What are the dangers of hormonal drugs. What are progestogen oral contraceptives? Do hormonal contraceptives affect the thyroid gland?

Medicines, which include natural or artificial hormones, have to be taken for various reasons, and women are more likely to take this. We drink them when we are afraid of getting pregnant or vice versa, we really want to conceive a child, and hormones also help to cope with menopause, acne and even cancer. However, many ladies are still afraid of this terrible word, depriving themselves of many opportunities. When are hormonal pills appropriate? Let's look at the important points.

The effect of hormonal pills

The vast majority of the processes occurring in the body in one way or another involve hormones produced by the glands and are responsible both for metabolism in general and for many individual functions, such as growth, reproduction, and the processing of substances. The human body constantly monitors the presence of hormones in the blood and, if they are deficient, tries to increase production, which means a change in the function of the gland. With the help of hormonal pills, you can restore the balance in the systems.

Contraceptive drugs have an effect on the body as a whole. Long-term use of such pills reduces the risk of cancer by about 50 percent. In addition, hormones help to make the cycle in the female body more regular, and the periods themselves often become less unpleasant. Drugs also help in eliminating acne, which is often a sign of hormonal imbalance.

Indications and contraindications

Hormones are prescribed in different situations, but the main points are:

1. Endocrine diseases.
2. Deficiency in the production of hormones by the body (drugs are used for stimulating effects to restore the previous hormonal balance, often this is done to normalize the menstrual cycle in the body and return the opportunity to conceive a child).
3. Problems with the female reproductive system (hormonal substances normalize the menstrual cycle, stop dysfunctional bleeding from the uterus, promote ovulation, bring the body to the hormonal balance required for conception).
4. Mastopathy or fibroids (to reduce the rate of cell division in the mammary glands and uterus).
5. Contraception.
6. Acne, pimples.
7. Menopause (to restore balance in the body and prevent the occurrence of arterial hypertension, osteoporosis and other problems).

General contraindications are also available, here they are:

1. Smoking.
2. Increased blood clotting.
3. Cardiovascular diseases.
4. Excess weight.
5. Liver and kidney failure.
6. Migraines with focal neurological symptoms.
7. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
8. Increased risk of thrombosis.
9. Hormone dependent diseases.
10. Oncology.
11. Vaginal bleeding.
12. Diabetes.
13. Pancreatitis.

Side effects

Hormones can cause side effects in the body that include unwanted hair growth, skin problems, and more. When taking birth control, they can range from unpleasant discharge and swelling of the mammary glands to allergic reactions, you can still gain weight dramatically. Stopping the drug immediately often does not have the desired effect, since the effect of hormones can be prolonged, it will take the body some time to return to normal.

Types of hormonal pills

Drugs are divided into groups of hormones:

• glands of the adrenal cortex, which include glucocorticosteroids, used to combat allergies and inflammation, and also as painkillers.
• thyroid gland are used if it produces them in small quantities or, conversely, too much.
• sexual, which include androgens, estrogens, gestagens.
• anabolic drugs.
• pituitary, such as oxytocin and human chorionic gonadotropin.
• pancreas, one of which is insulin.

The use of hormonal drugs

Hormonal preparations are used in cases where the human body is not able to independently provide itself with the necessary amount of hormones. Such therapy is called substitution therapy, since the patient is forced to resort to it for a long time, which can often be extended to all the remaining years. Medicines containing glucocorticoids are used to combat allergies.

Contraceptive

Contraceptives are one of the surest ways to avoid unwanted pregnancy. The method of their action is the influence of female hormones on the reproductive system in order to prevent ovulation and conception. The choice of the drug should be carried out by a gynecologist, when using an incorrectly selected contraceptive, many health problems may occur, up to liver diseases and vein thrombosis. Let's look at which birth control pills are the most popular:

• "Diana 35". This is an oral contraceptive, characterized by a low content of hormones. In addition to direct contraception, it is used to treat seborrhea, problems with high levels of male hormones in the female body, acne and polycystic ovary syndrome. The drug affects ovulation, protecting against unwanted pregnancy. After stopping the hormonal agent, the girl can become pregnant again.
• Lindinet 20. A modern means of the latest generation of contraceptives. These pills contain completely insignificant hormonal doses, which negates the side effects. Already with a three-month intake of the drug, the normalization of the cycle is noted, menstruation becomes less unpleasant. Reduces the likelihood of endometriosis, cancer of the uterus or ovaries, mastopathy.
• "Jess". Birth control pills are an effective tool in the fight against acne, oily skin, as it counteracts male sex hormones. Often, gynecologists prescribe Jess contraceptive pills to girls from the age of 14 in order to combat acne and eliminate especially painful menstruation. A feature of the hormonal drug is that it cannot affect weight in any way.
• "Regulon". The composition of this drug includes gestagen and ethinyl estradiol, which act jointly on the pituitary gland, hormones make cervical mucus denser and more difficult to ovulate, which prevents sperm from entering the uterus and fertilization.
• "Janine". Tablets, which are monophasic combined contraceptives, contain gestagen and ethinylestradiol, which thicken the cervical mucus, affect ovulation, preventing spermatozoa from fertilizing.
• "Midian". It is an oral contraceptive based on drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, which affect the endometrium. Suppresses ovulation and prevents the fertilization of the egg.

