How to choose birth control pills yourself - types of pills, features of choice by age

Combined oral medications (COCs)

The drugs are based on 2 synthetic hormones: estrogen and progesterone. Any of the COC groups acts on the principle of blocking ovulation . Reliability is extremely high thanks to progesterone. Estrogen controls menstruation and does not affect pregnancy.

Qlaira tablets

COCs are divided into several groups. The classification is based on the characteristics of women: age, presence of a child, problems with hormone balance.

Microdosed tablets. This group of contraceptives is intended for women who have not given birth but are sexually active. Side effects of the drugs are minimal. These contraceptive pills contain in their list such drugs as (abbreviated names): Qlaira, Jace, Dimia.

Qlaira blisters contain several types of tablets, which must be taken strictly according to the instructions. With the tablets, 2 hormones enter the body - estradiol valerate and dienogest . They suppress ovulation. Dienogest has a positive effect on a woman's appearance. The price of the drug is from 700 rubles.

James is a product with main and additional tablets. There are 24 main ones, and 4 additional ones. The drug suppresses ovulation . Cost about 1 thousand rubles.

Dimia is an analogue of James for the same price. The active ingredients of the drug are different.

Low dose birth control pills. Used by women for whom microdosed tablets are not suitable:

The group's drugs include: Yarina, Janine, Silhouette.

Yarina is taken for 21 days in the order indicated in the instructions. Yarina tablets cannot be combined with other drugs , as this reduces reliability and causes bleeding. Costs from 950 rubles.

Janine is an expensive drug, the price starts from 1,650 rubles, depending on the place of purchase. Produced in Germany.

The tablets contain substances that have a beneficial effect on the gastric mucosa and the woman’s body as a whole.

High dosage tablets. As a contraceptive during periods of hormonal imbalance, it is recommended to take the following birth control pills (list of abbreviated names): Tri-regol, Triquilar, Triziston. Tri-Regol costs 200 rubles. There are cheap analogues.

Triziston is produced in Germany. The action of the drug is aimed at inhibiting the production of gonadotropic hormones . Price – from 500 rub. The active substances begin to act on the body after 2 hours.

Note! Highly dosed medications should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor!

List of popular means

Doctors prescribe low-dose combination drugs of the latest generation of progestogens to teenage girls. They are most in demand due to the rare occurrence of side effects.

The list includes:

• Midiana;
• Jess;
• Belara;
• Dimia;
• Lindinet 20.

Bleeding will begin on the 2-3rd day of taking the medicine.

Pills without hormones

The drugs in this group do not contain hormones; they are injected directly into the vagina. Non-hormonal tablets are sometimes classified as spermicides - suppositories, gels, creams.

Escapelle tablets

The active substance of non-hormonal drugs is benzalkonium chloride or nonoxynol. Their goal is to destroy the sperm membrane, which prevents pregnancy.

List of such contraceptives (abbreviated names): Ginekotex, Pharmatex, Postinor, Escapelle.

Disadvantages and contraindications

Non-hormonal drugs are administered orally at least a quarter of an hour before copulation. This helps to avoid talking to your partner before each intercourse and pregnancy. When using the medication, it is not recommended to take a shower or bath before and after sex. The instructions indicate the time that must be waited.

Non-hormonal drugs contain acid, which causes itching, burning and irritation of the vaginal mucosa. Gynecologists do not advise frequently resorting to this type of protection. Long-term use of non-hormonal drugs leads to disruption of the internal microflora, resulting in the development of dysbacteriosis.

There are practically no contraindications to this contraception. Such products are not used only in case of hypersensitivity or intolerance to the components.

The newest generation of contraceptives

Modern new generation contraceptives not only have a hormonal effect on the reproductive system, but also create an aggressive environment for sperm.

Drug "Jess"

The scheme of action also has an abortive component, in which sperm come under the influence of the active substance of the drug and die.

The fewer synthetic hormones in the drug that affect embryo implantation, the higher the abortive effect of the drug.

The doses of the active substance vary - if the drug contains a small amount of a substance that kills sperm, then a large amount of the hormone to affect the embryo.

Unwanted pregnancy is prevented step by step - in 2 stages.

