How to choose non-hormonal contraceptives? Non-hormonal contraceptive pills Contraceptives for women before intercourse

Part of every woman’s life is the moment when she thinks about how to protect herself from an unplanned pregnancy. Today, condoms and contraceptive pills are becoming increasingly popular. Contraceptives non-hormonal tablets much more convenient to use, do not have such a large list harmful effects. What are they and what to choose?

Which birth control pills are non-hormonal?

Non-hormonal contraceptives for women differ from alternative ones in that the quality of the active ones is acquired by substances called spermicides. This composition of medications allows you to avoid adverse changes in the body and health. The principle of action of tablets that do not contain hormones is based on the destruction of sperm, creating an obstacle from mucus on the cervix.

Non-hormonal birth control pills new generation have a number of advantages:

• they are allowed to be taken during lactation and pregnancy;
• reception is carried out as needed, and not according to a specific schedule;
• do not irritate the lining of the uterus, do not cause harm;
• allowed to be used for diseases (for example, uterine fibroids);
• the harm of such tablets is limited to allergies;
• able to fight infections in the genitals.

Disadvantages of such drugs:

• use a few minutes before sex;
• It is allowed to take a shower and use soap only after some time has passed;
• not suitable for daily use;
• may arise allergic reactions.

After the act

Sometimes situations arise when urgent contraception is necessary. Protection is called emergency because its use is intended in emergency situations. Anti-pregnancy pills after unprotected act are such. Unfortunately, non-hormonal drugs are not available for oral administration. When you use contraceptives after sex, you deal your body a huge blow. It is necessary to use emergency contraceptive pills as rarely as possible - take responsibility for your health.

Contraceptive vaginal pills

Exists a large number of types of contraceptives for women and girls. Medicines for vaginal administration are one type. They do not contain hormones, which means they do not cause the problems that may arise from taking hormonal drugs. Such contraceptives are the safest birth control pills. There are a large number of such pills on the shelves of modern pharmacies. It is best to leave it to your doctor to determine which ones are right for you.

How to use

The package contains instructions for use, which detail the mechanisms for using the medicine, but there are general rules, method of application of funds. Vaginal contraceptives must be taken 10-15 minutes before sexual intercourse. If sex does not occur within 2 hours after using the drug, the procedure will need to be repeated. For ease of administration of the pill, the package may contain a special applicator, with its help the product will be injected deeply.

The instructions for some medications include instructions not to shower or use intimate hygiene for some time before and after sex. Single-use medications can cause irritation and burning in intimate area. If symptoms occur, the medication should be discontinued. Before using medicinal contraceptives, you should consult your doctor.

Name of birth control pills

New generation non-hormonal contraceptive pills:

• "Pharmatex"

The activity of the substance lasts from 3 to 4 hours, depending on the form of the drug, after 10 minutes. After insertion, it becomes possible to have sexual intercourse.

• "Ginecotex"

The pill should be inserted along the anterior wall of the vagina within 5 minutes. before sex. The activity lasts for a long time – about 4 hours.

• "Benatex"

The pill must be placed deep, up to the cervix. This should be done about 10 minutes before sexual intercourse.

• "Erotex"

The dosage form of the drug is suppositories. Use it 10 minutes before sex. The substance will be active for 3 hours.

• "Contratex"

The activity of the pill begins after 10 minutes. after administration, lasts up to 4 hours.

• "Patentex Oval"

It is a vaginal suppository that is placed inside the vagina 10 minutes before sexual intercourse.

• "Traceptin"

The pill must be administered 10 minutes before. before sex. Itching and burning may occur.

Birth control pills after 40 years must be selected with special care, because the body is prone to development chronic diseases, the number of contraindications for taking hormonal drugs is increasing. The use of non-hormonal contraceptives is suitable at this age even earlier (after 35 years), if you have irregular sexual intercourse. In addition, the drugs have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial effect, which is very important. Medicines of this type are allowed to be used during pregnancy and lactation.

