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. Triphasic contraceptives (Tri-Mercy, Triquilar, Tri-Regol) contain different amounts of 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;
• excess body weight;

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

Adverse reactions when using oral contraceptives may include irregular bleeding, fluid retention in the body 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, which reduces the risk of negative effects on the duration of breastfeeding, the quantity and quality of breast milk. Breastfeeding women can take them 5-6 weeks after birth. The disadvantage is the frequent occurrence of intermenstrual bleeding - 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 their composition, do not affect lactation and are highly effective. 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 are the same as for drugs containing only gestagens. In the first 2 weeks there is a need to use additional methods of 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 unpleasant sensations in the lower abdomen during feeding, heavy 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; due to its local action, it does not affect breast milk. Quite effective when used correctly - 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 are maintained. Therefore, contraception is especially relevant during this period. Pregnancy at this age is accompanied by a high risk of complications, such as miscarriage, gestosis, and abnormal location of the placenta. Childbirth and the postpartum period are more difficult, and child morbidity and mortality are higher. Concomitant diseases of women also play an important role - cardiovascular, 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 a particular method.

• 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 to use, preference should be given to hormone-producing coils (Mirena), since they have not only a contraceptive, but also a therapeutic effect - in case of menorrhagia (uterine bleeding), they reduce the volume of menstrual blood loss, help prevent inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, and 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 coagulation, lipid metabolism, or liver function. The use of combined oral contraceptives is quite limited. They are used only if the woman does not smoke (smoking is an absolute contraindication to their use), 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 of large doses of hormones causes severe adverse reactions.

The latest birth control pills: freedom of choice. Hormonal and non-hormonal, used after intercourse. Which ones are better to use?

Thank you

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 abortions. Abortion is a real operation that often leads to infertility, menstrual irregularities, miscarriages, and even 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

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

• 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.

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.

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, 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, Demoulen, 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?

Choosing a contraceptive is difficult and should be taken seriously.

Ideally, a specialist should select contraceptive drugs, but sometimes the 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, the nature of menstruation, duration of the menstrual cycle, the presence of toxicosis during a previous pregnancy, the 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 estrogenic 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

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

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

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

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.

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

Estrogens for emergency contraception have not been used so often lately, 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.

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

Menstruation upon admission

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

Bleeding when taken

If heavy bleeding occurs, consult a doctor.

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

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?

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?

Pregnancy after stopping birth control pills

Is it possible to stop taking birth control pills?

Which is better: birth control pills or the IUD?

The best birth control pills

Jess

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.

Novinet

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.

Reviews about Novinet are mostly positive.

Janine

The active ingredients are dienogest and ethinyl estradiol.

Janine take 1 tablet per day for three weeks. Then they take a break for a week, after which the course is repeated.

Reviews about Janine prove a truly pronounced contraceptive effect.

Regulon

Regulon helps with menstrual disorders and uterine bleeding.

Reviews about Regulon
Women who have taken this drug note the quality of the drug and its reliability. Regulon acts much more gently than other drugs. It was often recommended by doctors for use by teenagers and young girls. With long-term use it does not cause side effects, reliably protects against unwanted pregnancy and does not contribute to weight gain.

Women who have used it for medicinal purposes speak positively about Regulon. The drug helps with uterine bleeding, heavy vaginal discharge, improves the quality and appearance of hair, nails and skin.

Yarina

The drug is well tolerated and has minor side effects. During administration, the woman’s weight remains unchanged, there is no nausea or vomiting, and the therapeutic effect is pronounced - a decrease in premenstrual symptoms, symptoms of seborrhea, acne.

Women taking Yarina noted the high reliability of the drug, as well as improved mood, restoration of libido, and normalization of the menstrual cycle.

The minimum cost of a monthly dose of the drug in Russia ranges from 600 rubles.

Logest

The effect of the drug is based on inhibition of ovulation, increasing the viscosity of the secretion, which impedes the movement of sperm and prevents implantation of the egg in the uterus.

Taking the pills starts on the first day of the menstrual cycle. Take 1 tablet daily for 21 days. Then they take a week break, after which the course is repeated.

When the drug is discontinued, the body's ability to conceive is completely restored.

The price of the drug ranges from 330 to 450 rubles per package.

Claira

Qlaira is a natural oral contraceptive. For the first time, the composition of a combined hormonal contraceptive preparation did not include ethinyl estradiol as an active substance. It was successfully replaced by the softer and safer hormone estradiolavalerate, which is a hormone with a natural formula. This hormone has been well studied and is used mainly to treat symptoms of menopause.