The new generation of birth control pills is represented by such drugs as (abbreviated list of names): Jess and Jess Plus, Marvelon, Nuvaring, Depo-Prover.

Inappropriate Methods

Along with COCs, the intrauterine device is considered an effective method of contraception. However, using this option is not recommended for girls who have not yet experienced the happiness of motherhood. The ban is due to possible complications after installing the IUD. During the procedure, damage to the uterine cavity or cervix may occur, which can lead to infertility. When installing an IUD in nulliparous women, there is a high risk of expulsion: the body rejects the device, resulting in heavy bleeding.

Many partners use interrupted coitus as protection.
However, this method can hardly be called a protection option, because the chances of conception remain high. Fertilization can occur from sperm that are in the lubricant. Unreliable methods of protection include calculating dangerous days. The likelihood of conception still remains. The method is irrelevant if sex life is chaotic. Young girls need to choose only reliable and safe methods of contraception.

Contraceptive 28 days

The 28-day birth control pill is a popular option for Jess.

Before you start taking hormonal contraceptives, you should consult a gynecologist . This is due to the different amounts of synthetic hormones in the drugs and how they affect the woman’s body both when taken and subsequently.

Not all pills are suitable for all women . In addition, there are certain risks that should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

How to use

The package contains instructions for use, which detail the mechanisms for using the medicine, but there are general rules and how to use the medicines. 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 instruct you not to shower or use intimate hygiene products for some time before and after sex. Single-use medications can cause irritation and burning in the intimate area. If symptoms occur, the medication should be discontinued. Before using medicinal contraceptives, you should consult your doctor.

Emergency contraception and hormone-free methods

Emergency contraception differs from interruption in that the former is carried out during ovulation. That is, at the moment the sperm and egg meet, special drugs act on them .

Sometimes urgent contraception is required

Their goal is to prevent the meeting or prevent the encountered zygote from consolidating in the uterus. Such drugs take only 6 days to act: 3 days for the egg to move to the uterus and 3 days for consolidation.

If time is lost, then resort to termination of pregnancy at an early stage.

Emergency contraception

The need for emergency contraception after sexual intercourse occurs when spontaneous unprotected sexual intercourse occurs, the condom breaks, or there is a pause in taking hormonal contraceptives. This method is also used to prevent pregnancy after rape.

There are no non-hormonal emergency contraceptives. Preparations for postcoital contraception are steroid drugs; they belong to the group of antiprogestins that block the sensitivity of receptors to progesterone.

The effect is achieved through several mechanisms:

1. Delayed ovulation. Sperm have normal activity for three days. Antiprogestins delay the maturation and release of the egg from the follicle for 3–4 days. During this time, all the sperm that penetrated the tubes will have time to die.
2. Preventing implantation of a fertilized egg. Thanks to the action of the drug, it will not be able to gain a foothold in the endometrium, which means pregnancy will not develop.
3. An increase in muscle tone and contractility of the uterus, as a result of which the fertilized egg is excreted along with the transformed endometrium.

Emergency contraceptive pills only work for 72 hours after sexual intercourse.

The most commonly used drugs for emergency contraception are Danazol and Mifepristone. Only a doctor can prescribe them.

Video: what is emergency contraception

Arguments FOR and AGAINST taking birth control pills

Any issue has its positive and negative sides. The same applies to protection against unwanted pregnancy. The arguments FOR using birth control pills are as follows :

• almost one hundred percent efficiency;
• Possibility of use in any age category;
• comfort during sexual intercourse;
• stabilization of hormonal balance in a woman’s body.

However, there are also arguments AGAINST the use of birth control pills:

• if there are contraindications or side effects, taking pills is prohibited;
• complications are possible after taking it, including the occurrence of cancer;
• pills remove some vitamins from the body;
• risk of glaucoma;
• risk of genital diseases;
• risk of hormonal imbalance, weight and mood changes.

If we weigh the pros and cons, expert advice and women’s opinions, it is worth noting that taking birth control pills on a regular basis is recommended only after childbirth . Since in this case, possible negative effects on the female body and future pregnancy are excluded.

According to doctors and psychotherapists, termination of pregnancy is a serious step that a woman should take only in extreme circumstances.