A full sex life is an important component of the relationship between a man and a woman. Long gone are the days when women tried to protect themselves from unwanted pregnancy through means traditional medicine and local barrier methods, shockingly inventive. Modern pharmaceutical market offers a wide selection of contraceptives that are reliable and pleasant to use.

Benefits of non-hormonal remedies

Despite the increased demand for oral contraceptives containing hormones, non-hormonal contraceptives are widely used among women of all ages. age categories. The variety of forms used makes it possible not to limit sex life sexual partners, get the desired pleasure, do not lose interest in sexual life.

Vaginal contraceptives are a chemical method of contraception based on the spermicidal effect of the main components of the drugs (nonoxynol or benzalkonium chloride) when applied locally (vaginally).

Release forms

Non-hormonal contraceptives have the following forms:

• candles (suppositories);
• balloons;
• cream;
• aerosol;
• vaginal tablets;
• capsules.

The increased interest in vaginal contraceptives that has arisen in recent decades has been facilitated by mass media, advertising the benefits of this type of contraception. The search for an option to protect against unwanted pregnancy without the use of hormones leads to an alternative - a chemical method of protection.

Indications for the use of chemical contraception

This method is indicated in the following situations:

• lack of regular sexual relations;
• postpartum period and lactation period;
• contraindications to the use of hormone-containing drugs;
• the presence of chronic diseases of the circulatory system, endocrine system and genitourinary;
• absolute or temporary contraindication to the use of barrier methods of contraception ( intrauterine device, cervical cap, diaphragm, condom);
• pronounced climacteric syndrome, manifested structural changes vaginal mucosa;
• errors in the use of oral hormonal contraceptives.

Practically complete absence side effects and absolute availability of purchase make it possible to evaluate the positive characteristics of these funds.

Advantages of non-hormonal contraceptives

TO positive characteristics can be attributed:

• absence side effects associated with changes in hormonal levels;
• do not require control over the application regimen;
• prevent infection by pathogenic flora;
• easy to use, have a pleasant aroma;
• act as a lubricant, moisturizing the vaginal mucosa;
• the best type of contraception during the postpartum and lactation period.

Despite the advantages of non-hormonal contraceptives, like any drug, they also have negative characteristics.

Disadvantages of non-hormonal contraceptives

The disadvantages of non-hormonal contraceptives include:

• lower efficiency compared to drugs containing hormones;
• require preparation for sexual intercourse (preliminary introduction 5-10 minutes);
• with frequent use they cause local allergic reactions in the form of redness, burning and itching;
• contraindication to water procedures after coitus using personal hygiene products;
• reduce their effectiveness during the use of antibacterial or steroid drugs;
• not recommended in the presence of acute inflammatory processes in the vagina and cervix, with vaginal bleeding.

The choice of a non-hormonal drug must be approached consciously. A consultation with a gynecologist would be most appropriate. The doctor will select non-hormonal birth control pills, taking into account the experience of use among different age groups, analysis of effectiveness, indications and individual characteristics body.

As practice shows, most women prescribe contraceptives on their own, basing their preference on the opinions of friends who advertise the drugs, as well as thanks to advertising in the media. Often the choice is based on the advice of the pharmacy pharmacist. What topical medications are most effective? Which non-hormonal pills will be better?

TOP 10 vaginal contraceptives

In the top 10 most used drugs, according to medical statistics:

• Pharmatex;
• Gynekotex;
• Benzalkonium chloride;
• Erotex;
• Contratex
• Patentex Oval;
• Nonoxynol;
• Traceptin;
• Conceptol.

The drug Pharmatex based on benzalkonium chloride has proven itself well. It is available in the form of vaginal tablets, vaginal tampons, suppositories, and cream. The spermicidal effect of the drug destroys the sperm membrane. The thick mucus that forms interferes with the fertilization process.