Estrogens

The level of estrogen hormones is significantly higher in women. There are three types:

• estrone produced during menopause;
• estradiol, produced by all women of reproductive age;
• estriol produced by the placenta during pregnancy.

But sometimes the level of estrogen does not correspond to the norm, this happens due to bleeding, problems with bearing a child, infertility, the presence of tumors in the reproductive system and breasts. Estrogens include:

• "Dermestril". Contains estradiol and is used in menopause, eliminating hot flashes, postmenopausal osteoporosis, urogenital atrophy, sleep and mood problems.
• "Divigel". It has estradiol as the active substance. This drug is distinguished by its favorable effect on the development of specific female organs, such as the fallopian tubes, ducts of the mammary glands. It has a positive effect on the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, normalizes menstruation. In large doses, the hormone is able to reduce lactation, produce endometrial hyperplasia.

Thyroid gland

Levothyroxine sodium and triiodothyronine are thyroid hormones. If their level in the body decreases, this leads to such consequences as atherosclerosis, cognitive decline, weight gain, anemia. In the absence of diagnosis, treatment, problems with the thyroid gland can occur even in young people and result in dysfunction of other organs, apathy, loss of strength.

Thyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone. After passing through the kidneys and liver, it affects the growth, development of tissues in the body, as well as metabolism in general. Thyroxine affects the metabolism of fats and proteins, increases oxygen consumption, improves the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. At higher doses and long-term use, it affects the work of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland.

How to drink hormonal pills

If the doctor has decided to prescribe hormones, do not argue, but listen. He will prescribe a course of examinations to make sure that the hormonal drug can be drunk and there will be no harm to the body, and then determine the dosage. If you are going to drink birth control, then consult a gynecologist. After making an analysis for hormones and finding out what is missing, the doctor will be able to prescribe a remedy. The gynecologist also examines the breast for the presence of oncology, since hormonal preparations for tumors are not prescribed.

How to take contraceptives? In a certain order, once a day, to facilitate the blister, the days of the week are indicated, it will be difficult to make a mistake, miss a dose. The first tablet should be taken on the 1st day of menstruation or on the 5th, if it was not possible earlier. Later, this should not be done, because there will be a risk of becoming pregnant. Do not forget and skip the daily intake. One blister is designed for a month, there are tablets with the expectation of continuous intake, there are for 21 days (with a break of a week).

For breast augmentation

It is considered undeniable that the shape and size of the female mammary glands depend on genetic factors. At the same time, we should not forget that the female hormone estrogen affects the female breast. Some hormonal pills affect its production, resulting in changes in size. This effect is exerted by prolactin, which acts on estrogen receptors in the breast, and progesterone, which promotes the growth of breast tissue.

Taking hormonal drugs requires a careful approach, only the doctor will tell you what dosage you need. So, there are hormones that you can drink 4 times a day with an interval of 4 hours. It is worth noting that it will not be superfluous to use a special cream to increase the bust, in addition, taking such drugs requires careful attention to the diet. In order not to lead to the production of testosterone, you should forget about sweet, starchy foods, reduce protein intake.

For pregnancy

To determine the hormones that can help in the conception of a child, you will have to take urine and blood tests that will allow you to understand the state of the body. The ovaries produce estradiol, which is involved in the preparation of the uterus for conception, as well as testosterone, progesterone, a follicle-stimulating hormone responsible for eggs. Male testosterone, with its elevated level in the female body, makes it difficult to conceive, interfering with the normal course of pregnancy.

Progesterone, sometimes called the maternal hormone, is essential for the development of a baby in the womb. Conception is due to the normal function of the thyroid gland and pituitary gland. The latter is responsible for prolactin, which stimulates lactation and ovulation, and for luteotropin, which controls the production of estrogen in the female body. If conception does not occur for a long time, women are sometimes prescribed Femoston: it contains estradiol and dydrogesterone, which normalize and maintain the required hormonal level. This drug is a mixture of estrogen and progesterone.

For weight gain

Taking hormonal drugs can lead to weight gain. This is used by athletes who want to build muscle by using steroids, which include corticosteroids and sex hormones. In Russia, they are banned, which forced them to look for other ways, one of which turned out to be somatostatin, a growth hormone that can increase muscle mass.

However, you should be careful: hormones for weight gain should not be used without medical supervision. The doctor prescribes them to people with anorexia, emaciated, excessively thin. The drug "Duphaston" is very common: it was created for ladies who want to get pregnant, but for those who want to gain weight, it fits perfectly. Hormonal agents are prescribed after consulting an endocrinologist, he determines the dosage of the drug.

For acne

Hormone therapy is effective for acne. The use of preparations containing hormones will prevent excessive production of sebum. However, you need to be on the lookout, because they can lead to a deterioration in mood, weight gain and headaches as a side effect. At the end of the course, acne may return, and to prevent this from happening, it is necessary to simultaneously use antibacterial drugs, and preferably not antibiotics, but natural substances.

Subcutaneous fat is formed with the participation of androgens, which are most actively produced by the female body during menstruation. This leads to the appearance of acne on the skin on such days. It is possible to eliminate this phenomenon by means of hormonal tablets containing progesterone and estrogen, which will help the body maintain a balance of androgens. For this purpose, contraceptives, such as Jess, are often prescribed: they drink them in a course, one tablet a day.

