Numerous generic medicines in the Philippines can be bought in pharmacies. They are used to treat various illness people experience in their body. However, not all of them are used as such; some of them are in fact taken as a preventive measure. Contraceptive pills are the perfect example of these.
For a long time, the issue of contraception has been made controversial because of the country’s religious beliefs. But its discussion was never banned and so this article aims to tackle all the things you need to learn about these pills should you wish to take them in the future.
How do contraceptive pills work?
Contraceptive pills contain tiny amounts of progestin and estrogen. Once taken, both hormones will naturally disrupt the natural cycle of your body in order to prevent pregnancy. They will aim to stop a woman’s ovulation process so that the egg will not be released from the ovary and therefore will not be fertilized.
How often should you take contraceptives?
Taking these pills is a little bit tricky because you will have to be strict in taking them every single day. Plus, you have to ingest them at the same time daily. This is why it is advised for you to take them before your bedtime so you are always on time and have a lesser chance of forgetting it.
In case, you forget. You can take two pills the next day. Keep in mind that the more you skip it; the more likely you are to get pregnant.
What are the different kinds of contraceptives?
Basically, there are two kinds of contraceptives: the first one contains estrogen and progestin and the second which only has progestin (also known as the mini pills). A number of doctors and gynecologists are prescribing the latter because estrogen usually doesn’t suit women.
But you shouldn’t decide which one should you take yourself, ask an expert so you don’t experience future problems while taking birth control pills.
Will birth control pills protect you from STDs?
The answer to this important question is no. Birth control pills do not protect you from any kind of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). This is why some people still partner them up with the use of other contraceptives like condom to ensure they will not acquire any of these diseases.
Are you going to put on weight?
In the past, birth control pills contain more estrogen, which naturally causes women to eat more and eventually gain more weight. But science and technology has improved since and have produced pills with lesser estrogen content. As a result, you are less likely to gain more weight. If you do, this side effect would disappear within 2-3 months.
Will contraceptive pills affect your period?
The pills are going to control your ovulation cycle itself. This means that your period will stay on schedule. It would no longer be jumping all over the place; you can even track it using a smartphone app that can monitor your period to see if it’s working.
Are birth control pills for everyone?
Truthfully speaking, there are birth control pills out there that have side effects such as swollen legs, severe migraines, fatigue, anxiety, mood swings, and depression. If you experience any of these, don’t ignore them because it means they are not suited for you. You can always check with a doctor or a gynecologist and ask their opinion about which contraceptive pill is best suited for you.
Remember to always consult an expert before taking a contraceptive pill. Think about it carefully before you decide to take them.