Contraceptive tablets prevent ovulation and fertilization by thickening cervical mucus and changing the uterine lining. There are different types of birth control pills, including combined, progestogen-only, and extended cycle. Emergency contraceptives are also available. Women should consult a doctor to determine the right type of contraceptive for them.
Contraceptive tablets, also known as birth control pills, contain hormones that prevent a woman’s ovary from releasing an egg. They do this by thickening cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for sperm to travel to an egg, and by changing the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. Since the first birth control pill was released in 1960, there have been many advances in contraceptives and many forms of the pill are now available. Women can now choose between combined, progestogen-only and extended cycle contraceptive tablets. Emergency contraceptives are another type of birth control pill.
Combined contraceptive tablets contain both estrogen and progestin, hormones produced naturally in the body. This type of birth control is the most commonly prescribed and best known type of birth control pill. The combination pills are available in 21-day packs, where all 21 tablets are active pills, or 28-day packs, which contain 7 placebo pills.
There are three different types of combined birth control pills: monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic. Monophasic pills maintain a constant level of estrogen and progestin throughout the month. Biphasic contraceptive tablets change the amount of progestogen delivered during the month, while still containing the same amount of estrogen. The dose of hormones contained in a triphasic pill changes every five to nine days.
Progestogen-only contraceptives, also known as mini pills, do not release estrogen throughout the month. Women who are breastfeeding or have blood clotting disorders are usually prescribed this type of contraceptive because estrogen reduces lactation. Progestogen-only pills are less effective than combined contraceptives, so women need to be diligent about taking the pill at the same time each day.
Extended cycle pills contain both estrogen and progestin. Packets of pills reduce the number of periods a woman has per year to three or four periods. They can also completely eliminate a woman’s menstrual cycle by containing 365 days of active pills.
Emergency contraceptive tablets contain a type of progestin that prevents ovulation and the fetus from attaching itself to the lining of the uterus. The contraceptive will be effective if taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, but will not interrupt an already developing fetus. This drug is available over the counter, but there are age restrictions. Emergency contraceptives can cause vomiting and cramps. The woman should consult a doctor or gynecologist to determine which type of contraceptive is right for them.
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