What drugs to choose

It is not uncommon for women to base their decision on choosing one of the hormonal contraceptives based on advertisements or what their girlfriends say. Such a situation is unacceptable, because only a gynecologist, after all the necessary tests, examinations of the body, can recommend any of the remedies. If you decide to choose a hormonal drug on your own, then it may not only not have the desired effect, but harm your health, even death.

Video

In the plot of the TV show, the obstetrician-gynecologist will tell you how and at what moment hormonal contraceptives act on the body, why you should not be afraid to drink the drug. The doctor explains why contraceptives are good for acne, how they prevent uterine and ovarian cancer, and also explains the benefits of the intrauterine ring and IUD for the treatment of certain gynecological diseases, such as endometriosis.

Contraceptives for acne

This is a group of drugs that are used for hormone therapy. The effect of such drugs on the body has been studied well enough so that it does not cause concern.

Such a broad group as hormonal drugs includes the following categories of drugs:

• Contraceptives.
• Therapeutic (drugs whose action is aimed at curing a disease caused by a lack of a hormone).
• Regulatory (for example, to normalize the menstrual cycle).
• Maintenance (insulin for diabetics).

All drugs affect the body and women in different ways. It all depends on the general condition of the body, the presence of serious diseases and the state of the immune system.

Medications

This group is used for hormone therapy and is available in the form of tablets and ointments. Tablets treat serious diseases caused by abnormalities in the hormonal sphere, and ointments have a local effect.

In girls who lack the production of hormones, the skin suffers from cracks and wounds in the winter, as the synthesis of new cells is disrupted. To deal with such an annoyance. The doctor prescribes creams, ointments and lotions containing hormones. Usually corticosteroids are included in the ointment, which are absorbed into the blood after a few hours.

Such drugs can seriously affect the body. Therefore, it is important to maintain the dosage and, when prescribing, immediately determine the duration of the course, since one wrong step can lead to complications of existing problems.

Regulatory drugs

Due to the peculiarities of the lifestyle of a modern woman, deteriorating nutrition and a polluted environment, many of the fair sex are faced with menstrual irregularities. This can affect not only the sexual sphere of the body, but also the general condition of the body. Hormonal disorders can lead to the development of breast cancer, as well as infertility. The action of hormonal drugs can help solve problems.

However, before admission, it is necessary to conduct examinations and tests. First, a blood test is performed for certain substances. He will be able to identify either their excess. Such tests are quite expensive, but in order to solve problems, it is necessary to start treatment in a timely manner. After detecting a deficiency or excess of hormones, regulation of their content begins. For this, courses of injections or tablets are prescribed. Properly selected oral contraceptives will help normalize the cycle without harm to health.

Any remedy containing hormones requires scrupulousness in determining the dosage, since it is quite simple to cross the line of the required dose. For example, exceeding the norm can lead to hair loss, swelling and pain in the mammary glands.

Hormonal preparations can be made on the basis of hormones of natural origin or they are synthetically produced substances. With a course of hormonal therapy, it is aimed at normalizing the hormonal background and normalizing metabolic processes. Depending on the functional state of a particular gland, hormone therapy is conditionally divided into replacement, stimulating and blocking.

Negative effects of hormones

For the body of both men and women, the use of hormonal drugs can cause such unpleasant consequences as:

• osteoporosis and ulcers of the mucous membrane of the duodenum and the stomach itself when taking glucocorticoids;
• weight loss and cardiac arrhythmia when taking thyroid hormone preparations;
• too sharp a decrease in blood sugar when taking insulin.

The effect of hormonal ointments on the body

Preparations containing hormones for external use can vary greatly in the degree of impact on the body. Ointments and creams are considered the most powerful, gels and lotions contain lower concentrations. Hormonal ointments are used to treat skin diseases and allergic manifestations. Their action is aimed at eliminating the causes of inflammation and irritation on the skin.

However, if we compare ointments with tablets or injections, then their harm is minimal, since absorption into the blood occurs in small doses. In some cases, the use of ointments can lead to a decrease in the productivity of the adrenal glands, but after the end of the course of treatment, their functionality is restored on their own.

The effect of hormonal contraceptives on the body of a woman

Features of the influence of hormonal drugs on the human body are that many factors are perceived purely individually. The use of such drugs is not only an interference with natural physiological processes, but also an impact on the functioning of body systems during the day. Therefore, the decision to prescribe hormonal drugs can only be made by an experienced doctor based on the results of a comprehensive examination and analysis.

Hormonal contraceptives can be produced in various forms and dosages:

• combined;
• mini-drank;
• injections;
• plasters;
• subcutaneous implants;
• postcoidal drugs;
• hormone rings.

Combination preparations contain substances similar to female hormones produced by the ovaries. To be able to choose the optimal medicine, all groups of drugs can be monophasic, biphasic and triphasic. They differ in the proportions of hormones.

Knowing about the properties of gestagens and estrogens, certain mechanisms of action of oral contraceptives can be distinguished:

• decrease in the secretion of gonadotropic hormones due to the effects of progestogen;
• increased acidity of the vagina due to the influence of estrogens;
• increased viscosity of cervical mucus;
• in each instruction there is the phrase "implantation of the egg", which is a veiled abortive effect of drugs.