Each individual suppository is indicated for single use before sexual intercourse. The activity of the drug and the duration of action depend on the form of release of the drug. The most effective is Pharmatex in the form of a cream, which retains its activity for up to 10 hours after insertion into the vagina. In addition, a bactericidal effect was noted against certain types of bacteria and viruses: chlamydia, trichomonas, Staphylococcus aureus and herpes.

Residues can be removed using ordinary water several hours after coitus. Any type of local contraceptive should be administered at horizontal position bodies. Wide Application Pharmatexa by women of different ages determined its inclusion in the top ten most popular means of protection.

Ginekotex vaginal contraceptive tablets are indicated for intravaginal use. The effect is similar to the previous drug, but has a wider range of bactericidal effects, including enterococci, candida, HIV and others. Incompatible with iodine preparations that inactivate the molecules of the active substance. During sexual intercourse, it is enough to insert the tablet once into the vagina. Single-use tablets are taken topically, slightly moistened with water.

The contraceptive effect of Erotex is due not only to the thickening of cervical mucus and the creation of a film that impedes the movement of sperm, but also to the separation of the head from the sperm flagellum. Disposable vaginal suppositories, which are inserted into the vagina, are no less effective than low-dose oral contraceptives.

Erotex, having a wide antimicrobial effect, does not disturb the general microbial landscape of the vagina, is not absorbed by the vaginal walls, and does not enter the systemic bloodstream. Single-use contraceptive suppositories have a pleasant aroma: lemon, rose, lavender, vanilla.

Contratex is presented in the form vaginal suppositories, which have spermicidal, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effect relative to most strains pathogenic flora, including resistant species. Intravaginal administration into the vagina ensures the drug is active for 1 to 4 hours.

Traceptin vaginal tablets, which contain potassium hydrogen tartrate, are inserted into the vagina 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. They have active spermicidal and antimicrobial activity.

The drugs Patentex Oval, Nonoxynol and Conceptrol are based on nonoxynol. It reduces sperm motility by creating a chemical barrier. It is better to administer suppositories or cream using a special applicator 10 minutes before intercourse. The active substance nonoxynol has antimicrobial activity against most pathogenic microorganisms: bacteria, viruses, fungi.

Non-hormonal contraceptives remain effective when used correctly. A single dose of the drug can be combined with other types of contraception. Hormonal contraceptive in combination with a non-hormonal contraceptive, taken for the first time before sexual intercourse, significantly increases effectiveness. Non-hormonal drugs combined with barrier methods protection (condom, IUD, etc.).

Let the choice of an effective non-hormonal contraceptive be entrusted to the gynecologist who has analyzed general state the female body and its individual characteristics.

Contraception is something that women attach great importance to. Of course, today there are many different hormonal drugs on the market that are positioned with the best side, however, many representatives of the fairer sex try to pay attention to non-hormonal contraception.

A large number of advantages with minimal side effects is the main thing that captivates the weak of this world when choosing such remedies.

Contrary to opinion (and indeed the name), non-hormonal contraceptives are not pills, as they are commonly called. Moreover, the drugs are not taken orally, but are inserted into the vagina. Vaginal contraceptives are spermicides that come in the form of tampons, creams, gels, suppositories, and even aerosols.

Do not forget that non-hormonal contraceptives are not pills. They are produced in the form of tampons, creams, gels, suppositories and even aerosols.

The mechanism of operation of these agents lies in the active substance, which is nonoxynol or benzalkonium chloride.

IN important! Modern foreign non-hormonal contraceptives, which did not have time to enter the domestic market, also contain other active components.

The presented components, destroying the sperm membrane, do not allow them to advance further, contributing to their death at the initial stage.

Another feature is that non-hormonal contraceptives help thicken the mucus in the cervical canal, which prevents “tadpoles” from penetrating inside. However, even if this happens (although it is rare), it is difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg, since their motility is noticeably lost, and the chances of conception are close to zero.

