnancy after stopping birth control pills

Calculations confirm that pregnancy can occur immediately after stopping birth control pills, or after a short period of time. Interestingly, after discontinuation, the likelihood of pregnancy increases several times. Doctors use this circumstance in the treatment of infertility.

Is it possible to stop taking birth control pills?

A woman has the right to stop taking contraceptives whenever she wishes.

Which is better: birth control pills or the IUD?

Women often ask: “Isn’t it better to insert an intrauterine device than to take pills?” Again, the same fear of hormones makes us think about canceling combined oral medications. It must be taken into account that the spiral is a foreign body in the uterine cavity, which can cause inflammation. Tablets are more reliable and safe.

The best birth control pills

We have already said that it is impossible to determine the best pills for a particular woman. Every woman should choose the pills that are suitable only for her. Currently, fifth-generation drugs have appeared, and side effects such as obesity and infertility are a thing of the past. Modern contraceptives contain minimal doses of hormones and have virtually no side effects. We will try to give short descriptions of some drugs.

Birth control pills

is a new, practical solution for preventing unwanted pregnancy for young women. This drug contains small doses of estrogen - 20 mcg, and progestogen drospirenone - 3 mg, which reduces the risk of vascular complications. The tablets are well tolerated and do not have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

This drug belongs to the fourth generation of contraceptive drugs.

It is recommended to use the drug for a long time. The package contains 28 tablets. Take the tablets daily, preferably at the same time. Start taking Jess on the first day of menstrual bleeding, then drink continuously.

Jess is a novelty in medicine. The popularity of the drug is growing. Jess provides reliable protection, controls the menstrual cycle, is used to treat symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, acne, and has a beneficial effect on hair and nails. At the same time, the weight of women using Jess remains stable. The period of adaptation to the contraceptive is 1-2 months.

No wonder the drug Jess is called the contraceptive of the twenty-first century.

More information about the drug Jess

Novinet The action of the new contraceptive Novinet is based on blocking ovulation and the production of luteinizing hormone. This makes it possible to delay the movement of sperm into the uterus by increasing the viscosity of the mucus in the cervical canal.

The drug has minimal side effects, does not cause pain during menstruation, and does not affect a woman’s weight gain.

When taking Novinet, nausea, rarely vomiting, partial hair loss, and headaches may occur.

Novinet is taken 1 tablet daily for 21 days. The break is 7 days, on the eighth day a new package is started.

Breastfeeding women can start taking the drug three weeks after giving birth. It should be remembered that Novinet dramatically increases the amount of breast milk.

With the beginning of sexual life, reliable and safe contraception in terms of side effects becomes relevant for every representative of the fair sex. It is immediately worth noting that there are no universal remedies. At each age, taking into account the state of health, regularity of sexual relations and other factors, one or another method is more suitable. For a woman after 30 years of age, their choice becomes especially important, since her health is no longer ideal, and some remedies, for example, incorrectly selected hormonal drugs, can further aggravate the situation.

• natural (calendar method, interrupted sexual intercourse, daily measurement of basal temperature to control ovulation and others);
• barrier (condoms, uterine cap, vaginal diaphragm);
• hormonal (tablets for internal use, intramuscular injections, subcutaneous implants, vaginal rings, intrauterine devices and systems, patches, postcoital products);
• chemical (pastes, suppositories, ointments and topical tablets, intrauterine devices containing copper, gold or silver);
• surgical (blocking the patency of the fallopian tubes).

The main criterion by which their effectiveness is assessed is reliability. The first place with a result of 99.9% is occupied by the surgical method, in which a woman undergoes an operation to ligate the fallopian tubes, which eliminates the possibility of becoming pregnant. After 30 years, it can only be recommended for women with absolute contraindications to pregnancy for health reasons or those who clearly no longer want to have children. To restore the patency of the fallopian tubes, a complex operation will again be required, or an expensive IVF procedure will have to be resorted to to give birth to a child.

In second place with a reliability level of 99.7% are hormonal contraceptive pills, followed by the intrauterine device (IUD) and intrauterine systems with a protection level of 99.2% and higher. Relatively new methods of contraception are the hormonal patch and ring, their reliability level is about 92%. Barrier methods of contraception are characterized by reliability at the level of 85–90%, and the lowest rate of protection against unwanted pregnancy (80% or less) have natural methods and topical chemicals or spermicides.

