2. Gestagen contraceptive pills ("mini-pill")

Contraception for women during lactation (breastfeeding). Contraception for women who have given birth or women of late reproductive age who have a regular sexual life, in case of contraindications to the use of estrogens. Contraception for smokers over the age of 35.

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

Combined contraceptives are divided into drugs:

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

How do birth control pills work?

The action of the "mini-drank" is based on the same principles, but the effective moment 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?

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

• 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?

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

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

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?

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 package). 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?

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?

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

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

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

At what age can birth control pills be taken?

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

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, 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?

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?

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.

The effect of birth control pills

For pregnancy

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

For the development of 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?

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

Hormonal pills are a group of medicines containing hormones or their synthetic analogues. They are used for hormone therapy.

Show all

Principles of classification

In medicine, hormonal drugs are classified as follows:

• preparations of natural hormones (made from the glands of livestock, blood and urine of animals, humans);
• synthetic medicines;
• derivatives of hormonal substances.

Synthetic analogues differ in their structure from natural hormones, but have a similar physiological effect. In the human body, hormones are produced to control vital functions.

Each gland produces certain substances:

• the pituitary gland produces gonadotropin, oxytocin;
• pancreas - insulin;
• adrenal glands - glucocorticosteroids (strong anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, analgesic substances), sex hormones, anabolics.

There is a misconception about the harmfulness of hormonal drugs. Doctors say that the drugs of this pharmacological group are an important and necessary addition to complex therapy. Often, medicines provide a decent quality of life for severe patients (with chronic pathologies). In some cases, hormonal pills can save the patient's life.

Hormones are prescribed in the following cases:

• contraception;
• replacement therapy for menopause;
• fight against testosterone deficiency;
• treatment of inflammation, allergies;
• the fight against hormonal deficiency in hypothyroidism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Addison's disease;
• oncology therapy.



oral contraception

This type of therapy is considered the most common way to use hormonal pills. Scientists have proven that high doses of sex hormones inhibit the process of ovulation. This releases toxins. Then the scientists synthesized hormones (substances with high efficiency and excellent tolerance). The resulting product is a reliable protection against pregnancy without harming the figure. Extra pounds do not bother, there is no shock concentration of the substance.

The effectiveness of all contraceptives is evaluated by the Pearl index (determines the likelihood of pregnancy within a year with regular use of medications). On average, the value of the indicator is up to 3%. Usually, with regular use of contraceptives, the probability of pregnancy rarely exceeds 1%.

Doctors distinguish the following groups of hormonal pills:

1. 1. Combined.
2. 2. Non-combined (mini-pills).
3. 3. Female means of emergency contraception.



Combined medicines

Combination drugs (COCs) are effective means to prevent pregnancy. They contain 2 main components: estrogen and gestagen. Ethinylestradiol acts as an estrogen, and levonorgestrel, norgestrel, and other synthetic hormones act as a progestogen. The concentration of hormones is minimal, which ensures their safety. When used, adverse reactions rarely occur: overweight, breast tenderness, anorexia.



Monophasic medications include a constant concentration of hormones in all tablets. Despite the cyclical hormonal changes in the body, monophasic drugs are a strict dose of the hormone that is taken daily. Doctors believe that these drugs are the best choice for active women under 35 years old. Logest is the name of an effective drug in this group.

Logest is a German-made hormonal drug. Contains 20 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 75 micrograms of gestodene. Ideal for young women as it is easy to use and transport.

Lindinet is a complete analogue of Logest. It differs in its dosage (it contains 30 micrograms of estrogen). It is a Hungarian drug with excellent tolerance. Jeanine is a hormonal drug consisting of ethinyl estradiol and a progestogen. Pearl index when using the drug - 1%. It has some difference from other drugs: it has active androgenic activity (due to dienogest). Therefore, the drug is primarily prescribed for an increased content of male sex hormones. New studies have shown that the drug has a strong hypocholesterolemic effect.



Effective drugs

Yarina is considered the most popular contraceptive pill. This German preparation contains ethinylestradiol (30mcg) and drospirenone (3mg). The agent reduces the concentration of cholesterol, has an anti-adrogenic effect. Yarina is an excellent remedy for teenage acne, it is often prescribed for acne due to its ability to slow down the production of sebum and reduce signs of the disease.

Diane-35 has a pronounced antiandrogenic effect, therefore it is widely used to combat acne, seborrhea. In addition, the drug is recommended for contraception in women with signs of hirsutism (excessive hair growth).



