Most birth control pills contain two main ingredients: the hormones estrogen and progestin. Estrogen helps regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain reproductive health, while progestin prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and reduces fertility. Two common types of birth control pills are combination pills (containing both estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only pills, suitable for women who cannot take estrogen.

You need to consult an obstetrician and gynecologist to choose a birth control pill that is suitable for your health condition. Medicines can affect women’s health and physiology in many different ways depending on the type of medicine and each person’s constitution. Some possible effects include:

Body and circulatory disorders: Combined oral contraceptives easily cause some side effects such as bleeding, breast pain, headache, nausea, bloating, and increased blood pressure. These symptoms usually gradually decrease after a period of use. However, drug abuse also increases the risk of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, and liver disorders. If you experience serious symptoms such as stomach pain, chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe headache or mood changes, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Mood changes: Some medications alter mood, causing feelings of anxiety or depression that affect sexual arousal.

Changes in menstrual cycle: Many women find their menstrual cycles are more regular when using birth control pills. However, some people experience stomach pain or bleeding between periods.

Vaginal dryness: Using birth control pills can lead to vaginal dryness, making sex difficult. This can reduce comfort and desire.

When using birth control pills and you notice side effects affecting your health or psychology, you should notify your doctor for timely advice. You can consider other methods such as using condoms or getting an IUD. Talking openly with your partner about the effects of birth control pills helps you both find a better solution.

 

Doctor of Obstetrics Department, Tam Anh General Hospital, District 8 advises on contraception. Image: Hospital provided

To maintain physiological and mental health, you should balance your daily life with a reasonable diet, regular exercise, and stress control. These activities help promote overall health and assist in maintaining stable hormone levels.

You should periodically check your reproductive health, monitor the effects of medication and adjust when necessary. Supplementing natural essences such as Lepidium Meyenii containing amino acids, sterols, alkaloid groups, glucosinate groups… helps the body produce hormones according to needs, thereby enhancing physiological health.

By Editor