It is easier to prevent unwanted fertilization of an egg by creating unacceptable conditions for sperm inside the vagina than to regularly take birth control pills with a possible risk of deteriorating women's health.

And of course, regardless of age and health status, every representative of the fair half of humanity should definitely consult a doctor before taking any medications, even if they are said to be safe.

This video will tell you about the dangers of birth control pills:

The following video will tell you about oral tablets and the rules for taking them:

You can learn about the effect of birth control pills from this video:

In the life of every woman, for one reason or another, there comes a period of contraception when it is necessary to use contraceptive drugs. And it is at this moment that questions arise: which one, why, why, etc. We will try to thoroughly answer all the exciting and interesting questions about contraceptives, and also offer a rating of the best birth control pills.

Each woman’s body is unique and therefore this or that remedy may be suitable for one, but become ineffective for another. It is better to trust your gynecologist to choose a contraceptive drug to avoid unwanted side effects.

Brief summary of the rating:

Reviews

I started taking oral contraceptives at the age of 18. The older sister advised me to visit a gynecologist. The doctor turned out to be highly qualified. He gave detailed recommendations and forbade them to be violated. There were no pregnancies, no problems with weight or hormonal imbalance.

Olga, 19 years old (Kursk)

A friend used a contraceptive patch. She advised me too. She said it was very convenient. You just need to stick it on and forget about it for a whole week. The result was excellent, there were no side effects, but only the strip from friction with clothing quickly became dirty and began to look ugly.

Nina, 17 years old (Sochi)

I took hormonal pills without a doctor's recommendation. Later I realized that I did it in vain. First, the menstrual cycle began to be disrupted, then menstruation disappeared altogether, and later uterine bleeding began. I went to the gynecologist with severe pain. The doctor said that the contraceptive effect of the pills was insufficient and that they were not suitable for me at all. Thanks doctor!

Veronica, 16 years old (Degtyarsk)

Each age has its own productive range of drugs.

Up to 20 years old.

The most crucial period. The choice of contraception before the age of 20 should be taken very seriously, since the wrong choice can negatively affect the further development of the body. It is not recommended to take the drugs for girls whose height is below 160 cm, who do not have regular sex life, as well as for those girls who had their first menstruation earlier than 2 years ago. As a rule, these are drugs containing a minimum amount of estrogens - low-dose or micro-dose, for example:

20-30 years

In this age category, the female body is already fully formed. The use of high-dose contraception is recommended. Low-dose products are recommended for use by girls with high progesterone levels.

Over 30

For those women who have already had experience of childbearing, low-dose drugs will be optimal; it is also recommended to use single-phase drugs at this point.

Over 35

Since at this age, the level of hormones decreases, hormonal imbalances appear more often, and also at this age, most representatives of the fair sex do not plan to give birth and therefore microdosed products or mini-pills should be used during this period.

Over 40

Contraception for women over 40 years of age is necessary. Since in this age category there is a risk of fetal abnormalities, as well as other complications. In particular, single-component drugs are used, which provide maximum protection, although they have some side effects.

Features of choice

Many representatives of the fairer sex do not know what criteria are used to determine effective non-hormonal contraceptives for women. The cost of the drug does not always indicate quality, so this is not the criterion by which a protective agent is selected. Numerous studies have shown that suppositories are recommended for women who complain of vaginal dryness. The use of this type of contraception does not require additional purchase of lubricant.

Unpleasant manifestations from using contraception are also possible. For example, when the capsule dissolves, a foam-like substance is released and a hissing sound is heard. The use of even the best drugs does not guarantee the absence of burning, irritation and itching. Negative effects can occur in both the woman and her man.

Every body is individual, so the selection of non-hormonal contraceptives is carried out by a doctor.

Contraceptives are hormonal and non-hormonal. What does this mean?

Non-hormonal products are intended for insertion into the vagina. This type of protection against unwanted conception is very safe, since the pills without hormones also have bactericidal properties, protecting the surface of the uterus from infections.

Hormonal contraceptives They are usually called OK (oral contraceptives), they have the maximum degree of reliability. It should be noted that Oki not only protects against unwanted conception, but also increases them in case of a lack of female hormones and has an antiandrogenic effect.