Jess is an effective remedy with antiandrogenic activity. Due to gestagens, all side effects of the drug are leveled. Therefore, the drug is well tolerated. Jess softens the signs of premenstrual syndrome, favorably affecting cholesterol levels. Low-dose COCs include Rigeviron, Femoden, Novinet, Miniziston, Regulon.

Biphasic drugs

Biphasic drugs are complex hormonal tablets, the main difference of which is a higher concentration of progestogen. By this they support the physiological cycle in the female body.

Three-phase COCs are presented as groups of tablets. The concentration of estrogen is maximum, and the content of progestogen increases from phase 1 to phase 3. These drugs are more modern and act physiologically. Experts advise buying monophasic contraceptives. When the concentration of hormones changes, the dose of active substances increases. This most often provokes the appearance of side effects (especially in biphasic). Representatives of two-phase preparations: Anteovin, Bi-Novum. Three-phase preparations are represented by such medicines as Triziston, Tri-regol, Trister.



The main action is to prevent the onset of an unwanted pregnancy. This action, regardless of the composition and dosage of the drug, is based on blocking the sex hormones responsible for ovulatory functions. The ovaries go into "sleep mode", decrease in size. In a similar way, ovulation is suppressed, the properties of cervical mucus change.

For maximum effect and protection against pregnancy, it is important to use drugs regularly throughout the course of therapy (21 or 28 days). They are taken once a day. What to do when you miss another pill? It must be drunk immediately, as they remembered it. Further, the drug is taken according to the old scheme, even if you have to take 2 tablets.

For effective and reliable protection, it is important to assess the length of the period during which drugs were not used. Being late up to 12 hours does not require any additional action - protection against pregnancy remains close to 100%. A longer absence of contraception requires the use of additional protection (barrier, spermicidal contraception).



Pros and cons of using COCs

Considered medicines have the following advantages:

• fight against menstrual disorders, PMS (normalize the cycle, reduce blood loss, minimize the signs of PMS);
• treatment of acne, seborrhea, acne pathology (for this, COCs with antiandrogenic effects are used);
• prevention of benign breast tumors;
• prevention of the development of ovarian cancer, endometrial carcinoma (protection against pathologies lasts up to 15 years after the abolition of COCs).

Negative effects from taking combined hormonal drugs:

• the likelihood of side effects;
• the need for daily use.



Contraindications to the use of combined drugs:

• thrombotic diseases of deep veins;
• diabetes;
• oncology;
• vaginal bleeding;
• liver disease;
• age after 35 years;
• alcohol abuse;
• drug use;
• many drugs are strictly forbidden to use with damage to the kidneys, adrenal glands.

What is a "mini-pill"?

By "mini-drank" are meant contraceptives with one component - a gestagen. The dose of the substance is minimal. Such medicines are prescribed to persons after 35 years of age, women with a history of diabetes mellitus. Breastfeeding is not a contraindication to their use.



But mini-pills have a smaller pearl index. The use of such drugs provokes intermenstrual bleeding, the occurrence of ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy. The contraceptive effect of mini-pill drops significantly if you use them at different times. The most common members of the group are Linestrenol and Levonorgestrel.

Means of urgent contraception is an ambulance in case of unforeseen situations. They contain high doses of hormones. Known emergency contraceptives:

• Postinor;
• Escapelle.



menopause period

Menopause is another reason to use hormones. During this period, the following symptoms appear:

• irregular periods;
• flushes of heat;
• sweating;
• tachycardia;
• dryness of the vagina;
• osteoporosis.



The reason for such a bright clinic of the disease is estrogen deficiency. But the body can be successfully deceived by using estrogens. Ideal medications with a contraceptive effect.

For this purpose, use:

• purely estrogen drugs;
• estrogen-progesterone drugs;
• estrogen-progesterone-androgen combinations.

More often prescribe drugs of the first group. They contain a conjugated hormone of animal origin (from the urine of mares). The most popular drugs: Estrofeminal, Premarin, Hormoplex. They should be taken daily at the same time of day for 3 weeks, then a week off.

Representatives of complex two-phase preparations:

1. 1. Divina is a Finnish remedy containing estradiol and progestogen.
2. 2. Klimonorm - a German drug from Bayer. Contains estradiol and levonorgestrel.
3. 3. Klimen includes estradiol and cyproterone.