The selection of acceptable contraceptive options for a woman in each specific case should be carried out by a gynecologist after conducting an appropriate examination, this is especially true in the case of choosing hormonal pills.

Birth control pills

On pharmacy shelves you can find a wide range of oral contraceptives. Despite the fact that they are available without a prescription, prescribing them independently on the advice of friends or advertising is unacceptable. Hormonal pills are indicated for the prevention of pregnancy during regular sexual activity in women who are married or have a regular sexual partner. Their high efficiency is due to the fact that the contraceptive effect is realized through several mechanisms in parallel. They suppress ovulation, change the structure of the endometrium so that the egg cannot attach to the wall of the uterus if it is fertilized, and increase the density of cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to move through.

Kinds

The active ingredients of hormonal contraceptive pills are synthetic analogues of the female sex hormones estrogen and progestogen. They are:

• monophasic, with the same constant dose of estrogen and progestogen;
• biphasic, with a constant content of estrogen and variable content of pogestagen;
• triphasic, with variable doses of estrogen and progestogen;
• mini-pills contain only progestogen in a minimal dosage.

Based on the quantitative content of hormones, combined oral contraceptives (COCs), that is, drugs based on both estrogen and progestogen, are divided into micro-, low- and high-dose.

Indications

To choose the right hormonal pills to prevent unplanned pregnancy, you need to consult a gynecologist. The specialist will assess the patient’s general health, her constitution, perform an examination in a gynecological chair, take smears for flora and oncocytology, and find out whether she has had previous pregnancies. If necessary, he will prescribe additional studies: ultrasound of the pelvic organs, general and biochemical blood tests, blood tests for hormones to determine the state of hormonal levels in case of an irregular menstrual cycle.

Low-dose contraceptive pills (Yarina, Zhanin, Marvelon, Regulon, Diane-35, Silhouette) are prescribed to the categories of patients listed above in case microdosed drugs are ineffective for them and to women who have given birth.

High-dose COCs (tri-regol, triziston, ovidone, non-ovlon, triquilar) are usually prescribed only for therapeutic purposes for the treatment of hormonal diseases of the female reproductive system. In the absence of such pathologies, they are not used only for contraception.

Mini-pills have a slightly less contraceptive effect compared to COCs, but are characterized by a smaller list of contraindications and side effects. They can be recommended to nursing mothers, women over thirty years of age, who smoke and have contraindications for prescribing COCs. Drugs in this group include microlut, charosetta, ovret, exluton, laktinet and others.

Advantages

The advantages of birth control pills are:

• the presence of not only a contraceptive, but a preventive and therapeutic effect for certain gynecological diseases (fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia, breast cancer);
• mitigation or elimination of unpleasant symptoms of premenstrual syndrome;
• normalization of the menstrual cycle;
• later onset of menopause;
• reducing oily skin and hair, and the tendency to acne.

Tablet hormonal contraceptives are easy to use, they do not require special preparation for sexual intercourse (unlike local remedies) and do not reduce the level of pleasant sensations during it.

Flaws

The disadvantages of this method include the need for a woman to take the drug at the same time every day in accordance with the instructions and prescriptions of the doctor. If the package contains 28 tablets, then drink them continuously, and if 21, then take a break for 7 days, during which menstruation occurs, and then start a new pack. Oral contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Among the disadvantages of COCs, one can note the high risks of complications from the cardiovascular system; for mini-pills they are much lower. COCs are contraindicated for women over thirty if they have bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse) and the following problems in the body have been identified:

• increased blood clotting and tendency to form blood clots;
• cardiovascular diseases;
• cerebrovascular accidents;
• severe pathologies of the kidneys and liver;
• diabetes;
• hormonally dependent neoplasms.

Side effects

Possible side effects while taking them are:

• spotting and spotting between periods;
• decreased sexual desire;
• the appearance of pigment spots;
• pain in the gastrointestinal tract;
• increased body hair growth;
• headache.

Mood changes and depression are also possible.

Video: What you need to know about using birth control pills

Other hormonal contraceptives

In addition to oral contraceptives, other hormonal contraceptives are also used to prevent unplanned pregnancy. These include:

• vaginal ring;
• subcutaneous implant;
• contraceptive patch;
• postcoital remedies.

Vaginal ring

This is a thin silicone ring with a diameter of about 4 cm, containing estrogen and progestogen, which enter the systemic circulation through the vaginal mucosa and have an effect similar to oral contraceptives. Their concentration in blood plasma is maintained at a constant level for 3 weeks and then gradually decreases.