Hormonal contraceptives are divided into 2 groups:

Combined (COC) and mini-pills.

COCs contain 2 types of hormones: progesterone, which plays a major role in the ovulation process, and a synthetic analogue of estrogen. COCs come in low-dose, micro-dose and high-dose.

Mini-pills are a type of combined oral contraceptives containing minimal doses of the hormone (minimal pills).

Absolutely all contraceptives have contraindications; we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the possible side effects when using hormonal drugs:

• Swelling of the mammary glands;
• Headache;
• Dizziness;
• Decreased appetite;
• Nausea;
• Swelling of the legs;
• Reduced pressure;
• Skin rash.

Precautionary measures: what a teenager needs to know

A gynecologist should select a COC after a visual examination of the girl and based on test results. Usually, blood donation is prescribed and an ultrasound (ultrasound) examination of the pelvic organs is performed. An acceptable remedy will be prescribed after identifying contraindications.

Among them:

• liver dysfunction;
• diabetes;
• obesity;
• pathologies of the heart and blood vessels;
• smoking.

The prescribed remedy will have a positive effect only if you follow the doctor’s recommendations. There is no reason to worry about vomiting, nausea and mild bleeding. At the beginning of treatment, dizziness and engorgement of the mammary glands may occur. After the adaptation period is completed, the symptoms will disappear on their own. There is no need to stop taking the medication.

Sometimes weight gain is observed. If you have a tendency to be overweight, you should immediately stick to a low-calorie diet.

Rating of the best birth control pills

Yarina

Low-dose OK-and with antiandrogenic effect. The tablets must be taken for 3 weeks in a row, there are 21 of them in the package, the tablets must be used in a timely manner. The main components of the drug that suppress ovulation are ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone. Women who use oral combined contraceptives experience a number of positive changes in the body: the menstrual cycle is normalized, the intensity of bleeding during menstruation decreases.

• Improving the condition of the skin of the face and head;
• Regular menstrual cycle;
• Significantly reduces menstrual pain;
• Affordable price;
• Does not increase body weight.

Silest

A combined oral contraceptive containing a high level of hormones, therefore Silest is contraindicated for use in adolescence. The drug is well tolerated. There are 21 tablets in the package, and they need to be taken for 3 weeks. The drug normalizes hormonal levels and ensures a painless menstrual cycle.

• Affordable price;
• Good tolerance;
• Convenient instructions for use;
• Eliminates acne;
• Has a beneficial effect on facial skin;
• Treatment of mild acne.

• Can't be found everywhere;
• Possible bleeding;
• Reduces libido.

Marvelon

A combined contraceptive has a reduced amount of active ingredients and is therefore an excellent option for women over 35. It mainly contains estrogen and progestogen. Marvelon also balances the volume of discharge and eliminates pain during menstruation. The effectiveness of this drug varies around 80%. When using the medicine, you should be examined not only by a gynecologist, but also by a hematologist and a vascular surgeon, since there is a risk of thrombosis.

• Affordable price;
• Increases libido;
• Detailed instructions for use;
• Normalizes the menstrual cycle;
• Does not affect weight gain;
• Effectively normalizes hormonal levels.

• Thickens the blood;
• The breasts become hypersensitive;
• Diarrhea;
• Has many contraindications;
• Nausea;
• Partially causes pimples.

Silhouette

The menopausal drug Siluet is an effective contraception; in addition, it has an additional pharmacological effect and treats moderate-to-mild acne. The active ingredients of the tablets that protect against unwanted conception are dienogest and ethinyl estradiol, excipients are corn starch, talc, lactose monohydrate, etc. Before use, you should consult your gynecologist.

• Restoring a regular cycle;
• Affordable price;
• Elimination of pain during menstruation;
• Does not affect weight gain;
• No heavy discharge.

• Nausea;
• Has many contraindications;
• Chest hurts.

Triquilar

An oral contraceptive, characterized by a large dosage of hormones - levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. The package contains 3 types of tablets - Triquilar 5, Triquilar 6, Triquilar 10, they differ in the amount of progestin and estrogen content. The package contains 21 tablets and is recommended for women under 30 years of age. The drug is most effective, but it has many unpleasant side effects.