Three-phase drugs are used constantly (Trisequens, Trisequens forte.)

Replacement therapy: contraindications

There are conditions in which hormone therapy is strictly prohibited:

• breast cancer;
• oncology of the endometrium;
• liver damage;
• uterine myoma.



Side effects:

• mood swings;
• intermenstrual bleeding.

Before prescribing such therapy, a complete examination of patients is carried out. Hormone treatment is the main way to fight cancer. Similar therapy is used to combat hormonally sensitive tumors. Hormones inhibit the growth of cancer cells, improving the well-being of patients.

Prescribing hormonal drugs often scares people. There are many myths around hormones, most of which are fundamentally wrong.

Myth 1: Hormonal drugs are special contraceptive pills for women.

No. Hormonal preparations are medicines obtained synthetically. They act like natural hormones produced in our body. There are many organs in the human body that secrete hormones: female and male genital organs, endocrine glands, central nervous system and others. Accordingly, hormonal preparations can be different, and they are prescribed for a variety of diseases.

Female hormonal preparations (containing female sex hormones) may or may not have a contraceptive effect. Sometimes, on the contrary, they normalize the hormonal background and contribute to the onset of pregnancy. Preparations containing male sex hormones are prescribed to men with a decrease in the quality of the ejaculate (that is, sperm motility), with hypofunction, and a decrease in the level of male sex hormones.

Myth 2: Hormones are prescribed only for very severe diseases

No. There are a number of non-severe diseases in which hormonal drugs are also prescribed. For example, decreased thyroid function (hypofunction). Doctors often prescribe hormones in this case, for example, thyroxine or eutiroks.

Myth 3: If you do not take a hormonal pill on time, then nothing bad will happen.

No. Hormonal preparations should be taken strictly by the hour. For example, a hormonal contraceptive pill works for 24 hours. Accordingly, it is necessary to drink it once a day. There are drugs that you need to drink 2 times a day. These are some male sex hormones, as well as corticosteroids (eg, dexamethasone). Moreover, it is recommended to take hormones at the same time of day. If you drink hormones irregularly, or forget to drink at all, the level of the necessary hormone can drop sharply.

For example, if a woman forgot to take a hormonal contraceptive pill, the next day she should drink the forgotten evening pill in the morning, and another pill in the evening of the same day. If the interval between doses was more than a day (recall: a hormonal contraceptive pill is valid for 24 hours), then the level of hormones in the blood will decrease very much. In response to this, slight spotting will certainly appear. In such cases, you can continue taking birth control pills, but additionally use protection for the next week. If more than 3 days have passed, it is necessary to stop taking hormones, use other means of contraception, wait for the onset of menstruation and additionally consult a doctor.

Myth 4: If you take hormones, they accumulate in the body

No. When the hormone enters the body, it immediately breaks down into chemical compounds, which are then excreted from the body. For example, a birth control pill breaks down and “leaves” the body during the day: that is why it needs to be taken every 24 hours.

Need to know: The mechanism of long-term action of hormones is not associated with their accumulation in the body. This is simply the principle of action of these drugs: "work" through other structures of the body.

However, hormonal drugs continue to "work" after they have stopped taking them. But they work indirectly. For example, a woman takes hormonal pills for several months, then stops taking them, and in the future she has no problems with her cycle.

Why is this happening? Hormonal drugs act on different target organs. For example, female birth control pills affect the ovaries, uterus, mammary glands, and parts of the brain. When the pill "left" the body, the mechanism that it launched continues to work.

Myth 5: Hormonal drugs are not prescribed during pregnancy

Discharged. If a woman had hormonal disorders before pregnancy, then during the bearing of the fetus she needs drug support so that the production of female and male hormones is normal and the child develops normally.

Or another situation. Before pregnancy, the woman was fine, but with her onset, something suddenly went wrong. For example, she suddenly notices that intense hair growth has begun from the navel down and around the nipples. In this case, you should definitely consult a doctor who can prescribe a hormonal examination, and, if necessary, prescribe hormones. Not necessarily female sex - it can be, for example, adrenal hormones.

Myth 6: Hormonal drugs have a lot of side effects, primarily weight gain.