Vaginal contraceptives perform not only their main task, protecting against unwanted pregnancy, but also indirectly - protecting against some sexually transmitted diseases. This is possible due to the formation of an invisible thin film on the vaginal mucosa.

To increase effectiveness, non-hormonal contraceptives for women are used together with other means.

Among these are:

• condoms;
• cervical caps;
• vaginal diaphragms.

This allows you to definitely achieve the desired result - to protect yourself from an unplanned pregnancy.

The effectiveness of non-hormonal contraception

The Pearl Index allows you to determine whether certain non-hormonal contraceptive pills are effective or useless. It shows how many of the fair sex out of a hundred managed to conceive a child using protection in a certain way. High rate index is directly proportional to the level of protection.

Don't forget about additional funds contraception

Thus, with PPA (coitus interruptus), there were 80-85 pregnancies for every 100 women. As for non-hormonal contraceptives, they were ineffective in 17 cases out of 100.

Therefore, it is advisable to use vaginal contraceptives in conjunction with other methods of contraception.

Who can use non-hormonal pills

Before you start using vaginal birth control pills, it is recommended to consult your gynecologist. And although some women make their own decisions regarding what is best for them and what suits them, it is better not to start “experiments” without going to the doctor.

Important! It should be understood that even new generation non-hormonal contraceptives can have negative impact on female body, causing a number of side effects.

Often, the doctor prescribes the use of spermicidal contraceptives for women of the following categories:

• Rarely sexually active.
• Girls with gynecological diseases.
• Nursing mothers.
• Ladies with endocrine disorders.
• Allergy sufferers (when there is intolerance to latex or hormonal drugs).
• Ladies on the verge of menopause.
• Girls who do not want to take hormones and use.

Advantages and disadvantages of protection

At first glance, it seems that all vaginal contraceptives are the same. In fact, using some contraceptives, a woman can feel great, but using other means, she begins to complain of vaginal dryness or itching. This is all individual and something like this should be understood. That is why you often have to try several drugs in order to settle on one specific one.

Non-hormonal contraception has a number of advantages and disadvantages

However, despite this nuance, non-hormonal agents have whole line benefits. Namely:

• Can be used regardless of age.
• Almost complete absence of contraindications.
• Absence negative influence on reproductive system and the entire body (which cannot be said about the means emergency contraception, used after unprotected sexual intercourse).
• Good additional lubrication (no need to use lubricants, especially for women who complain of dryness).
• There is no need to take the drug at the same time every day, like hormonal contraceptives.
• Reducing the risk of infection.
• Reducing the risk of cervical diseases (which cannot be said when using vaginal IUDs and tablets).
• Possibility of use after sexual intercourse, in case of damage to the integrity of the condom during lovemaking.

Considering the large number of positive aspects, the presented contraceptives have a number of disadvantages.

• Taking a bath or using a shower for a certain period of time after sexual intercourse is prohibited.
• Careful planning of sexual intercourse (spermicides must often be used 10-15 minutes before insertion of the penis into the vagina).
• Inability to perform oral sex.
• Skin irritation and itching (rare).
• It is not advisable to use it with enviable regularity (this can lead to disruption of the vaginal microbiocenosis and excessive dryness).

Vaginal contraception has virtually no contraindications. Allergic reactions to the components included in the product are very rare.

Emergency help

Non-hormonal contraceptive pills can be “emergency”, which are used by a woman after unprotected sexual intercourse. Thanks to the active substance mifepristone, the possibility of conception is reduced to nothing.

Emergency contraceptive pills before sexual intercourse have the following names:

• Genale;
• Gynepristone;
• Agesta.

Emergency contraceptive pills (table)

Important! If you want to get the maximum effect from using the product, you should additionally use barrier contraceptives, rather than administering disposable birth control pills several times at a time. This will increase the risk of side effects and negative consequences factor of.

