The birth control pill, colloquially known as simply the pill, offers especially young women the possibility of safe contraception. If they pay attention to the package insert as well as the instructions for taking, so the occurrence of pregnancy can be almost excluded by taking the birth control pill.
What is a birth control pill?
Taking the birth control pill should always be agreed with the gynecologist. The birth control pill is a very safe hormonal contraceptive for women in tablet form. Correct use of the contraceptive pill is of great importance for contraceptive safety, so that the hormones progestin and estrogen contained can act and thus reliably prevent pregnancy. These hormones suppress the maturation of the egg cell and thus ovulation, and also prevent implantation of the egg cell in the lining of the uterus. Some preparations also alter the woman’s mucus so that the man’s sperm cannot reach the egg. In recent years, it has been possible to greatly reduce the dosage of hormones in the contraceptive pill, so that the so-called mini-pill, which contains only progestins, is also excellently suited for use in very young women and offers them safe protection. The birth control pill has been available in Germany for about 50 years, so both gynecologists and scientists can draw on a wealth of experience in its use.
Application, benefits and use
It is essential that the birth control pill containing estrogen and progestin be prescribed by a gynecologist, as not every preparation is suitable for every woman. The gynecologist can choose between different combination preparations, called single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase pills, each of which has different hormonal modes of action. In addition, he will inform the woman about possible risks as well as interactions of the contraceptive pill. A pill pack contains between 20 and 22 tablets. The woman starts taking the pill on the first day of her menstrual period and then takes one pill a day until the pack is empty. This is followed by a one-week pill break, during which menstruation-like but usually painless bleeding occurs. The birth control pill should be taken at approximately the same time each day to ensure a high level of contraceptive safety. The minipill, which is also available, contains only progestins and must therefore be taken at exactly the same time every day for 28 days. The minipill is particularly suitable for women who have problems taking estrogen or who fear side effects such as thrombosis when taking the birth control pill.
Interactions with other medications
Anyone who wants to take the birth control pill should inform their gynecologist about their other medications, as the birth control pill can lose its effectiveness when combined with other medications. For example, special care should be taken when taking antibiotics at the same time, as these can cancel out the effect of the contraceptive pill. Additional mechanical contraception, for example with a condom, is therefore strongly recommended. However, herbal preparations such as St. John’s wort can also influence the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill. Caution is also advised when taking certain painkillers, laxatives, anti-inflammatory drugs and tranquilizers. Women should be sure to discuss their medications with their treating gynecologist so they know if they can continue to rely on the birth control pill to work. The reliable contraceptive effect of the birth control pill is also at risk if a gastrointestinal infection occurs with vomiting or diarrhea. Taking the contraceptive pill also does not protect against contracting AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases. Those who have frequently changing sexual partners should use a condom for contraception to be on the safe side, as this provides protection against most STDs in addition to the birth control pill.
Risks and side effects
The birth control pill brings many women great relief from the monthly pain of menstruation. In addition, the birth control pill always has a regulating effect on the female cycle and many women also report an improvement in their acne. But unfortunately, unpleasant side effects can also occur when taking the birth control pill.These include, for example, unpleasant intermittent bleeding, weight gain, breast tenderness or nausea. Some women also complain of reduced sexual desire and low mood. The hormones contained in the contraceptive pill also increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer typical of women, such as cervical cancer or breast cancer, which is why a thorough examination by a gynecologist is urgently required before taking the contraceptive pill. Those who have an increased risk of thrombosis or problems with the liver will probably not be able to use the contraceptive pill for contraception, but will have to resort to other contraceptives. Gynecologists are also often wary of smokers, since the risk of thrombosis is increased by taking the birth control pill, especially in older patients.