To enhance contraceptive functions, scientists added the active substance dienogest to estradiol valeriat, which also solved the problem of intermenstrual bleeding.

The procedure for taking the drug has also been changed. It has a unique dynamic dosing mode. Qlaira is a four-phase hormonal drug. The package contains two placebo tablets, that is, they do not contain the active ingredient, and 26 active tablets with different doses of the active substance. Doses of estrogen when taken are gradually reduced, and doses of gestagen are increased. This dosage regimen increases the effectiveness of the drug several times.

At the present stage of development of contraception, the drug Qlaira is revolutionary, providing a high degree of protection and treatment of female diseases.

Despite a very large selection of birth control pills, the percentage of abortions remains high in our country. Women do not have sufficient information about the drugs, they experience panic fear of using hormonal drugs, not allowing the idea that safe and reliable contraceptives have appeared at the present stage. New generation birth control pills, containing reduced doses of active substances, can help women plan a pregnancy without the risk of complications and abortions.

Hormones have a significant impact on the female body and its functions. Water-salt balance, metabolism, bone health, sexual development and fertility are just a few of them. Certain hormones, such as insulin, which controls blood glucose, cannot be taken orally because the digestive system will destroy it. However, many others are well-absorbed and available in tablet, capsule, and pill form.

Gynecologists and endocrinologists often prescribe hormonal medications to women to treat conditions or control specific body functions that are closely related to hormone production.

WOMEN'S HORMONAL PILLS: LIST AND DESCRIPTIONS

1. Estrogens

In women, these sex hormones are normally produced in sufficient quantities by the ovaries. The doctor may prescribe estrogens in the form of female hormonal pills for menopause (for example, Femoston or Divina) to treat hot flashes, fever, vaginal dryness and other symptoms. They can be prescribed for amenorrhea and deficiency of this female hormone. In addition, estrogens may be indicated for the prevention of osteoporosis and bone loss in postmenopausal women after 40–45 years of age.

Female hormone medications that contain only estrogen may increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Combined hormone replacement therapy, which contains both estrogens and progestogens, usually does not cause this side effect. This combination is also used as a contraceptive.

The most popular hormonal pills and preparations with estrogen for women in Russia and the CIS, which can be bought at the pharmacy:

• Climara patch - estradiol,
• Proginova dragee - estradiol valerate,
• Estrofem tablets - estradiol,
• gel Divigel - estradiol,
• gel Oestrogel - estradiol (in the form of hemihydrate),
• Ovestin suppositories - estriol.

Additional list of female hormonal drugs with estrogens (names):

• Cenestin (Senestin) tablets,
• femtrace,
• Ogen (Ogen),
• Vivelle-Dot,
• Menest,
• Elestrin (including in gel form),
• Femring (vaginal estrogen),
• Premarin
• Evamist (estrogen spray for application to the skin),
• Vagifem,
• Minivelle (patch),
• Estrace (also as vaginal cream),
• Enjuvia,
• Estrasorb,
• Estring,
• Estraderm (Estraderm),
• Yuvafem,
• Alora,
• Delestrogen (Delestrogen),
• Depo-Estradiol,
• Esclim,
• Estradot,
• Gynodiol,
• Menostar,
• Oesclim,
• Ortho-Est.

Hormonal medications are prescription drugs! The use of any of them is possible only on the recommendation of a doctor and after passing tests. Taking hormones has a large list of contraindications and side effects; before using them, you must carefully read the instructions.

If there are symptoms (anovulation and infertility, and/or male pattern baldness) and indications based on test results, the girl may also be prescribed.

1. Progestogens and their combinations with estrogen

Progestogens (progestins, gestagens) are synthetic hormones that, when entering the female body, work like natural progesterone. Combined estrogen and progestogen preparations are most often used as birth control pills. They suppress ovulation, without which conception is impossible. Combination contraceptives are also sometimes prescribed to relieve pain or bleeding caused by endometriosis or fibroids.

Instead of COCs, girls are sometimes prescribed female hormonal pills, mini-pills. They do not contain estrogen and contain only a small dose of progestin. For emergency contraception, progestin pills may also be prescribed, but at a higher dose (Plan B, Next Choice).

Progestins are also used to treat amenorrhea, premenstrual tension, and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Frequently prescribed progestin drugs for women:

• Duphaston tablets - dydrogesterone,
• capsules Utrozhestan (Utrogectan) - progesterone,
• Progestogel gel - progesterone,
• Mirena spiral - levonorgestrel,
• Postinor tablets - levonorgestrel,
• table Exluton - linestrenol,
• tab. Norkolut - norethisterone.