• The most effective contraception;
• Affordable price;
• Reliability;
• Eliminates menstrual pain;
• Convenient instructions with a calendar;
• Positive consumer reviews.

• Side effects;
• Migraine;
• Has many contraindications;
• Fast weight gain.

Janine

An oral combined contraceptive whose active ingredients are ethinyl estradiol and dienogest. Among modern birth control pills, Janine is one of the best, reliable and safe that can be taken for a long period. The effect of contraception occurs through 3 complementary mechanisms: suppression of ovulation, changes in the properties of cervical secretions and changes in the endometrium, making the process of fertilization of the egg impossible.

• Convenient instructions;
• Reliable contraceptive;
• Safety;
• Improves the condition of facial skin;
• Hair does not become greasy;
• Does not cause weight gain;

Lactinet

Tablets from the Hungarian manufacturer Lactinet belong to the mini-pill category and are ideal for adult women. A huge advantage of the drug is that it is prescribed to women who smoke. Mini-pills are also prescribed to girls with an active menstrual cycle during lactation. The tablets are very effective and cause virtually no side effects. Lactinet does not affect weight gain. There are 28 tablets in a package.

• Can be used by nursing mothers;
• Minimal risk of vascular disorders;
• Optimal for women with obesity or diabetes;
• Prevents weight gain;
• Safety;
• Detailed instructions;
• Fast recovery for conception.

• Nausea;
• Has many contraindications;
• Possibility of bleeding;
• Causes depression.

Claira

An effective new generation COC, which is dominated by valerate estradiol, the closest analogue of natural female hormones. Progestin has also been replaced by a modern analogue, dienogest. Depending on the days of the cycle, the tablets have a certain composition. Unlike traditional COCs, the product has a gentler effect on the female body. These tablets are also used to treat symptoms of menopause.

• A modern drug using the latest technologies;
• Detailed description of the rules of use;
• Reliable protection;
• Improves facial condition;
• Safety;
• Ideally restores the cycle;
• Stable emotional state;
• Painless periods;
• Does not contribute to weight gain.

Jess

By far the best oral contraceptive pills. Time-tested German quality, this combined contraceptive with an improved formula ensures complete suppression of ovulation.

It is also worth paying tribute to the manufacturer for the thoughtful, compact and thoroughly described instructions for use on the packaging. Unlike its analogues, this drug has the least effect on weight gain and causes mastopathy and swelling. There are 28 tablets in a package. The drug is also suitable for the treatment of severe premenstrual syndrome. Suitable for women and girls.

• Reliable protection against unwanted conception;
• Elimination of menstrual pain;
• Detailed instructions;
• Noticeable improvement in skin;
• Does not cause swelling;
• Can be used to treat acne;
• Minimum side effects;
• Effectively normalizes hormonal levels;
• Positive consumer reviews;
• Does not affect weight gain.

• Price;
• Reduces libido;
• Partially addictive.

Side effects

If anti-conception pills had no side effects, they could be called the ideal contraceptive method. However, side symptoms often occur, especially if the drugs were not selected together with a doctor. When taking COCs, you may experience:

• migraine-type headaches;
• nausea and vomiting;
• swelling caused by fluid retention in the body;
• bloating;
• excessive breast sensitivity;
• vaginal discharge;
• feeling irritated and tired.

Some drugs (even with trace amounts of hormones) can provoke allergic reactions. If there are signs of an allergy, you should stop taking the pills.

Sometimes birth control pills cause symptoms that require immediate medical attention. When should you not postpone a visit to the doctor? The following manifestations should alert you:

• If you feel unwell, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible

  headache is severe and does not go away;

• hearing, vision or smell are suddenly impaired;
• limbs hurt;
• there is a feeling of tightness in the chest;
• a cough of unknown etiology occurs;
• a rash or itchy patches appear;
• a sharp rise in pressure.

Only a doctor can reliably determine whether there is a relationship between the alarm signals that the body gives and the use of contraceptives. The gynecologist will tell you whether it is possible for a nulliparous girl to continue taking the drugs or whether it is better to switch to another protective method.

