Oral contraceptives are effective and reversible methods of hormonal contraception that is widely used in different parts of the world today. They are generally safe but it is important to note that they most be used correctly. In addition there are so many misconceptions around the use of oral contraceptives and this can also affect patient compliant as well as uptake, especially for individuals looking to buy the contraceptive pill for the first time. This is why it is important to understand the mechanism, as well as address some of the misconceptions while providing evidence based understanding. Continue reading to learn more.
Mechanism of Action
The main mechanism of action of oral contraceptive is to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation. It is worth noting that combined hormonal contraceptives are more effective than progestin only options. Here’s more break down of the mechanism of action of oral contraceptives:
- Ovulation Suppression: Progestin and synthetic estrogen both suppress the release of luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone from the pituitary gland and this prevents the surge that is needed for the release of eggs.
- Cervical Mucus Thickening:Progestin component also helps in increasing the viscosity of the cervical mucous and this makes it difficult for the sperm to move to the uterus.
- Endometrial Thinning:Oral contraceptives thins the uterus and this also makes it less receptive to implantation.
- Fertility Returns: The fertility usually returns immediately after the oral contraceptive is discontinued and studies show that up to 97% of users return to their usually menses within 90 days, highlighting the importance of proper follow-up care and ongoing wellness support during the transition period.
Common Misconception and Evidence Based Facts
As mentioned earlier there are currently so many misconceptions around the use of contraceptives and here’s a breakdown of these misconceptions and evidence based facts:
Misconception: The pill causes infertility
Fact: Only long term use of the pill can cause infertility as well as long term weigh gain.
Misconception: The pill causes significant weight gain
Fact: There are no evidence that show that there is a link between oral contraceptives and significant long term weight gain.
Misconception: You need to take detox breaks
Fact: There is no health benefit of taking detox breaks from the pill. Studies also show that taking these breaks can increase the risk of unwanted side effects and unwanted pregnancy.
Misconception: The pill protects against STIs
Fact: Oral contraceptives do not offer any form of protection against sexually transmitted infections. The recommended option to increase safety against STIs is to use condom in addition to the pill.
Misconception: The pill causes cancer
Fact: Oral contraceptives offer protection against endometrial and ovarian cancers. However there is an increase in breast cancer risk but this decreases aft stopping and the overall net effect is usually considered to be a health benefit in most cases.
Clinical Context and Safety
The key things to note is that oral contraceptives are generally safe for most healthy women and this includes adolescent and women older than 40 years. In addition the use of oral contraceptive should be carefully considered or completely avoided in smokers that are older than 35 or those that have a history of blood clots as well as women with some cardiovascular conditions. Apart from preventing pregnancy it is important to note that oral contraceptives, commonly known as birth control pills, are used in managing endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, acne and polycystic ovary syndrome. The effectiveness of oral contraceptives is 99% and this effectiveness is only affected by missed pills.
It is important to always consult with a health professional before taking oral contraceptives to ensure that you are properly assessed and also guarantee that you get the full benefits of oral contraceptives. However, if you want to use these pills without consulting with a medical practitioner you might want to visit Jardines Contraception.