Combined estrogen-progestogen female hormonal drugs:

• Femoston tablets,
• Femoden dragee,
• table Mercilon,
• dragee Klimonorm,
• tab. Marvelon,
• table Divina,
• dragee Cyclo-Proginova (Cyclo-Proginova),
• table Microgynon,
• tbl. Marvelon,
• drj Triquilar.

Additional list of drugs:

• Megace ES,
• Plan B
• Heather,
• Fallback Solo,
• Next Choice
• Kyleena,
• Megace (Megays),
• Opcicon One-Step,
• Makena,
• Skyla,
• Aftera,
• Provera,
• Implanon (Implanon NKST),
• Ortho Micronor,
• Aygestin,
• Liletta,
• Lisa (Lisa),
• Jencycla,
• Nexplanon (Nexplanon),
• debo-subQ provera 104 (injections),
• Jolivette,
• Nora-Be,
• EContra EZ,
• Crinone,
• Nor-QD,
• Endometrin,
• First Progesterone MC10,
• Hylutin,
• Prodrox.

1. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid hormone pills work in the same way as natural cortisol and other hormones produced by the adrenal glands. The corticosteroid medications most often prescribed by doctors are hydrocortisone (Cortef), dexamethasone, methylprednisolone (Medrol), and prednisone.

These drugs have anti-inflammatory properties and are often prescribed for the treatment of chronic inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, including seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, asthma, arthritis, lupus erythematosus, ulcerative colitis, etc. Hydrocortisone is also indicated for people with adrenal insufficiency and low cortisol.

1. Levothyroxine

Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levothroid) - drugs with this active ingredient are used to treat people with hypothyroidism. This condition is more common in women and usually occurs because the immune system begins to attack the thyroid gland. The risk of hypothyroidism increases with age and occurs in approximately 10% of women and 6% of men over 65 years of age.

FEMALE HORMONAL PILLS: CONTRAINDICATIONS AND EFFECTS ON THE BODY

Before starting hormone therapy, be sure to tell your doctor if you have:

• there is or has been vaginal bleeding,
• there is a predisposition to certain types of cancer (uterine, ovarian, breast),
• have or may develop blood clots, stroke, heart problems,
• disorders of the circulatory system,
• diseases,
• suspicion of pregnancy.

Hormonal medications have side effects. Serious health problems can occur in women taking menopausal hormone therapy over the age of 50.

These are a variety of medicinal products of different forms (most often found in the form of tablets). Numerous prejudices and fears are associated with them. Indeed, drugs made from artificial hormones have their side effects, just like any other drugs. And yet, the nature of hormonal drugs involuntarily forces them to be avoided.

Operating principle

Hormones in the human body in different parts trigger a certain mechanism. So, for example, the birth of an egg begins in the genitals. Artificial analogues, entering the blood, seem to convey the necessary information to the body. As a result, some therapeutic response (stimulation, mobilization) is expected.

How is the relative harmlessness of drugs assessed?

Before going on sale, any drug is tested through a long-term study. However, the work has been carried out for no more than 10 years. Therefore, it is impossible to say with certainty what harm certain medications have caused to the body and whether it will cause

“sideways” taking them after a long period of time. When artificial analogues enter the body, it stops producing its own hormones. This cannot but change the natural course of all processes. Doctors reassure: all functions are gradually restored without harm. And the instructions say that the side effects of hormonal drugs appear, as a rule, only at the initial stage of their use. And although no one has conducted additional studies, the scientific community, over more than 45 years of practice, would have noticed regular connections between the deterioration of the health of patients decades later and their use of hormonal drugs in the past.

When hormones are irreplaceable

Since doctors began using hormonal drugs for treatment, incredible results have been achieved in the fight against serious diseases such as asthma, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes, and lupus erythematosus. In such situations, when there is a real threat to the patient’s life (attacks of suffocation due to severe asthma, collapse due to adrenal insufficiency), steroids save. And the action of insulin is used as a powerful means to lower blood sugar levels; failure to use it in a difficult situation can lead to a hypoglycemic coma. There are no other similar (equally effective) medicines. Thus, in some cases, hormonal drugs have become truly irreplaceable. In addition, modern developments have helped achieve good results in contraception using sex hormones. The latest advances in pharmacology have made it possible to reduce side effects to a minimum. However, it should be remembered that you cannot take pills (oral contraceptives) for more than 5 years, since later the result will be irreversible (possibly infertility).