New generation contraceptives

Today there are several effective means which are in particular demand. These drugs include drugs based on benzalkonium chloride and potassium hydrogen tartrate.

The first are represented by such tablets as:

• Nonoxynol;
• Benatex;
• Contratex;
• Gynekotex.

• Traceptin.

Nonoxynol and Pantex Oval

Pantext Oval

The first remedy is available in the form of suppositories, the second - in the form of suppositories, which must be inserted into the vagina 10 minutes before intercourse. Pantext Oval in addition contraceptive effect helps prevent the development of certain sexually transmitted infections. The product is very successful because it is highly effective.

The Pantex Oval package contains 10 pieces. The price of the product is 220-250 rubles

The package of Nonoxynol contains 6 or 12 pieces. The price is 200 and 300 rubles respectively.

These single-use contraceptive pills are available in the form of cream, vaginal tampons, tablets and suppositories.

The product allows you to protect against unwanted pregnancy, and also suppresses the activity of gonococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, type 2 herpes virus, and Trichomonas vaginalis.

The drug works for about three hours.

The package of candles contains 10 pieces. The price is 300-380 rubles.

There are 13 tablets in a package. Price – 250 rubles.

The package contains 1 tube of cream. Price – 350 rubles.

There are 2 tampons in a package. Price – about 350 rubles.

Benatex

Benatex

Benatex is a vaginal tablet. Like Pharmatex, it inhibits the activity of many microorganisms. To achieve maximum effect, the product must be inserted into the vagina as far as possible.

The drug works for three hours.

The package contains 10 pieces. Price – 250-300 rubles.

Contratex

The drug is produced in the form vaginal suppositories. Contratext protects both from pregnancy and from infections transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. Among which are streptococci, trichomonas, fungi, coli, Klebsiella, Gocococcus and Protea. Suppositories work for four hours.

The package contains 10 pieces. The price is about 320 rubles.

Erotekst are those that protect against conception and have an antimicrobial effect. The drug is active for three hours after administration.

There are 5 pieces in a package. The price of the product is 110 rubles.

Gynekotex

Produced in the form of ring-shaped tablets, which must be inserted inside, moving along the anterior wall of the vagina. In addition to the main task, the product is capable of performing another one and protecting a woman from the development of microorganisms such as E. coli, herpes virus, staphylococcus, Klebsiella, Proteus.

There are 12 pieces in a package. The price is about 100 rubles.

Non-hormonal contraceptives are good view contraception that can be used by almost any woman.

Content

Vaginal contraceptive pills are one of the alternative methods contraception, which can easily compete with condoms, caps and other popular ways to avoid pregnancy.

Advantages and disadvantages

Not all women may decide to try vaginal contraceptives due to fear of harming themselves. Here are a number of reasons why vaginal pills are safe and even beneficial for a girl's health and well-being:

1. Spermicidal effect (fighting sperm).
2. Destroy pathogenic microflora.
3. They do not disrupt hormonal levels.
4. Not absorbed into the bloodstream.
5. Can be used during lactation.
6. Additionally, they moisturize the vaginal walls, simulating vaginal lubrication.
7. Convenient to use.
8. There is no unpleasant smell.
9. Available in pharmacies without a prescription.

Substances in contraceptives destroy the membranes of sperm that enter the vagina. This reduces the risk of getting pregnant to almost zero.

Important! Rare cases when a woman becomes pregnant are not associated with the drug itself, but with its improper use.

During sexual intercourse, there is always a risk of contracting gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and herpes. Pathogens listed diseases do not survive under the influence of contraceptive substances, which prevents their reproduction and development in the vagina.

Main plus vaginal tablets– this is their non-hormonal action. They do not in any way affect the ratio of hormones in a woman’s blood, and, accordingly, the menstrual cycle and secondary sexual characteristics.

Without being absorbed into the systemic bloodstream, the aggressive substances of vaginal tablets cannot harm the body. Therefore, you should not be afraid of components in the composition such as benzalkonium chloride or nonoxylol - they will not affect other organs in any way.