There are almost no drugs without side effects. But you need to distinguish side effects that do not require discontinuation of the drug. For example, swelling of the mammary glands when taking contraceptive hormones is considered a normal phenomenon. Scanty spotting in the first or second months of admission in the intermenstrual period also has the right to be. Headache, dizziness, fluctuations in weight (plus or minus 2 kg) - all this is not a pathology and not a sign of a disease. Hormonal preparations are prescribed for a sufficiently long period. By the end of the first month, the body adapts, and everything returns to normal.

But, in order to avoid really serious problems associated with, say, blood vessels, it is imperative to be examined and tested before prescribing a medicine and while taking it. And only a doctor can prescribe you a specific hormonal drug that will not harm your health.

Myth 7: You can always find an alternative to hormones.

Not always. There are situations when hormonal drugs are indispensable. Let's say a woman under 50 had her ovaries removed. As a result, she begins to age and lose health very quickly. In this case, her body until the age of 55-60 must be supported by hormone therapy. Of course, provided that her underlying disease (due to which the ovaries were removed) has no contraindications to such an appointment.

Moreover, with some diseases, female sex hormones can be strictly recommended even by a neuropsychiatrist. For example, with depression.

Our life is filled with hormones of happiness, pleasure, stress, fear. It is they who evoke these emotions. Hormones help us in various situations and rule our body in the most direct sense. For a long time, people have learned to use them in medicine for various pathologies and reduced activity of the endocrine glands. Only many are wary of taking such funds. Let's understand what hormonal drugs are and what they are used for.

Hormonal drugs- medicines containing hormones or their artificial substitutes. They may include:

• natural hormones that are secreted from the endocrine glands of slaughtered cattle, blood and urine of animals and humans;
• artificial hormonal agents and their derivatives;
• chemical analogs of hormones that differ in structure from natural hormones, but endowed with similar properties.

Hormone therapy is needed for:

• prevention of unwanted pregnancy;
• women during menopause;
• treatment of inflammatory and allergic diseases;
• treatment of hormonal deficiency and cancer;

There are a lot of hormonal preparations in the world. Consider hormonal contraceptives and women's health, which are widely used in gynecology. A full list of titles and prices can be seen at the end of the article.

Hormonal contraceptives are:

• combined (estrogen-gestagenic);
• non-combined (mini-drank);
• emergency drugs.

Combined oral contraceptives

This group of drugs is used in gynecology to prevent unwanted pregnancy and treat a number of hormonal problems, it contains 2 types of hormones - estrogen and progesterone. Often seen as an abbreviation for COC. The effectiveness of protection is determined by the Pearl index - the lower the number, the more reliable the method. The index is less than 1.

The advantages are determined by high efficiency, excellent tolerability, rapid reversibility (pregnancy can occur in the first cycle after discontinuation of the drug) and additional non-contraceptive properties.

Depending on the dose of hormones, they are divided into: monophasic and multiphasic.

Monophasic oral contraceptives

The concentration of hormones in tablets does not change during the entire time of admission. The contraceptive effect is associated with ethinylestradiol, the dosage of which is selected purposefully to suppress ovulation.

It is important to remember that these drugs can only be prescribed by a doctor! Self-medication can lead to hormonal failure and other unpleasant consequences.

• Jess (Dimia)

These popular hormonal pills for women contain drospirenone, which stops weight gain and edema, relieves PMS symptoms, hormonal breast engorgement, headache and muscle pain. It also helps to reduce the symptoms of acne, oily skin and hair. Dimia is an analogue of Jess, only it costs an order of magnitude cheaper.

• Belara

The hormonal drug has a positive effect on the restoration of the cycle, reducing the severity of PMS, the incidence of anemia, pain during menstruation, cysts and ovarian malignancies. It has a direct effect on the condition of the skin, so it is often prescribed to girls to improve it.

• Lindinet 20 (Logest)

When taken systematically, they have a therapeutic effect, normalizing the hormonal state and preventing the development of a number of diseases in gynecology, including reducing the risk of neoplasms.

• Novinet (Mersilon)

Excellent hormones. They have additional positive effects: menstruation becomes scarcer and less painful, the occurrence of anemia is reduced, diseases of the uterus, ovaries, and mammary glands develop less often, have a beneficial effect on the skin, remove acne and acne. Usually assigned to young girls.

Contraceptive packages may contain a different number of tablets. It depends on the reception scheme. They are of two types: 21+7 and 24+4. There is no fundamental difference.

First scheme: Active pills are taken for 21 days without a break, then a 7-day rest is made, during which withdrawal bleeding begins, then a new pack begins.