To accept or not

Roughly interfering with the functioning of an established system, hormone analogues change metabolism and can lead to its disruption. They can hide the pronounced symptoms of the disease without treating its cause. Indeed, using these drugs without the vigilant supervision of the attending physician is dangerous, like any other modern medicines: painkillers, antibiotics (the name itself should be scary: bios - “life”, anti - “against”) and others. Due to the free access (some drugs, for example hormonal contraceptive pills, are sold without a prescription) to medications, we have to talk about their harm in large quantities, in case of overdose, or if used incorrectly.

Choosing "yes"

If the attending physician believes that there is a need for hormonal drugs, you should not refuse them; you should carefully read the instructions for use. Finally, ask what signs led him to this conclusion (test results, seriousness of the situation). There is no need to give in to fears if artificial hormones can prolong your life, protect you from dangerous abortion, and alleviate suffering.

Choosing "no"

You should not use hormonal drugs for other purposes, for example, steroids for building muscle mass or hormonal pills that are not suitable for a woman’s phenotype (increased content of estrogen in the body - Regivedron is suitable, progesterone - Anteovin). This rash decision can lead to serious irreversible consequences: in the first case, up to the death of brain cells, in the second - to infertility. The choice can only be made by a doctor and only after a thorough examination.

Today, contraception using hormones occupies a leading position in effectiveness among all methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy. These drugs contain estrogens and progestins - synthetically created female sex hormones.

Medicines produced in tablet form, the main active ingredients of which are hormones used to prevent pregnancy, are called combined oral contraceptives.

Classification

Based on the amount of estrogen and progestin content, contraceptives are:

1. Single-phase or monophasic - tablets containing the same amount of hormones are used daily throughout the menstrual cycle. The main drugs of the group have the following names: Regulon, Diane-35, Novinet, Logest. Such drugs are more often used by young, nulliparous women under 24–26 years of age.
2. Two-phase. Preparations with different contents of these hormones. A representative of this group is the drug Anteovin.
3. Three-phase. Thanks to the variable amount of hormones, the drugs imitate their quantitative changes in the female body. Among the representatives of this group are: Triziston, Triquilar, Tri-regol.

Throughout the menstrual cycle, there are natural fluctuations in the levels of different hormones in a woman's body. By imitating them, three-phase contraceptives are the most physiological; monophasic drugs have this ability to the least extent. But this fact does not indicate the advantage of triphasic hormonal drugs over others. All contraceptives are selected personally.

According to experts, in most cases, monophasic tablets are more suitable for young girls. Women over 27 years of age are predominantly prescribed three-phase contraceptives.

One package of single-phase drugs most often contains 21 tablets, much less often there will be 28. And three-phase drugs, on the contrary, always contain 28 tablets of three different colors.

Based on the quantitative content of estrogen calculated per daily intake, drugs are divided into:

1. Highly dosed.
2. Low dosage.
3. Microdosed.

Operating principle

The progestogen component of the drugs has the main effect of birth control pills.

Any contraceptive contains exogenous estrogen. Its main purpose is to compensate for its deficiency that occurs when taking medications. The predominant formation of estrogen in a woman’s body occurs in the ovaries. Combined oral contraceptives block its synthesis by stopping the growth and maturation of follicles. The fundamental principle of estrogen's action is to control the course of the menstrual cycle and the physiological reproduction of cells in the uterine mucosa, which is clinically manifested by the absence of intermenstrual bleeding.

The principle of action of birth control pills is the same, regardless of the quantitative value of hormones:

1. The development and release of the egg from the follicle is stopped.
2. They impede the movement of sperm due to the strong viscosity of cervical secretions.
3. They act on the mucous layer of the uterus, preventing the fixation of the embryo.
4. Slow down the movement of sperm through the fallopian tubes.

All these mechanisms of influence on conception and the further development of the fertilized egg elevate combined oral contraceptives to the rank of the most effective drugs for preventing pregnancy.

Doctor's help

Different groups of drugs contain different doses of hormones, which determines their specific drug effects and side effects. Therefore, personal selection of contraceptives is the task of a gynecologist.

You cannot buy or use combined oral contraceptives on your own without a doctor’s prescription and consultation!

To select a specific drug, the doctor prescribes the necessary list of examinations to assess risk factors and identify contraindications to taking different groups of contraceptives:

1. Examination by an obstetrician-gynecologist. Study of the cellular and microbial components of smears taken from the walls of the vagina and cervix. Examination for tumor and infectious diseases.
2. Instrumental examination of the pelvic organs using ultrasound (ultrasound). The examination is performed twice after menstruation and before the next one during one cycle. When performing it, the doctor monitors the growth and differentiation of cells in the mucous wall of the uterus, the processes of follicle growth and ovulation. At the same time, concomitant anatomical and functional pathology of the pelvic organs is excluded.
3. Examination of the mammary glands. It can be performed by a gynecologist and mammologist.
4. Examination of the mammary glands using ultrasound (ultrasound) to exclude tumor formations. According to indications, mammography is prescribed.
5. According to indications, it is possible to prescribe laboratory tests to monitor the levels of hormones in the blood.