Common Myths

There are many cases where girls who want to minimize the possibility of getting pregnant do not consider using birth control pills. This happens because there are many myths surrounding these pills. The most popular among them are the following:

1. Long-term use of pills is dangerous. This is not the case if the product was chosen correctly. There is no need to take breaks.
2. Birth control pills cause cancer. COCs reduce the likelihood of the formation of cancerous tumors, so girls who protect themselves using these means are much less likely to be diagnosed with uterine or ovarian cancer.

3. Taking birth control pills may cause problems with conceiving in the future. If the girl had a regular cycle before taking the pills, then after stopping COCs, reproductive function will be restored very quickly.

4. Contraceptives cause heart problems. This can only happen to girls who smoke. Combined products increase the harmful effects of nicotine on the body. But problems such as poor blood clotting and blood clots are caused by nicotine, not pills.
5. The pills affect growth. It is not true. That is why they can be taken by teenagers. Growth slows down solely for natural reasons.
6. They get better on birth control. There are cases when a girl gains several extra pounds while taking combined medications. But this does not apply to side effects, since this is caused by the characteristics of the body. This can happen due to the fact that the remedy was chosen incorrectly, so you should definitely contact a gynecologist and not do it on your own. You should also visit him if your weight has increased significantly to find out the reason for this reaction of the body.

When is the best time to stop taking it?

Contraceptives for girls must be stopped in several cases:

• If obvious side effects appear, and this is not just a daub. Some girls even faint because the hormones are having the wrong effect.
• If there is bleeding. And although many attribute it to side effects from taking it, sometimes it can be caused by miscarriage if the drug is not taken correctly. So, for example, if you miss one pill and have unprotected sexual intercourse that day, the likelihood of getting pregnant increases significantly.
• Young girls need to remember that their health is in their hands. And under no circumstances should you follow men’s lead and take birth control pills just because it’s inconvenient to use a condom. A preliminary consultation with a gynecologist is required!

Types of contraceptives

Birth control pills today come in several types, each of which differs not only in the principle of action, but also in the amount of a particular hormone it contains. So, there are:

• Hormonal.
• Non-hormonal.

Hormonal pills, in turn, are divided into:

• Oral contraceptives.
• Mini-drinks.

Local contraceptives

In addition to oral contraceptives, there are also local contraceptives. They do not affect the organs themselves in any way, but only kill sperm. This includes candles. Contraceptives of this type are not highly effective because they will not help if after use the girl went to the toilet or shower.

In addition, their validity period is relatively short. They help great for about an hour, but they certainly won’t help if the couple has had several sexual intercourses.

And yet, most young girls prefer to buy candles. Contraceptives of this kind are more of an addition to a condom, so you shouldn’t rely too much on them.

Contraindications for use

An oral contraceptive is not a unique means of contraception that can be used by absolutely all women. There are a number of contraindications, in the presence of which you should stop taking the drug in favor of another method of protection against unwanted pregnancy. Or, talk to your doctor and choose the safest option for hormonal pills.

Relative contraindications include:

• high degree of obesity;
• lactation period;
• epilepsy;
• sickle anemia;
• presence of diabetes mellitus;
• smoking (if the woman is over 35 years old);
• the presence of diseases of the genital tract (thrush, vaginosis, etc.).

The use of hormonal drugs during pregnancy, liver failure, hemorrhagic stroke, as well as suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasms (liver adenoma, uterine or breast cancer, and so on) is strictly prohibited.

Types of contraceptives

What should good contraceptive pills be like, what are the requirements for modern contraceptives? Contraceptives must be reliable, convenient, not harmful to a woman’s health, and not affect her reproductive functions.

Modern high-quality birth control pills have all these properties. However, there is not a single pill that would suit absolutely any woman. After all, every woman’s body is unique, everyone has a different age, different body type, different levels of hormones, some individual characteristics of the reproductive system, different experiences of childbirth. For some, the picture is complicated by existing diseases. Therefore, only a qualified gynecologist who has examined the woman and familiarized herself with her tests can select high-quality oral contraceptives. This is especially true for women who are starting to take oral contraceptives for the first time.

