Non-Surgical Treatments for Stress Urinary Incontinence: Emsella
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How Oral Contraceptive Pills Work
At Complete Healthcare for Women, Dr. Richard Lorenzo, DO, and Kortney Jones, ARNP, are dedicated to providing comprehensive reproductive health care.
Types of Oral Contraceptive Pills
There are two main types of oral contraceptive pills we prescribe: combination pills and progestin-only pills.
Combination Pills: These pills contain both estrogen and progestin. They are the most commonly prescribed type of oral contraceptive and come in various formulations, including monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic, which differ in hormone levels throughout the cycle.
Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills): These contain only progestin and are suitable for women who cannot take estrogen. They require strict adherence to daily dosing to be effective.
Mechanism of Action
Oral contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy through several mechanisms:
1. Inhibition of Ovulation:
- Combination Pills: The hormones in these pills maintain stable levels of estrogen and progestin, which prevent the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Without the LH surge, ovulation does not occur, and no egg is released for fertilization.
- Progestin-Only Pills: These pills primarily prevent ovulation in about 50% of cycles. They also rely on other mechanisms to prevent pregnancy.
2. Thickening Cervical Mucus:
- Both types of pills increase the thickness of cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach the egg.
3. Thinning the Endometrial Lining:
- The hormones in oral contraceptives cause the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to become thinner, which reduces the likelihood of implantation should fertilization occur.
Starting Oral Contraceptive Pills
Starting oral contraceptive pills typically involves a consultation with one of our healthcare providers, who will assess your health, medical history, and preferences to determine the best type of pill for you.
Combination Pills:
- These are usually started on the first day of the menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after the menstrual period begins. They are taken for 21 days, followed by a 7-day placebo period during which menstruation occurs. Some formulations may differ slightly in their schedules.
Progestin-Only Pills:
- These pills must be taken at the same time every day without a break. Consistency is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness.
Effectiveness and Adherence
The effectiveness of oral contraceptive pills depends on adherence to the prescribed regimen. Combination pills are about 99% effective with perfect use but around 91% effective with typical use, which accounts for occasional missed pills. Progestin-only pills have similar effectiveness but require more stringent adherence to daily dosing.
Side Effects and Management
While many women tolerate oral contraceptives well, some may experience side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness, weight gain, mood changes, and spotting between periods. These side effects often subside after the first few months of use. If they persist or become bothersome, consulting with Dr. Richard Lorenzo, DO, or Kortney Jones, ARNP, is important. We may recommend a different formulation or another birth control method.
Filling Your Prescription
Filling your prescription involves several steps:
- Consultation: We will prescribe the appropriate pill based on your health and preferences.
- Pharmacy Fill: You can fill the prescription at a pharmacy, with options for automatic refills and mail delivery to ensure continuity.
- Insurance and Costs: Most health insurance plans cover birth control pills, but costs can vary without insurance. Exploring discount programs can help manage costs.
Regular Follow-Up
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Richard Lorenzo, DO, or Kortney Jones, ARNP, are crucial to ensure the chosen method is working well for you and to address any concerns or side effects. These appointments also provide an opportunity to discuss any changes in your health that might necessitate a change in your contraceptive method.
Conclusion
Oral contraceptive pills are a reliable and widely used method of birth control that work through the prevention of ovulation, thickening of cervical mucus, and thinning of the uterine lining. Adherence to the prescribed regimen and regular consultations with our healthcare providers are key to maximizing their effectiveness and managing any side effects. Always consult with Dr. Richard Lorenzo, DO, or Kortney Jones, ARNP, to determine the best contraceptive method for your individual needs and ensure you have the appropriate support and follow-up care.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 509-392-6700.
Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology Richard Lorenzo, D.O. Kortney Jones, ARNP
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