In the time that has passed since the appearance of the first oral contraceptives, the debate about the safety of the use of drugs does not subside, and research in this area continues.

What hormones are in contraceptives

Typically, hormonal contraceptives use progestogens, which are also called progestins and progestogens. These are hormones that are produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries, in small amounts by the adrenal cortex, and during pregnancy by the placenta. The main gestagen is progesterone, which helps prepare the uterus in a state favorable for the development of a fertilized egg.

Another component of oral contraceptives is. Estrogens are produced by the ovarian follicles and the adrenal cortex. Estrogens include three main hormones: estriol and estrogen. These hormones are needed in contraceptives to normalize the menstrual cycle, but not to protect against unwanted conception.

Side effects of hormonal drugs

Each drug has a number of side effects that can occur when a decision is made to immediately stop the drug.

The most frequently recorded cases of side effects of hormonal drugs:

• Hemolytic-uremic syndrome. It is manifested by such disorders as anemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure.
• Porphyria, which is a violation of the synthesis of hemoglobin.
• Hearing loss due to otosclerosis.

All manufacturers of hormonal drugs indicate thromboembolism as a side effect, which is extremely rare. This condition is a blockage of the vessel by a thrombus. If the side effects outweigh the benefits of the medication, it should be discontinued.

Side effects of oral contraceptives are:

• (lack of menstrual flow);
• headache;
• blurred vision;
• change in blood pressure;
• depression;
• weight gain;
• soreness in the mammary glands.

Studies on the side effects of oral contraceptives

In foreign countries, studies are constantly being conducted on the side effects of hormonal drugs on a woman's body, which revealed the following facts:

• Hormonal contraceptives are used by more than 100 million women in different countries.
• The number of deaths from venous and arterial diseases is fixed at 2 to 6 per million per year.
• The risk of venous thrombosis is important in younger women
• Arterial thrombosis is relevant for older women.
• Among female smokers taking OCs, the number of deaths is about 100 per million per year.

The effect of hormones on the male body

The male body is also seriously dependent on hormones. The male body also contains female hormones. Violation of the optimal balance of hormones leads to various diseases.

Either estrogen leads to decreased testosterone production. This can cause problems:

• in the cardiovascular system;
• with memory;
• age;
• decrease in immunity.

If the balance of hormones is disturbed, a course of hormone therapy is necessary, which will help to avoid further deterioration in health.

Progesterone has a calming effect on the male nervous system and helps men suffering from premature ejaculation to solve sexual problems.

The normal content of estrogens in the male body has a number of useful properties:

• maintaining optimal levels of "good cholesterol";
• pronounced muscle growth;
• regulation of the nervous system;
• libido improvement.

When noted:

• inhibition of testosterone production;
• body fat according to the female type;
• gynecomastia.
• Erectile dysfunction;
• decreased libido;
• depression.

Any of the symptoms is extremely unpleasant, so do not hesitate to visit the doctor. A competent specialist will be able to conduct a complete examination and prescribe a course of medications that will significantly improve the condition of the body.

Bibliography

1. Sudakov K.V., Normal Physiology. - M.: LLC "Medical Information Agency", 2006. - 920 p.;
2. Kolman Ya., Rem K. - G., Visual biochemistry // Hormones. Hormonal system. - 2000. - pp. 358-359, 368-375.
3. Berezov T.T., Korovkin B.F., Biological chemistry // Nomenclature and classification of hormones. - 1998. - pp. 250-251, 271-272.
4. Grebenshchikov Yu.B., Moshkovsky Yu.Sh., Bioorganic chemistry // Physical and chemical properties, structure and functional activity of insulin. - 1986. - p.296.
5. Orlov R. S., Normal physiology: textbook, 2nd ed., corrected. and additional - M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2010. - 832 p.;
6. Tepperman J., Tepperman H., Physiology of metabolism and the endocrine system. Introductory course. - Per. from English. - M.: Mir, 1989. - 656 p.; Physiology.

Hormonal contraceptives around the world are considered the most reliable in terms of protection against unwanted pregnancy. They are trusted by millions of women in civilized countries. They give the freedom to choose the time of birth of the desired child, emancipation in sexual relations, deliverance from certain diseases and suffering. Subject to the rules of use hormonal contraceptives provide, without a doubt, a high level of reliability. In the last decade, interest in this method of protection has also increased in our country, but passions about the benefits and harms, advantages and disadvantages in their use do not subside.

How contraceptive pills work

modern oral contraceptives may contain one or two hormones: progesterone and estrogen - then they are called combined, or only progesterone - the so-called mini-pills.

Combined contraceptives are divided into drugs:

• with microdoses of hormones;
• with low doses;
• medium dosed;
• with high doses of hormones.

Preparations "mini-drank" are considered the most sparing of all birth control pills.

How do birth control pills work?

Contraceptive pills consist of synthetic hormones, which are analogues of female sex hormones, which are produced in the body of a woman constantly during pregnancy. It is estrogen and progesterone that inhibit the production of other hormones that stimulate the maturation of the follicle, due to which ovulation occurs. Therefore, by administering small doses of estrogen and progesterone with the pill, it becomes possible to suppress or slow down ovulation (ovum maturation). On this principle, the mechanism of action of all combined hormonal agents is built.