Any contraceptives, including vaginal pills, have their own disadvantages:

1. Difficulties with hygiene after sexual intercourse.
2. Possibility of infrequent use.
3. Protection is not against all sexually transmitted diseases (HIV, syphilis).
4. Uncontrolled discharge of drug residues from the vagina.
5. The need to use contraceptives in advance.

The principle of action of birth control pills before sexual intercourse

The medicinal substances included in contraceptives envelop the walls of the vagina and are activated. When sperm enter the vaginal cavity, their membranes disintegrate as a result of a reaction with benzalkonium chloride or nonoxylene, the main spermicidal substances in contraceptives.

After the membrane is destroyed, sperm become inactive: their organelles are destroyed, and metabolism in the cell stops. In this condition, fertilization is impossible.

Attention! Some sperm can still escape the action of the reagents and reach the egg, but their number is not enough for fertilization.

Instructions for use

Birth control pills are administered intravaginally before sexual intercourse. The tablets must be moistened with water in advance so that the medicine can better disintegrate into active substances and remain on the walls of the vagina.

Important! The most comfortable position for administering the drug is lying on your back with your knees bent and legs apart.

In this position, it is easier to introduce contraceptives to a greater depth, which is necessary for an effective spermicidal effect.

1 tablet – 1 sexual act. A new dose must be used in 2 cases:

1. If the validity period has expired.
2. Before the next sex, even if the contraceptive has not yet expired.

Contraindications and side effects

Any medicine has its contraindications. Spermicidal preparations have few of them:

• Do not use vaginal tablets during pregnancy;
• you cannot use them daily;
• cannot be used during menstruation, with injuries to the vaginal mucosa and the presence of pathologies.

During pregnancy, there is a low probability of harming the fetus due to the aggressive action of the chemical components of the contraceptive.

Also, the use of contraception can negatively affect normal microflora vagina, but this should only be feared if used too frequently.

Allergy in the form of redness of the skin of the perineum or itching in the vagina is one of the few side effects of the drug.

Important! The occurrence of side effects even in one of the partners is a good reason to stop using vaginal contraceptives.

Names of birth control pills before intercourse for women

The proposed contraceptives are officially registered in the CIS countries, meet the requirements of the pharmacopoeia and are in an affordable price range.

Pharmatex

Pharmatex is a French-made medicine, available in several forms: vaginal tablets, cream, capsules, suppositories.

One vaginal tablet contains 20 mg of benzalkonium chloride, the main active ingredient in Pharmatex. The package contains 12 dosage forms.

Prices vary from 270 to 320 rubles. for one package. Stored at room temperature.

Activation of the contraceptive occurs quickly - in just 10 minutes. The duration of action is limited to three hours, and one tablet is consumed for one sexual act, regardless of the elapsed time.

Gynekotex

Gynecotex is a domestic drug that is available only in the form of vaginal tablets. Benzalkonium chloride is the main active substance medicine.

Gynecotex is administered intravaginally at least 5 minutes before sex, and it pharmachologic effect active up to 4 hours. Stored at temperatures up to + 25 °C.

One vaginal tablet contains 20 mg of the main substance. A total of 3 packaging options are available: 6, 10 and 12 tablets in one package. Now Ginekotex cannot be purchased at the pharmacy, but on the date of the last delivery of the drug, its cost was 110-130 rubles.

Contratex

Kontratex is another analogue contraceptive drugs based on benzalkonium chloride. Manufactured in Russia, the form of the medicinal product is vaginal suppositories. One suppository contains 18.9 mg active substance, there are only 5 of them in one package. Stored at temperatures up to + 25 °C.

Now Contratex is not sold in pharmacies, the price of new batches is unknown.

Patentex oval

Patentexoval n is a contraceptive in the form of vaginal suppositories made in Germany. One dose contains 75 mg of the active substance nonoxylol-9 and a number of additional compounds.