What are the main parameters by which contraceptives differ? First of all, contraceptives are divided into non-hormonal and hormonal. Non-hormonal contraceptives are not intended for oral administration, but for insertion into the vagina.

Their mechanism of action is based on the fact that they contain substances that kill sperm, as well as substances that stimulate the production of intrauterine mucus, which prevents the movement of sperm. The advantage of such contraceptives is that they have a minimum of side effects and are suitable for women who do not have regular sex life. In addition, hormone-free tablets have bactericidal properties and protect the surface of the uterus from infections. We can say that these are the safest female contraceptives.

The disadvantage of these products is that they must be inserted into the vagina immediately before sexual intercourse, which is not always convenient. First of all, because it requires planning sexual intercourse. The reliability of such contraceptives is high, but far from one hundred percent.

Pay special attention!

Oral contraceptives in the form of hormonal tablets should be prescribed and taken with extreme caution in the presence of the following diseases and characteristics of the body:

• prolonged immobility;
• preparation for surgery or the rehabilitation period after it;
• presence of bleeding from the genitals;
• thrombosis, thromboembolism;
• high blood pressure;
• problems with cerebral vessels;
• the presence of malignant tumors.

Folk hormonal remedies

In some cases, a herbal preparation can be added to the mixtures. Doctor-approved hormonal herbal remedies help fight the existing problem.

• The recipe for a hormonal infusion of sage (promotes the release of steroids) and goose cinquefoil (progestogen) is quite simple: brew a tablespoon of the herb in a glass of boiling water, let it brew for 20 minutes and drink a third of the glass in the morning before meals. They drink the decoction for three months, and then take a month’s break.
• Another recipe based on oregano, which regulates the female background. To prepare a decoction, pour 2 tablespoons of the herb into a glass of boiling water, leave for 15-20 minutes and consume twice a day before meals.

Selection principle

Before we move on to what contraceptives are best for girls, it is necessary to take a closer look at the topic of choice. In order for the drugs to be selected correctly, it is necessary:

• Visit a gynecologist and tell him about your intention.
• Take a smear for oncocytology, because if there is the slightest deviation, the pills are contraindicated.
• Visit a mammologist so that he, in turn, examines the breasts, especially if there is bad heredity.
• Take a blood test.
• Do an ultrasound, preferably on the fifth or seventh day of the cycle.

After all the procedures have been completed, the doctor will be able to accurately select the right drug.

The best oral contraceptives for menopause

The best oral contraceptives for women during menopause are those with a high content of the estrogen component; preference should also be given to triphasic ones. They will help relieve the symptoms of menopause and even “slow down” the decline of the body. The list of popular ones is as follows:

• Femoston . It has different release dosages. It is prescribed before the onset of persistent menopause or no later than 3-4 years after the last menstruation.
• Klyra . A three-phase drug that contains dienogest as a gestagen component, therefore it is suitable for women with heavy menstruation and manifestations of endometriosis.
• Midiana (Yarina) . It is preferable to use in women under 50 years of age with the onset of cycle changes and disturbing manifestations of PMS.

Prices for drugs can vary significantly depending on the region of sale and the category of pharmacy. Femoston - from 1100 rubles, Klayra - from 1000 rubles, Midiana - from 600 rubles, Yarina - from 1060 rubles.

Basic properties of contraceptives in tablets for women

The principle of operation of all oral contraceptives in tablets for women is the same: regular use leads to a decrease in the production of the hormones FSH and LH at the level of the pituitary gland, which puts the ovaries into a state of “hibernation” - their own hormones are not produced, and those that do arrive imitate the action of their own, but do not lead to the same physiological reactions.

Additional contraceptive effect is manifested in the following:

• The cervical secretion becomes more viscous, which prevents sperm from penetrating into the uterine cavity.
• The endometrium becomes “thin”. This prevents implantation of the fertilized egg even if conception has occurred.

Hormonal drugs for women after 40 years

Many women in the modern world, upon reaching this age, prefer to use hormonal therapy.

The main indication for use will be the prevention of pregnancy. Since at this age it can cause serious concern from both the woman and the fetus.

After 40 years, the risk of developing a child with chromosomal abnormalities increases several times.