The action of the "mini-drank" is based on the same principles, but the effective point here is the effect of the tablets on the structure of the uterine mucosa, and on the change in the viscosity of the secretion of the cervical canal. The thickening of the secret and the friability of the endometrium does not allow sperm to fertilize the egg, and the egg itself to gain a foothold in the uterus.

All these phenomena disappear together with the termination of reception of contraceptives. Reproductive function is restored within two to three months, and a woman can have a desired pregnancy.

The action of birth control pills prevents pregnancy by almost 100% if they are used correctly. At the same time, the use of these drugs regulates the menstrual cycle, relieves a woman from pain during menstruation, from menstrual bleeding. Modern contraceptives eliminate the symptoms of premenstrual and menopausal periods, reduce the risk of cancer, stop unwanted facial hair growth, acne.

Does the effect of birth control pills decrease with alcohol?

Women, especially at a young age, often wonder how alcohol affects the reliability of birth control pills. Is it possible to take them together? Of course, this question is legitimate, because taking contraceptives can be long, and life is life, and no one is immune from the circumstances when alcohol intake can occur.

I would like to be always confident in the effectiveness of contraceptives, and to know what factors can reduce it. It is unlikely that anyone will be able to completely eliminate alcohol. And the instructions for contraceptives often do not indicate that they cannot be combined with alcohol intake.

What to do if a festive feast is planned? If the celebration is scheduled for the evening, then the pill should be moved three hours earlier or later. In extreme cases, you can postpone taking the pill in the morning, as if you forgot to take it, but then you need to follow the instructions for the drug exactly according to it. It is also necessary to see a gynecologist to exclude pregnancy.

According to WHO, the dose of alcohol should not exceed 20 mg of ethanol per day, if there is still a need in combination with birth control pills. Moderation in drinking alcohol plays a big role in maintaining the effectiveness of contraceptives.

Side effects

The main disadvantages of birth control pills are their side effects on the body, which include:

• Bloody spotting, especially common at the beginning of taking the pills. After adaptation to the drug, as a rule, disappear.
• Estrogens, which are part of contraceptives, can cause bloating, swelling of the lower extremities, fluid retention in the body, increased blood pressure, migraine headaches.
• Progestins - on the contrary, cause irritability, nervousness, acne, some weight gain.
• Weight gain may be associated with increased appetite when taking contraceptives. In some cases, this is due to fluid retention in the body.
• Sometimes birth control pills can cause dark patches on the face that resemble pregnancy patches. In this case, it is better to switch to another type of pill.
• Formidable vascular diseases such as thrombosis can be caused. Their occurrence depends entirely on the dose of hormones in the remedy. The higher the dose of estrogens, the greater the risk of developing vascular thrombosis.
• When taking certain contraceptives, smoking is unacceptable. Women who smoke are at risk of developing heart attacks and strokes.
• Taking combined oral contraceptives can cause cholelithiasis attacks, and cause the formation of new stones in the biliary tract.
• Side effects can occur when oral contraceptives are combined with other drugs: antibiotics, antifungals, etc.

What contraceptive pills get better?

Modern contraceptives, which have microdoses of hormonal components in their composition, do not cause weight gain.

But, in case of the wrong choice of drug for a particular woman or girl, some weight gain is quite possible. Many women experience weight gain in the first two months of taking contraceptives, which is easily explained by the adaptation of the body. If in the future the weight increases, then it is necessary to decide on the transition to another type of tablet.

The effect of contraceptives on fat metabolism is well studied. Therefore, it is possible for each woman to choose a remedy that would not cause the above side effects.

Bleeding while taking birth control pills

Bleeding while using birth control pills is a possible side effect. Bleeding can be both spotting and breakthrough.

Spotting bleeding occurs in the first months of taking contraceptives. More often they are observed when using drugs with a low content of hormones than when combined. The reason is as follows: microdoses of hormones in a tablet do not have time to accumulate in the body, and they are not enough to delay menstruation. This is normal, and it is not advisable to stop taking the pills due to the appearance of spotting. The body will adapt, and all functions will be restored.

In the event of breakthrough bleeding, you need to sound the alarm. It is better to immediately seek advice from a doctor who will conduct an examination to exclude ectopic pregnancy, inflammatory diseases, uterine fibroids, endometriosis.

What to do if bleeding occurs:

• Continue taking contraceptives as usual, or stop taking them within seven days.
• Appeal to the doctor. Your doctor may prescribe additional high progestin pills.
• If bleeding continues, then a blood test should be taken to rule out anemia. Anemia is treated with iron supplements.

Vaginal discharge

Often women are concerned about the increase in the amount of vaginal discharge? and associate them with the use of birth control pills.

By the way, vaginal discharge is found in every woman, but normally they are odorless, transparent in appearance and insignificant.

In case of violation of the menstrual cycle, you need to consult a doctor who will tell you what to do. Establishing a cycle duration of 21-36 days is considered the norm.

With changes in mood, herbal collection with common prune helps well, which affects the level of testosterone in the body.

Skin problems in the form of acne, oily hair, their greasiness? talk about the imbalance of hormones in the female body. In this case, combined oral contraceptives with antiandrogenic action are selected.

