An Overview Of The Contraceptive Pills

Hormonal contraceptive methods have proven to be very effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy in women. Contraceptive pills, contraceptive rings and contraceptive patches are the three popular hormonal contraceptive methods amongst women. The oral contraceptive pills have been divided into two categories of combination pills and mini pills. This division has been carried out on the basis of the hormones present in the pill. The contraceptive patches and rings are slowly gaining popularity among women and have been proven to be equally effective as that of the contraceptive pills.

What are combined pills?

Combined pills are a type of the oral contraceptive pills that are widely used by women for preventing unplanned pregnancy. The first of combined pills was introduced in the 1960s. These pills consist of two artificial female hormones of oestrogen and progestogen. These pills protect you against pregnancy in three different ways with the help of these two female hormones. These pills also help in regulating your periods, making them less painful, minimising the risk of developing ovarian cysts and symptoms of endometriosis.

What are mini pills?

Mini pills are often misunderstood as a lighter dosage version of the combined pills, which is not correct. The only major difference between the two pills is that mini pills consist of only one artificial female hormone of progestogen, but in terms of effectiveness the two pills are similar. Mini pills generally protect you against pregnancy in two ways. This pill is especially effective for women who are allergic to oestrogen, are breastfeeding or for women who are above 35 years of age and smoke. Another advantage of this pill is that you are less likely to experience side effects of mini pills.

What is Yasmin?

Yasmin is the most popular of all combined pills that are used by women for prevention of unplanned pregnancy. It has been proven to be almost 100% effective in preventing women from getting pregnant. This pill can be taken by women who are 18 years old or above, but should be avoided by those who are pregnant or are breastfeeding. You are required to take this pill for 21 days of your 28 day menstrual cycle, with a 7 day break before you start a new pack. Apart from protecting you against pregnancy, it also helps in improving the appearance of your skin and excessive facial growth.What is Cerazette?

Cerazette is one of the most popular mini pills that are used by women to prevent them from getting pregnant. This pill has been proven to be almost 99% effective in protecting women against pregnancy. This pill consists of desogestrel (artificial progesterone, 75 micrograms) as its active ingredient. Cerazette is the only mini pill that actually prevents ovulation from occurring unlike other mini pills. It also prevents the sperm from entering your womb by thickening the cervical mucus. You are required to take this pill for all 28 days of your menstrual cycle.