Low Dose Birth Control Pills: A Better Hormonal Contraceptive
Birth control pills, also called oral contraceptives, are a top pick of several couples for family planning, with about 151 million women relying on them. They were widely accepted when first introduced. However, several side effects turned out to be the downside of hormonal contraceptives.
This is why the evolution of low-dose birth control pills took place. These methods aim to provide reliable pregnancy prevention while possibly reducing side effects.
In this article, we will explore the composition, benefits, and possible risks associated with low-dose birth control, assisting you in determining whether it is the right option for you. Keep reading to learn more.
Low-dose birth control
Low-dose birth control pills differ from traditional oral contraceptives as they contain reduced levels of hormones, Estrogen, and Progesterone. They are classified into two types, i.e., Combination pills and Progesterone-only pills.
Combination low-dose pills contain both Estrogen and Progesterone. On the other hand, Progesterone-only low-dose pills, also known as mini pills, exclude Estrogen entirely and solely contain Progesterone. They may be preferred by those who cannot tolerate Estrogen or are seeking to minimize Estrogen-related side effects.
The main difference between high-dose and low-dose birth control is the concentration of hormones present in them. Traditional combination pills often contain higher levels of Estrogen-50 µg, and modern medications contain between 30 and 35 micrograms (µg) of Ethinyl Estradiol. However, modern low-dose formulations have a further reduced concentration, limited to 20 µg or less.
They maintain the same effectiveness as the higher-dose variants with potentially fewer adverse effects. So, they are a better and improved alternative to the traditional high-dose birth control pills.
Benefits of low dose birth control
Low-dose contraceptives such as Femilon tablet offer several potential advantages such as:
Fewer side effects
Low-dose formulations have fewer side effects as compared to standard-dose pills. The side effects include breast tenderness and nausea, typically associated with higher Estrogen doses.
Menstrual benefits
Oral contraceptives can result in lighter, more regular periods, alleviate menstrual cramps, and, in some cases, eliminate them. It may also reduce the severity of perimenopause symptoms.
Health benefits
Some studies suggest that the use of low-dose birth control pills can lower the risk of Endometrial and Ovarian cancers, as well as a decrease in ovarian cysts. The chances of Ectopic pregnancy, i.e., the implant of a fertilized egg outside the uterus, also reduces.
Side effects and risks
While low-dose birth control pills aim to minimize adverse effects, they still may cause certain side effects linked with the use of hormonal contraceptives, such as:
- Changes in libido
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Spotting between periods
- Sore breasts
- Poor sleep
However, the chances of such side effects are substantially lower for lower-dose birth control in comparison to high-dose variants.
There are also certain risks associated with the use of low dose birth control, which may include:
Low effectiveness
Progesterone-only pills may be slightly less effective at preventing pregnancy compared to combined oral contraceptives. However, there is no association of effectiveness with dosage.
Strict schedule
Birth control pills work best when taken at the same time daily. Constant change in the time of administration can increase the chances of an unwanted pregnancy.
No STD protection
Neither Progesterone-only nor low-dose combination pills protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), necessitating the use of additional protection like condoms.
Choosing the right birth control
Determining the most suitable birth control pill involves a personalized approach. Individual health considerations, duration of effectiveness, and additional benefits are important factors when choosing the right birth control.
If you continue to experience side effects for a long time when using low-dose birth control pills, you may consider non-hormonal options like condoms and Copper IUDs. While condoms offer STD protection and can be used anytime, Copper IUD offers long-term pregnancy prevention.
Hormonal IUDs are another option if you are comfortable with hormonal birth control but seek long-term protection with lighter periods. Sterilization is another option if you are interested in permanent contraception.
Before making any decision, consulting a healthcare provider becomes paramount in making an informed decision suitable for your needs.
Conclusion
Low-dose birth control pills like Femilon tablet, with reduced hormone levels, aim to maintain effectiveness while potentially minimizing side effects associated with higher doses. From alleviating menstrual discomfort to potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers, low-dose options present several advantages.
However, they are not without risks, including possible side effects like nausea and a need for strict adherence to intake schedules for optimal efficacy.
Choosing the right birth control pill hinges on various individual factors, including health considerations, hormone tolerance, and additional benefits. Seeking guidance from a healthcare provider remains crucial in choosing the most effective and suitable option.