Doctors believe that it is better to cancel the pills two to three months before the planned conception. However, it should be borne in mind that the likelihood of conception increases already in the first month after the abolition of the contraceptive.

How to take birth control pills correctly?

It is better to start taking contraceptives on the first day of menstruation - only then the pills act immediately. If taken on the fifth day of menstruation, additional precautions should be taken. Women with irregular periods can start taking contraceptives on the first day of the cycle, being sure that they are not pregnant.

In the absence of lactation, it is better to start taking it 21 days after birth. When breastfeeding, taking oral contraceptives should be postponed for six months.

After an abortion, it is necessary to start using birth control pills on the day of its implementation.

Standard regimen of hormonal contraceptives
The drug is taken daily for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break, then continues to be taken from a new package. Menstrual-like bleeding passes during the rest from taking the pills.

Special Modes
The 24 + 4 mode is typical for the contraceptive Jess, the package of which contains 24 hormonal and 4 inactive tablets. Tablets are taken daily, without interruption.

Extended mode
It consists in taking a product containing only "active" tablets (continuously, more than one pack). A common is a three-cycle regimen - taking 63 tablets of monophasic drugs followed by a 7-day break.

Thus, the number of menstrual-like bleeding per year is reduced to four.

What should I do if I forgot to take a pill?

The basic rule in case of missing a pill:
1. Take the missed pill as soon as possible!
2. The remaining tablets should be taken at the usual time for taking.

If one or two tablets are missed, or a new pack is not started within one to two days
Take a pill. There is a risk of pregnancy.

Missing three or more tablets in the first 2 weeks of taking, or not starting a new pack within three days
Take a pill. Use barrier methods of contraception for 7 days. If intercourse has taken place within 5 days, use emergency contraception.

Missing 3 or more pills during the third week of taking
Take the pill as soon as possible. If the package contains 28 tablets, do not take the last seven tablets. Do not take a break. Use barrier methods of contraception for 7 days. If intercourse has taken place within 5 days, use emergency contraception.

When do birth control pills start working?

When taken correctly, the tablets begin to act immediately after the start of the course.

How to choose the right drug for nulliparous and giving birth women?

Young, nulliparous women are more likely to be prescribed microdosed birth control pills. They are ideally suited for drugs such as Lindinet -20, Jess, Logest, Mercilon, Qlaira, Novinet.

Women who have given birth are suitable for low-dose and medium-dose hormonal preparations. These include: Yarina, Marvelon, Lindinet-30, Regulon, Silest, Jeanine, Minisiston, Diana-35 and Chloe.

Features of contraception depending on the age of the woman

The selection of birth control pills is a difficult task that can be solved together with the attending physician. The purpose of the task is reliable protection against the onset of unwanted pregnancy. Criteria may be efficacy, absence of side effects, ease of use of tablets and the speed of fertility recovery after contraceptive discontinuation.

Undoubtedly, the choice of contraceptive drug depends on age characteristics.

At what age can birth control pills be taken?

The periods of a woman's life are divided into adolescence - from 10 to 18 years, early reproductive - up to 35 years, late reproductive - up to 45 years, and perimenopausal - lasting 1-2 years from the last menstruation.

It is desirable to start contraception in adolescence, unless, of course, there is a need for it. In recent years, there has been a decrease in the age of first pregnancy and childbirth, and the frequency of abortions at a young age is increasing.

The most effective for adolescents, according to WHO, are recognized as combined oral contraceptives containing low doses of steroids, and third-generation drugs containing progestogens. Three-phase drugs are best suited for adolescents: Triziston, Triquilar, Tri-regol, as well as single-phase drugs: Femoden, Mercilon, Silest, Marvelon, which regulate the course of the menstrual cycle.

Birth control pills for young girls

Between the ages of 19 and 35, women can use all known methods of contraception. However, it should be borne in mind that the use of combined oral contraceptives is more reliable and effective.

In addition to oral contraceptives, other methods are also popular in our country: the introduction of an intrauterine device, the use of a condom, the use of injectable methods of contraception.

It has been proven that birth control pills are used not only for contraception, but also for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes for diseases such as infertility, inflammatory and oncological diseases, and menstrual irregularities. The only drawback to be aware of is that hormonal contraceptives do not protect women from sexually transmitted infections.

The most common remedies at this age are Janine, Yarina, Regulon.

What contraceptive pills are better to take after 35 years?

Doctors say that at this age, women should be protected from unwanted pregnancies using intrauterine devices, because. at this age, steroids, due to the presence of diseases acquired by a woman, are contraindicated.

A woman may suffer from diseases of the cervix, endometriosis, endocrinological diseases - diabetes, thyrotoxicosis, obesity. Many women smoke. These factors complicate the selection of hormonal contraceptives.

Steroids are prescribed only with a guaranteed absence of contraindications. The latest generation combined contraceptive pills and three-phase drugs are preferred: Femoden, Triziston, Silest, Triquilar, Marvelon, Tri-regol.

For this group of women, products with a low content of hormones, as well as "mini-drink" preparations, are excellent. Hormonal contraception is combined with the therapeutic effect of new generation drugs. The most popular of them is Femulen. It can be used if a woman has diseases such as thrombophlebitis, a previous heart attack and stroke, hypertension, severe headaches such as migraine, and some gynecological diseases.