Only after conducting strictly individual studies can a doctor select a specific combination oral contraceptive drug for a woman.

Drug selection scheme:

1. Survey about previous and chronic diseases. Collection of information about family diseases. Gynecologist examination data. Using the World Health Organization's universal eligibility criteria, to determine whether a given woman is eligible for different types of contraception.
2. Selection of a drug from a certain group of combined oral contraceptives, based on their properties and required therapeutic effects.
3. Within a period of three to four months, monitoring the woman’s health and determining her general condition. Monitoring the effect of hormonal contraceptives. Determination of drug tolerability.
4. If side effects or individual intolerance to drug components occur, replace or discontinue the contraceptive.
5. Registration of a woman during the period of use of combined oral contraceptives. Scheduled gynecological appointment once every six months.

Symptoms that should alert a woman:

1. Heaviness and intense pain in the legs.
2. Unbearable pain in the abdomen and chest.
3. The appearance of weakness and malaise for one month or more.
4. Hearing loss.
5. Speech and vision impairment.

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately. They may be a manifestation of individual intolerance to drug components or symptoms of a disease, the occurrence of which could be provoked by the use of combined oral contraceptives.

How to take contraceptives?

Oral contraceptives are available in packages of 21 and 28 tablets. Using arrows or indicating the days of the week on the blister, manufacturers determine the order in which they should be taken. Birth control pills begin to work from the first week of taking them.

How to properly take birth control pills containing 21 capsules? To achieve the contraceptive effect of the drugs, they must be used one tablet daily. You need to start taking birth control pills from the first day of your menstrual cycle. At the end of their intake, a pause is made for seven days. After this, they begin a newly purchased pack of contraceptives. During this week, a reaction similar to menstruation appears. During the break, the contraceptive effect of the drugs is maintained, so additional precautions are not required.

It is imperative to start taking birth control pills containing 28 tablets from the first day of the cycle, but they are used without a seven-day interval. After finishing one package, immediately start a new one. A menstrual-like reaction occurs between days 21 and 28 of the cycle.

At the end of a year of taking oral contraceptives, it is necessary to pause their use for three to four months to resume the hormone-producing function of the ovaries. During this period, in order to protect against unplanned pregnancy, it is necessary to use other contraceptive measures.

Remember that combined oral contraceptives are incompatible with a number of other groups of drugs.

These are not compatible with:

1. Anticonvulsants.
2. Antibacterial drugs.
3. Medicines needed to treat lung diseases.

The combined use of these groups of drugs initiates the appearance of side effects and leads to a decrease in contraceptive properties. This is the time when you will need to find additional protective measures.

Every time doctors prescribe medications for the treatment of extragenital pathologies, it is necessary to warn about taking combined oral contraceptives.

Studies have proven the absence of harmful effects on the course of pregnancy and the fetus when using drugs before conception. At the first suspicion of pregnancy, it is necessary to interrupt the use of contraceptives. Occasional use of drugs in the early stages of pregnancy is also not scary. Also, taking them is not a reason to interrupt it.

After finishing taking oral contraceptives, adequate functioning of the endocrine-reproductive system is resumed in a short time. Short-term use of drugs leads to stimulation of the growth and maturation of eggs by increasing the sensitivity of receptors of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system. Within a year of stopping the use of oral contraceptives, more than 80% of women become pregnant. This fact corresponds to the level of fertility in the population.

Menstruation appears after stopping the use of oral contraceptives in a period equal to the time of restoration of the uterine mucosa. A small number of women develop amenorrhea (lack of menstruation) lasting up to six months. If such a situation occurs, you should consult a doctor.

What to do if you miss an appointment?

If you forget to take one pill, you must take it immediately. The next dose of contraceptives should be taken at its normal time, even if you need to take two tablets per day. If you are less than 12 hours late in taking the drug, there is no need to use other contraceptive measures. If the time is exceeded, it is possible to use another type of birth control before the start of the next menstruation.

How to take birth control pills if you miss two pills? It is necessary to immediately take them as soon as you remember. The next day you need to take the next two tablets. Due to the excessive intake of hormones in the blood, spotting may occur. The contraceptive effect of the drugs decreases, which requires the use of other methods of birth control.

If you miss more pills, you should think about abandoning this method of contraception. This is the time when they begin to select and use other methods of birth control.