The ring is inserted into the vagina on the first day of menstruation and left for 21 days, after which it is removed and replaced with a new one a week later. Its position in the vagina does not affect the pharmacological effect, but may create discomfort during sexual intercourse. The disadvantages of this method are an increased risk of developing an inflammatory process in the vagina and the inability to use tampons during menstruation.

The contraceptive patch works in a similar way. It is glued to the skin in certain places for 21 days, and then a break is taken for 7 days. The advantage of the vaginal ring and the contraceptive patch is the absorption of the active components into the systemic bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, which increases the degree of their absorption and reduces the number of side effects.

Subcutaneous implants

These are capsules about 3.5 cm long and 2.5 mm in diameter, containing a synthetic progestogen, which is gradually released into the systemic circulation over a long period of time. A significant drawback of this method of contraception, despite its high efficiency and duration of action (up to 5 years), is the need for minimally invasive surgery to place and remove implants.

Contraindications for a subdermal implant are the same as for all hormonal contraceptives. Progestin-only contraceptives can also be introduced into the body by injection (depo-provera). To ensure pregnancy prevention, injections are given intramuscularly once every two months.

Postcoital contraceptives

The most popular drug is Postinor, which contains very high doses of hormones. Must be taken no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. The mechanism of action is associated with changing the structure of the endometrium and preventing the attachment of a fertilized egg to the wall of the uterus. This method of contraception is used only in emergency cases, it is not recommended for women of any age, not only after 30 years, as it is fraught with serious side effects. Using it systematically is strictly prohibited.

Spermicides

Local contraceptives used before sexual intercourse after 30 years of age can be recommended for parous and nulliparous women with irregular sex life. These include creams, suppositories, tablets (pharmatex, gynekotex, patentex, benatex), containing chemical compounds as active ingredients that have a destructive and immobilizing effect on sperm.

Women administer such drugs directly into the vagina in a lying position 15 minutes before sexual intercourse. In addition to low efficiency (80%), they also have a number of disadvantages:

• Do not wash with soap immediately after sexual intercourse;
• the need to comply with time intervals;
• a feeling of discomfort in both partners;
• repeated administration before each sexual intercourse.

The advantages include the absence of the need for a doctor's prescription, the presence of antibacterial components in some drugs, which help prevent infection with certain sexually transmitted diseases.

Barrier methods of contraception

The most popular means of barrier contraception are condoms. Their use is especially important during casual sexual intercourse, since only they reliably protect both partners from sexually transmitted infections.

The main disadvantage of condoms is a decrease in sensitivity during sexual intercourse, which can become a significant obstacle for the fair sex after 30 years of age, who are experiencing the blossoming of their sexual life. However, today pharmacies offer a wide selection of condoms with a wide variety of properties, differing in color, smell, material of manufacture, thickness, size, shape, lubricants used, texture, so if desired, each couple will be able to choose the best option for themselves.

Intrauterine device

The IUD is intended as a method of contraception after 30 years only for women who have given birth, if the birth proceeded naturally and without complications. This type of contraception is not recommended for caesarean section.

Currently, two types of IUDs are used, containing metals (copper, silver, gold) or hormones. The IUD is inserted into the uterine cavity on the third or fourth day of the menstrual cycle. It prevents the fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine wall and reduces its lifespan. IUDs with hormones additionally affect the consistency of cervical mucus, increasing its density, and also help normalize the menstrual cycle and prevent the formation of uterine fibroids.

Depending on its type, the IUD is installed for a period of 5 years, maximum 10 years, after which it is removed. If a woman decides to become pregnant, it can be removed at any time. However, before conception, a recovery period will be necessary, since during the presence of the spiral in the uterus, the endometrium is greatly depleted, which greatly complicates the attachment of a fertilized egg. Contraindications for the use of the IUD are:

• endometriosis;
• severe diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• sexually transmitted infections;
• inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs;
• malignant neoplasms localized in the cervix or body of the uterus;
• fibroids, accompanied by deformation of the uterine cavity.

Women with an IUD should visit a gynecologist more often, since such a foreign object can provoke inflammatory processes in the uterus and appendages, which need to be diagnosed and treated in the early stages. For a long time during the adaptation period after insertion of the IUD, women may experience spotting and increased menstrual pain. IUDs also increase the amount of blood loss during menstruation.

Video: Review of the most popular contraceptive methods