What birth control pills are suitable for women over 45?

After the age of 45, ovarian function gradually decreases, the likelihood of pregnancy decreases, but is still possible. Many women at this age are still ovulating, and fertilization of the egg can occur.

Undoubtedly, a woman is able to become pregnant and give birth to a child, but at the same time, pregnancy often proceeds with complications, since at this age there is a rather large bouquet of various diseases. Usually there are diseases of the cardiovascular system, liver and kidneys, chronic disorders of the reproductive system. All factors can serve as contraindications for the appointment of hormonal contraceptives. Smoking and the presence of other bad habits also complicate the use of birth control pills.

Very often, by the age of 40, women no longer plan pregnancy, and unwanted pregnancies are artificially interrupted. Abortion, especially during this period, has consequences that threaten the woman's health. Frequent complications of abortion are the development of uterine fibroids, cancer, severe manifestations of menopause. The possibility of developing diseases indicates the need for contraception in this period.

Also, birth control pills are prescribed for many gynecological diseases, osteoporosis, to prevent the development of ovarian and uterine cancer.

At the age of over 45, it is promising to use low-dose hormonal drugs, mini-pill tablets, injectables and implants that are implanted under the skin (for example, Norplant).

Combined action contraceptive pills are contraindicated in women over 45 years of age in the following cases:

• if a woman smokes;
• if a woman suffers from diseases of the heart and blood vessels - heart attack, stroke, thrombosis;
• with type 2 diabetes;
• in severe liver diseases with the development of liver failure;
• with obesity.

At this age, the modern drug Femulen is often used, which has practically no side effects.

The effect of birth control pills

For pregnancy

When taking hormonal contraceptives, pregnancy is quite possible in cases where the woman does not take the pills correctly, or the regimen for taking them has been violated. If pregnancy is suspected or established, the drug should be discontinued immediately.

Taking hormonal drugs in the first three weeks of pregnancy does not adversely affect the condition of the fetus and the health of the woman.

Overall for the body

Hormonal contraceptives have different effects on a woman's body. In order to timely identify the side effects of contraceptives, a woman taking these drugs is obliged to consult with her doctor twice a year. Contraceptives can affect the microflora of the vagina. This influence manifests itself in various symptoms. Some people develop signs of thrush (bacterial vaginitis) because taking drugs containing progestogens leads to a decrease in the level of lactobacilli in the vagina. In this case, it is possible to cancel the tablets for a time when the level of estrogen is restored and the symptoms disappear.

For the development of mastopathy

Often women ask the question: can birth control pills cause mastopathy?

Experts say that with the right choice of birth control pills and the correct mode of their use, mastopathy cannot develop. Another thing is when a woman has a hormonal imbalance, there are chronic gynecological diseases, diseases of the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands. Hormonal imbalance, stress, depression, abortion, breast trauma can lead to mastopathy.

Contraceptives should be selected only by a doctor. The doctor must take into account all the characteristics of a particular woman, her state of health, age, heredity, phenotype, bad habits, lifestyle, sexual activity. With the wrong selection of the drug, no doubt, the risk of developing mastopathy increases.

It is important to start taking hormonal drugs only after consultation and examination by a specialist - in this case, you will avoid undesirable consequences and possible complications.

Do birth control pills help with menopause and androgenetic alopecia?

Effective treatment for women during menopause and with androgenetic alopecia can be pills and creams that contain estrogen and progesterone.

Is it possible to leave without a doctor's prescription?

Birth control pills are prescription drugs and only a doctor can prescribe them. The law does not prohibit the sale of hormonal contraceptives without a prescription. But only a doctor can help you choose the right method and means of contraception.

So, you have become the “proud” owner of a prescription for a hormonal drug that your doctor prescribed for treatment or contraception. Since any hormonal drugs have a rather serious effect on a woman's body, you need to remember a few rules that will help you avoid not-so-good consequences:

1. Immediately set a reminder on your mobile phone to take a pill (best in the evening, when the main things are done).

2. At the time of taking hormonal drugs, forget about alcohol. The only exception is those days when you have a break in taking pills, and then it is undesirable to use too much. It is known that alcohol and drugs can increase or decrease the effect of each other. And there may be completely unpredictable consequences that will arise much later, and you are unlikely to associate this with that fun evening that you spent with a glass in your hands.

3. Avoid stale foods, weird combinations, and hard-to-digest foods. For diarrhea (diarrhea) or vomiting can reduce the desired concentration of the drug and lead to the fact that instead of a “sleeping” cycle, you will get a completely “working” cycle that will nullify all treatment or contraception.

4. Remember that almost any hormonal agent "thickens" the blood. Therefore, monitor the state of your blood, take tests on time.

6. The most exciting moment is weight gain. Unfortunately, this is a common fact, no matter how doctors try to convince us. Of course, now hormonal drugs are improved, with a minimum dosage. But still, the danger of weight gain remains. Here you need to know that in the first months of taking such pills, the body will send signals that it seems to be hungry, although you ate just an hour ago. Learn to catch this moment and don’t “get fooled by the provocations” of your own body.