One pack can contain from 3 to 6 units of the drug. Suppositories are inserted intravaginally at least 10 minutes before sex. The drug is stored at temperatures up to + 25 °C. The price of Patentex starts from 400 rubles.

Traceptin

Traceptinum is a vaginal contraceptive pill manufactured in Tbilisi, Georgia. The tablet contains 600 mg of potassium hydrogen tartarate, which has spermicidal properties.

One pack contains 50 tablets. At least 10 minutes must pass before the contraceptives begin to take effect. The vaginal preparation is stored at room temperature.

Traceptin is currently not commercially available.

Erotex

The Ukrainian drug Erotex is available in the form of vaginal suppositories, which contain benzalkonium chloride. One suppository contains 18.9 mg of active substance. There are 5 units of the drug in total in the package.

The suppository is administered intravaginally 5 minutes before sexual intercourse. Action time – 4 hours. Unlike others medicines, Erotex is stored at temperatures from + 2 °C to + 15 °C.

Erotex is available at the pharmacy in the price range of 112-300 rubles.

Benatex

Benatex – Russian drug in the form of vaginal tablets with the active ingredient benzalkonium chloride. One dosage form contains 20 mg of benzalkonium chloride.

Packaging options from 5 to 12 tablets are available. Benatex must be used 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. Action time – 3 hours. Stored at room temperature. The product can be bought for 300-400 rubles.

Comparative characteristics of vaginal tablets are presented in the table:

To obtain high efficiency when using vaginal tablets and suppositories, it is important to adhere to the following rules:

• do not try to inject the drug too deeply, otherwise chemical substances get on the walls of the uterine cavity;
• do not use vaginal preparations with other contraceptives (except for condoms);
• perform a thorough toilet of your genitals before using the pill, but under no circumstances wash your face after sexual intercourse for at least 20-30 minutes. Soap and water will reduce the effectiveness of the birth control pill.

Conclusion

Vaginal contraceptive pills are easy to use and effective only if the woman complies with all the rules and requirements for use. But despite all the shortcomings, such contraceptives are good alternative popular methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy.

Types of contraceptives

• hormonal agents;
• contraceptive coils;
• contraceptives with spermicidal effect;
• barrier agents;
• natural methods.

Newest contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives

It is very important to consult a doctor before using hormonal drugs, since there are many serious contraindications for their use.

The action of hormonal contraceptives is based on the suppression of ovulation and thickening of the mucous secretion secreted by the cervix. Thick mucus prevents sperm from entering the uterine cavity, and the supply of sex hormones from the outside prevents the production of one’s own sex hormones, so the egg does not mature.

Birth control pills can be divided into 2 groups:
1. Combined oral contraceptives. Contains 2 hormones: estrogen and gestagen.
2. Mini-pills contain only gestagen.

Combined oral contraceptives, depending on the composition, are divided into monophasic and triphasic. In monophasic contraceptives (Regulon, Marvelon, Jess, Janine, Logest, Novinet, Rigevidon, etc.), all tablets contain the same amount of hormones. Three-phase contraceptives (Tri-Mercy, Triquilar, Tri-Regol) contain different quantities hormones.

Three-phase drugs are used less frequently. They are less well tolerated, despite the fact that their composition imitates changes in the content of sex hormones in women’s bodies during the menstrual cycle. Depending on the dose of the estrogen hormone, there are high-, low- and micro-dose combined oral contraceptives in the drug. Currently, low- and micro-dose tablets are more often prescribed. It is necessary to take oral contraceptives every day, at the same time.

Combined oral contraceptives should not be taken under the following conditions:

• cardiovascular diseases;
• blood clotting disorder;
• liver diseases;
• high blood pressure;
• severe headaches, migraines;
• overweight bodies;

age over 35 years;
• malignant neoplasms of the genital organs and mammary glands;
• increased level cholesterol;
• gallbladder diseases;
• age over 40 years;
• pregnancy and lactation period.

