Hormones as a protection against unwanted pregnancy began to be used in the 60's of last century. Alas, around this method of protection is a huge number of myths. So is it worth it to drink hormonal contraceptives or should they be better off? Shall we figure it out?
HOW DO THEY WORK?
It is known that hormonal contraceptives act on the principle of "imaginary pregnancy": in the female body there is no ovulation, that is, the ovaries do not secrete eggs that can be fertilized. In addition, hormonal preparations thicken the mucus in the cervix and change the structure of the inner shell of the uterus. This prevents penetration of spermatozoa and prevents the egg from gaining a foothold in the uterus.
This method of protection has a lot of advantages. If you follow the instructions for use, the degree of protection against unwanted pregnancy is very high - from 97 to 100%. In addition, hormonal contraceptives have healing properties: they help fight PMS, menstruation becomes more regular, less abundant and painful. They reduce the risk of developing certain diseases, for example, cancer of the ovaries and uterus, contribute to the prevention of many women's problems, reduce the likelihood of anemia. They are often used to treat serious diseases - uterine fibroids, mastopathy, endometriosis. Some contraceptives contend that hormonal contraceptives are definitely worth drinking. After all, competently selected, they bring the woman's body benefits and even help delay the menopause. Hormonal contraceptives allow the ovaries to "rest", and their reserve increases.
MINUS SIGN"
However, often the reception of hormonal drugs is manifested by a mass of side effects. Against their backdrop, diseases that the woman did not even suspect would become more acute. The most frequent side effects are manifested in the form of engorgement of the mammary glands, morning sickness, intermenstrual bleeding. Many complain about weight changes, frequent mood swings and permanent depression. According to experts, these side effects are usually not dangerous and, if the drug is chosen correctly, usually take place within two to three months.
Another tangible negative: use of hormonal contraceptives is necessary according to a strictly defined scheme, and it can not be violated. Any mistake can lead to an unplanned pregnancy or serious malfunctions of the menstrual cycle.
BY THE OTHER WAY
Usually, when talking about hormonal contraception, they mean oral contraceptives. Psychologists believe that the daily intake of contraceptive pills is suitable for women who love stability and the feeling that everything is under control. If you often forget to take even ordinary multivitamins, this method of contraception will not work for you. But in addition to pills, there are other hormonal means of preventing unwanted pregnancies, for example, a contraceptive patch, a vaginal ring or a hormonal intrauterine device. The hormones contained in them enter the body in other ways - through the skin, vagina or uterus. They are also able to suppress ovulation and complicate the life of spermatozoa. Often the daily dose of a hormone in them is so small that they have only a local contraceptive effect and are devoid of many side effects peculiar to hormonal tablets. So, much less affect our blood system, blood pressure, weight and liver.
IMPORTANT!
Never without consulting a doctor does not decide whether it is worthwhile to postpone the consumption of hormonal drugs or even stop at the middle of the cycle. This is fraught with serious violations of the cycle.
The effectiveness of oral contraceptives reduces antibiotics, antiallergic and antidepressant agents.
Take hormonal contraceptives only with water. Other drinks (grapefruit juice, etc.) reduce the contraceptive effect.
If you experience vomiting or an intestinal disorder, the pill taken on this day loses its effect.
MYTHS ON HORMONAL CONTRACEPTION
Myth 1. Admission of hormonal tablets leads to infertility
The active substance, which is a part of the drug, is excreted from the body within 36 hours. Therefore, already in the first cycle after the abolition of the contraceptive, ovulation may occur, which means that conception is possible.
Myth 2. I will become fat
The very first birth control pills contained a high dose of hormones and could cause an increase in body weight. Modern tablets do not influence weight in any way. Therefore, choose oral contraceptives, which were created after 2000.
Myth 3. Skin problems
Modern contraceptives, on the contrary, help to eliminate the negative effects of the hormone testosterone, the culprit of acne, hirsutism (excess hair growth) and increased skin fatness, and therefore improve the condition of the skin and hair.
Myth 4. Hormonal contraceptives can not be used by young girls
Contraceptives of the new generation are not contraindicated for young girls. However, it is better to start their reception after 21 years.
Myth 5. One and the same drug can not be used for a long time
It is not necessary to take breaks in taking modern hormonal means. They can take a long time - up to 5 years.