7. There are also cases of decreased libido. This is also quite natural and understandable.

Be that as it may, hormonal drugs, like any medicine, have their advantages and disadvantages. But still, it is better to use them only for treatment, and for contraception it is better to consider other options, as more and more new studies have recently been opened on the negative effect of such drugs on the woman's body as a whole. In any case, the choice is yours.

Hormonal drugs are a group of drugs used for hormone therapy and containing hormones or their synthesized analogues.

The effect of hormonal drugs on the body is well studied, and most of the studies are freely available to a wide range of readers.

There are hormonal agents containing hormones of natural origin (they are made from the glands of slaughtered cattle, urine and blood of various animals and humans), including both plant and synthetic hormones and their analogues, which naturally differ from natural ones in their chemical composition. , however, produce the same physiological effect on the body.

Hormonal agents are prepared in the form of oily and aqueous formulations for intramuscular or subcutaneous administration, as well as in the form of tablets and ointments (creams).

Traditional medicine uses hormonal drugs for diseases that are associated with a lack of production of certain hormones by the human body, for example, insulin deficiency in diabetes, sex hormones - with reduced ovarian function, triiodothyronine - with myxedema. This therapy is called substitution therapy and is carried out over a very long period of the patient's life, and sometimes throughout his life. Also, hormonal preparations, in particular, containing glucocorticoids, are prescribed as anti-allergic or anti-inflammatory drugs, and mineralocorticoids are prescribed for myasthenia gravis.

The effect of hormonal ointments on the body

Scientists have noted that in terms of the strength of the effect on the body, hormonal preparations for external use differ depending on the form of release. Ointments are considered the most powerful, and then (in descending order) creams, lotions, gels and liquid forms (sprays) already come. Hormonal ointments containing topical corticosteroids are successfully used in the treatment of skin diseases of non-infectious origin, including allergic manifestations. Their action is aimed at eliminating the cause of rashes or skin irritations, which is the inflammatory process.

Of course, unlike tablets or injections of hormonal agents, hormones contained in ointments are not absorbed into the blood in large doses, and therefore their effect on internal organs and systems is minimal. These ointments are quite effective, but require extreme caution and strict adherence to medical recommendations when used, that is, external hormonal agents must be applied in a strictly defined dosage, localized and in compliance with the rules indicated by the doctor. It is also undesirable for a long uncontrolled use of hormonal ointment, especially with a high concentration of active substances. about any SELF TREATMENT And SELF-APPOINTMENT hormonal ointments and speech to be CAN NOT.

Although corticosteroid substances in ointments are synthesized, nevertheless, they regularly perform the functions of hormones. Therefore, many patients are concerned about the question of whether these compounds will have a detrimental effect on the metabolic processes of the body, regulated by the endocrine system. Scientists have proven that when released into the bloodstream (through the skin), hormones are indeed able to somewhat reduce the productivity of the adrenal glands, however, this occurs only during the period of external hormone therapy (application of ointments). After completion of the course of treatment, the activity of the adrenal glands is fully restored.

The effect of hormonal contraceptives on the body

Since the advent of the first birth control pill (over 50 years ago), hormonal contraceptives have been a hot topic of debate. This topic has not lost its relevance to this day. Someone belongs to the supporters who claim that their state of health has noticeably improved from the constant use of hormones, and someone is an ardent opponent of the use of pills to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Undoubtedly, one thing - both the benefits and the harmful side effects of this form of contraception are well studied and have long been known.

The effect of hormonal contraceptives on the body is exclusively individual and depends on many factors. It should be borne in mind that the use of drugs is a direct intervention in the natural course of physiological processes in the body and a direct impact on the daily functioning of all systems and organs. That is why making a decision to take any medications, in particular hormones, CAN ONLY A DOCTOR, preferably, on the basis of a comprehensive examination and testing, including the state of the hormonal background.

The effect of hormonal pills on the body

Like any drug, birth control pills affect the entire body as a whole. It has been experimentally proven that regular long-term use of hormonal pills reduces the risk of cancer by an average of 50% (+ - 5%). But when a tumor is detected, hormonal drugs are no longer prescribed.

Doctors also note that the use of contraceptives helps to normalize the menstrual cycle and reduce pain during menstruation. Sometimes in women with skin problems, in particular acne, acne disappears from taking hormones. This is due to the fact that acne was caused by a hormonal imbalance in the body, and birth control pills eliminated this problem.

Particular attention when taking hormonal contraceptives should be paid to the following recommendations:

• pills designed to prevent unwanted pregnancy do not protect the female body from sexually transmitted diseases;
• women over 35 years of age when taking combined contraceptive pills should stop smoking, since in this case the risk of blockage of blood vessels increases significantly;
• during feeding, it is undesirable to use tablets of a combined composition, since the estrogen in their composition affects the quality and composition of milk. In this case, tablets are prescribed containing only the hormone of the corpus luteum;
• with the appearance of nausea, dizziness, indigestion, you should seek the advice of a specialist;
• if you are prescribed drugs, you must inform your doctor that you are taking hormonal contraceptives;
• if there was a pass in taking the pills, then it becomes necessary to use additional contraceptives, for example, condoms.

For women with severe forms of endocrine diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, as well as those with pathology of the heart and blood vessels, neoplasms, taking oral contraceptives is undesirable. The attending physician will tell you more about the effect of hormonal drugs on the body, since their appointment is advisable only after a complete examination, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body.