In addition, hormonal drugs also have such positive effects as reducing the possibility of developing an oncological process both in the uterus and ovaries, as well as coping with the severity of some chronic pathologies.

At this age, preference should be given to hormonal drugs that contain either only progesterone or low dosage estrogen in combination with progesterone.

Preference should be given to drugs with low dosages of hormones, as they will help reduce the risk of developing hyperplastic processes in endometrial tissue, which in some cases leads to the development of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Among the drugs are Jess or Jess Plus, Marvelon, Janine and Diane-35. But special attention should be paid to the correct selection of funds, since there is a high risk of complications during this period. In some cases, this can prevent the risk of early menopause.

Diane-35 Jess Plus Jess

Janine

Efficiency

Most representatives of the fair half of humanity are interested in the question of how effective contraceptives are.

Contraceptives for girls are a subject of debate among many doctors, because “there are so many opinions”, and some follow scientific news and try to take advantage of medical advances, while others dissuade girls from taking them, arguing at the moment the possible development of complications and a further decrease in the ability to give birth child.

And although researchers have created a special list of drugs, each girl individually and with her doctor selects the best contraceptives for her.

And again about the menstrual cycle

We already talked about the female reproductive system and the menstrual cycle.

Before we begin to analyze hormonal contraceptives, I will remind you of a story that happens in a woman’s body every month.

The hypothalamus and pituitary gland control the menstrual cycle.

It all starts with the hypothalamus instructing the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone into the blood.

Under his strict guidance, several follicles with eggs inside begin to grow and mature in the ovaries, synthesizing estrogens, which are necessary for their maturation. After some time, one of the follicles breaks forward in its development, while the others resolve.

Meanwhile, in the uterus, under the influence of estrogens, the preparation of a “pillow” for the fertilized egg begins, so that it feels warm, cozy and well-fed there. The uterine mucosa thickens.

On average, after 2 weeks from the beginning of the cycle, the level of estrogen reaches its maximum, and the egg reaches its “coming of age.” The “signal signal” for its exit from its native nest is the release of luteinizing hormone by the pituitary gland (in response to an increase in estrogen levels). The follicle bursts, the egg is released (this is called “ovulation”), enters the fallopian tube and makes its way into the uterine cavity.

And in place of the burst follicle, a corpus luteum is formed, which produces progesterone.

Progesterone is enthusiastically involved in the process of preparing the uterus to welcome a fertilized egg. It loosens the endometrium, one might say, “fluffs the feather bed” for newlyweds (if a fateful meeting takes place), reduces the tone of the uterus to maintain pregnancy, changes the properties of cervical mucus to prevent infection, and prepares the mammary glands for a possible pregnancy.

If fertilization does not occur, the level of progesterone drops, and the overgrown functional layer of the endometrium is rejected as unnecessary. This is menstruation.

The maximum level of estrogen occurs during the period of ovulation, and progesterone - approximately on the 22-23rd day of the cycle.

The most popular hormonal pills and their uses

How many manufacturers produce oral contraceptives? The list can be very long, so as an example, let’s remember just a few products that are most popular among women today.

These include the following drugs: “Novinet”, “Yarina”, “Janine”, “Marvelon”, “Jess”, “Diane-35”, “Logest”, “Regulon”, “Chloe”, “Lindinet-20” , “Klayra”, “Median”, “Sileste”.

Each product comes with instructions that indicate the exact dose and frequency of taking the product. Most often, you need to take one tablet daily. The only exceptions are the days of menstruation, during which hormonal drugs are contraindicated.

Benefits of the mini-pill

Mini-pills appeared on the market relatively recently and have not yet gained popularity, but they have a number of advantages compared to conventional COCs:

• They do not cause nausea, headaches or migraines.
• They can be used by women with arterial hypertension, since the tablets do not provoke a rise in blood pressure.
• They can be taken during lactation.
• Mini-pills have a lower risk of thrombosis and similar complications from the cardiovascular system.
• Does not reduce libido.
• They do not affect the psycho-emotional state of a woman.
• Since mini-pills do not have a significant effect on the rheological properties of the blood, they can be taken even on the eve of surgical interventions.