The second scheme is a set of 24 active tablets and 4 inactive pacifiers, which you can not take, they are needed for convenience, so as not to forget when the next pack should start. Although sometimes "dummies" are not dummies at all. In some drugs Yarina Plus and Jess Plus) in inactive tablets is levomefolate - the active form of folic acid, in this form it is better absorbed by the body. This is done to reduce the risk of developing neural tube defects in the fetus if a woman wants to become pregnant immediately after stopping the drug.

Multiphasic oral contraceptives

Due to the phase of the monthly cycle, the dosage of hormones in tablets changes, this ensures natural changes in the hormonal background and reduces the risk of side effects. The packages of contraceptives in this group contain 2-3 types of tablets. The dose of estrogen responsible for the contraceptive effect is maximum in each tablet, and the level of progestogen increases gradually, creating a limit by the 3rd phase of the cycle.

• The brightest and most modern representative − claira.

In addition to the contraceptive effect, it helps to reduce the abundance and duration of menstruation, reduces the manifestations of PMS symptoms, and also relieves pain during critical days. Taking contraceptives with small doses of hormones helps to reduce the possibility of developing a number of gynecological diseases, and also reduces the manifestations of hypertrichosis - excessive hair growth. These hormonal pills for women are considered the most physiological.

Non-combined OK

The second name of the group is "mini-drank". They contain a small dosage of the hormone progestin and are a substitute for COCs. They differ from them in their composition - they include an artificial analogue of progesterone. The content of hormones is lower than in other preparations. They do not suppress the process of ovulation.

The contraceptive effect is based on a change in the properties of the mucus lining the cervix. Due to the increase in viscosity, it becomes a barrier to the movement of the sperm to the egg. The rate of contraction of the walls of the fallopian tubes slows down, due to which the egg cannot enter the uterus. If the sperm nevertheless reaches the target, then the 2nd protective mechanism is activated: a hormonal change in the mucous membrane of the walls of the uterus does not allow the fertilized egg to attach.

The effectiveness of these funds is 95%

The main advantage of this group of hormonal pills is that the natural menstrual cycle and menstrual bleeding are preserved.

A significant drawback is that the tablets cannot be skipped. If in the case of COCs, the gap can be more than 12 hours and nothing terrible will happen, then here this interval is only 3 hours, after which hormone therapy is disrupted, i.e. reduced contraceptive activity.

• Charozetta (Lactinet, Modell mam).

They are best suited for use during lactation as they do not affect the production and taste of milk, as well as girls who are prohibited . The contraceptive effect of the drug is achieved by increasing the viscosity of the mucus that covers the cervix, which is an obstacle to the passage of sperm to the target.

• Exluton

Like other OKs in this group, the use is preferable when breastfeeding, contraindications to COCs. The contraceptive effect is associated with an increase in the viscosity of the mucus, which prevents the movement of spermatozoa, violations of the contractions of the walls of the fallopian tubes (this change is reversible after discontinuation of the drug).

Emergency Medicines

Emergency (postcoital) contraception is carried out after unprotected intercourse, or if the methods of protection failed, within 1-3 days to stop an unwanted pregnancy. It is important to know that these should be used as infrequently as possible. can cause irreversible damage to the body.

• Escapelle (postinor)

They inhibit ovulation, which stops the fertilization process. Prevent implantation, ie. penetration and fixation of the embryo in the wall of the uterus. Will not work if the implementation has already taken place. Reception should be started as early as possible (no later than 72 hours) after unprotected sex. The longer the time interval between an unprotected act and taking the drug, the higher the likelihood of pregnancy. Used at any time during the cycle.

• Jenale

It slows down ovulation and prevents the attachment of a fertilized egg. It is applied 2 hours before or 2 hours after a meal (within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse), regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle.

Note! These hormonal pills for women should not be taken with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (painkillers, antipyretics, such as ibuprofen) for a week after taking the drug.

What is a hormonal imbalance?

Hormonal disbalance- this is a discrepancy in the ratio of estrogens and progesterone - the main assistants in the activity of the reproductive system. The work of the whole organism is connected with the hormonal status.