Adverse reactions during use oral contraceptives There may be irregular bleeding, fluid retention and weight gain. Their severity and frequency depend on the dose of the hormone contained in the tablets.

Safe contraceptives used during lactation include:

• Mini-pill– the composition contains only gestagens, thereby reducing the risk of a negative effect on the duration breastfeeding, quantity and quality of breast milk. Breastfeeding women can take them 5-6 weeks after birth. The disadvantage is frequent occurrence intermenstrual bloody discharge– a sign of the body’s adaptation to the drug. Before using oral contraceptives, you should consult a doctor.
• Injectable drug Depo-Provera, subcutaneous implant "Norplant" - also, due to its composition, do not affect lactation, have high efficiency. They have a long period of contraception - 5 years for a subcutaneous implant and 12 weeks for Depo-Provera. The disadvantages of the method are that they are prescribed and administered only by a doctor. Side effects the same as for drugs containing only gestagens. In the first 2 weeks there is a need to use additional methods contraception.
• Intrauterine devices– do not affect breastfeeding, are prescribed for up to 5 years and begin to act immediately after administration. Disadvantages of this method: possible discomfort lower abdomen during feeding, abundant and painful menstruation in the first months of use. They cannot be used if a woman has suffered inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages before or after pregnancy. Inserted and removed by a doctor.
• Barrier methods of contraception(condom, diaphragm) - quite effective during lactation if the rules of use are followed. They do not affect the baby’s health, the quantity and composition of breast milk.
• Spermicides– can also be used during breastfeeding, thanks to local action do not affect breast milk. Quite effective in correct use– can be used independently, without additional funds.

Contraception for women over 45 years of age

Ages from 45 years and older are characterized by a gradual decline in ovarian function and a decrease in the ability to conceive. Despite this, the likelihood of an unplanned pregnancy remains quite high, especially if regular menstrual cycles. Therefore, contraception is especially relevant during this period. Pregnancy at this age is accompanied by high risk complications such as miscarriage, gestosis, incorrect location of the placenta. Childbirth is more difficult and postpartum period, higher childhood morbidity and mortality. Also play an important role accompanying illnesses women - cardiovascular diseases, diseases of the digestive system, liver, urinary system, most often of a chronic nature.

It is important to use contraception not only until menopause (when menstruation has completely stopped). It is recommended to continue taking it for 2 years if menopause occurred after 45 years, and for 1 year if menopause occurred after 50 years.

The choice of a contraceptive method at this age is quite difficult, and is carried out only in conjunction with a doctor. It is necessary to conduct an examination to identify possible contraindications for one method or another.

• Barrier means(condoms) - safe to use, but quite often cause some inconvenience. Chemical spermicides are also widely used not only due to their contraceptive effect - they can reduce the phenomenon of vaginal dryness, which is important for perimenopausal women.
• Intrauterine devices are often contraindicated at this age due to the large number of diseases of the body and cervix. If there are no contraindications for use, preference should be given to hormone-producing coils (Mirena), since they not only have contraceptive, but also therapeutic effect– for menorrhagia ( uterine bleeding) reduce the volume of menstrual blood loss, promote prevention inflammatory diseases genital organs, reduce the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.
• Hormonal drugs– Progestin agents such as mini-pills, Depo-Provera, Norplant are used with advantage. They are not able to influence blood clotting, lipid metabolism, liver function. The use of combined oral contraceptives is quite limited. They are used only if the woman does not smoke (smoking is absolute contraindication to their prescription), and there are no other risk factors for the development of thrombosis and coronary heart disease. Preference is given to low-dose drugs, such as Logest, Mercilon.
• Sterilization is the most reliable method of contraception, but it is rarely used because this method is quite invasive and involves surgery.
• Emergency contraception at the age of 45 it is used extremely rarely, since the use large doses hormones causes strong adverse reactions.