Failure factors:

• dysfunction of the endocrine glands. This can occur both as a result of a disease and as a result of developmental anomalies;
• incorrect production of hormones can be both congenital and acquired problem;
• increased nervous excitability and prolonged stress;
• uncontrolled use of postcoital contraceptive drugs provokes a sharp shift in hormones, after which the body can come in order for years;
• independent use of hormonal drugs;
• artificial termination of pregnancy (abortion);
• age-related physiological deviations. Puberty and menopause are 2 periods in a woman's life when a radical reboot of the endocrine system occurs.

Menopause is a predictable hormonal failure caused by an inevitable reduction in the work of the ovaries.

Menopause and menopause

Menopause refers to the long-term effect of the gradual withering of the female reproductive system.

The menopause period is divided into 3 phases: premenopause, menopause, postmenopause. Key hormonal surges are observed in premenopause. This phase combines the time when menstruation becomes arbitrary, ends altogether, and 2 years after that. Premenopause lasts approximately 4 years. If during the year there were no spontaneous periods, we can say that the last menstrual bleeding is menopause. It occurs between 40 and 50 years of age. The time of its onset in most cases depends on genetic characteristics.

tides- the most common nuisance that is caused by hormonal changes. During the "attacks" a woman may experience a feeling of heat, most often in the face. Reducing hot flashes during menopause will help reduce the diet of meat and protein foods, it is advisable to eat more vegetables and fruits. Other symptoms include depression, migraine headaches.

Involuntary urination also develops, unpleasant sensations appear during sexual intercourse, and the likelihood of cystitis increases. These manifestations are associated with a decrease in the level of estrogen in the blood. Brittle nails, hair loss and coarsening of the skin are characteristic manifestations of estrogen deficiency.

Bigger problems may arise:

• osteoporosis (increased bone fragility);
• atherosclerosis (deposition of cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels);
• diabetes.

To prevent all these problems, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used. Its purpose is to compensate for the lost function of the ovaries and prolong youth. But not all women are shown it. Contraindications are quite serious:

• deep vein thrombi of the lower extremities;
• intrauterine bleeding of unknown origin;
• oncological diseases;
• liver pathology.

However, hormone therapy is not as scary as it seems. There are special hormonal 40s.

Hormonal pills for women that are used during menopause may contain:

• estrogen;
• a combination of estrogen with progesterone;
• combination of estrogen, progesterone and androgen.

List of hormonal drugs for women over 40

• Angelique

Contains both types of hormones (estrogen and progestogen), the levels of which fall during menopause. There is a replacement of hormones that are no longer produced by the ovaries.

Estradiol prevents or alleviates hot flashes, excessive sweating, sleep disturbances, depressive states, increased nervousness, dizziness and migraine headaches, as well as urinary incontinence, dryness, itching, burning sensation in the vagina, discomfort during intercourse. The inclusion of a progestogen (drospirenone) in the preparation reduces the risk of developing uterine cancer.

The drug reduces bone loss, the so-called postmenopausal osteoporosis. Drospirenone regulates the excretion of fluid and sodium ions, which reduces blood pressure numbers, weight, breast pain and other symptoms associated with tissue swelling.

• Ladybone

Inhibits the destruction of bone mass in the postmenopausal period, smoothes symptoms such as hot flashes, increased sweating, headache. Raises libido and mood. It has a tonic effect on the vaginal mucosa, while not causing the growth of endometrial tissues (which can lead to neoplasms).

• Cyclo-Proginova

Contains a special salt of estradiol, which in the body is converted into its own hormone. Also included in the composition is norgestrel, a derivative of progesterone. Its use for 10 days of a monthly cycle stops the excessive growth of the endometrial mucosa and stops the development of uterine cancer. Used in perimenopausal women to treat spontaneous uterine bleeding.

Estradiol compensates for the lack of estrogen in the body during the approach of menopause and creates a favorable course of therapy:

• eliminates hot flashes;
• excessive sweating;
• insomnia;
• increased nervousness and causeless irritability;
• pain in the sternum;
• dizziness;
• migraine pain;
• weakening the desire for intimacy;
• muscle and joint pain;
• involuntary leakage of urine;
• dryness and itching in the vagina;
• pain during sex;
• reduces bone wasting.

Hormonal preparations for women after 40 years of age can be taken at any time. It is important to exclude pregnancy!

Table of hormonal drugs with active ingredients and prices

The table shows the list and prices of the popular hormonal drugs that were mentioned above. It is worth noting that the mark-up for drugs in each region is different, so the cost may vary. You should be aware that all preparations containing hormones are prescription drugs.

After a slash (\) the prices of small and large packages are written.

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