In the UK oral contraceptives are used by 3.5 million women. Oral contraceptives come in many different forms; in fact there are 32 different types. Some of the most popular are Microgynon, Cerelle and Cerazette. Did you know you can get your prescription and buy Cerazette online as well as most other types of oral contraceptives?
There are pros and cons to taking oral contraceptives. As with all medication it’s important to discuss your needs with your doctor.
Pros of oral contraceptives
There are a number of benefits of the pill which go beyond its original intention to prevent pregnancy. Taken every day, the combined and mini pills are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Reduces pain of endometriosis
Research suggests that the pill can reduce pain associated with endometriosis.
As the contraceptive pill often makes your period lighter, or in the case of the mini pill can stop periods altogether, it inhibits the growth of endometrial implants which cause endometriosis.
Helps with PCOS
The hormones in the pill help to adjust the hormone imbalance that causes PCOS which can help reduce and in some cases eliminate symptoms.
Can reduce period pain
The pill reduces the thickness of the lining of your womb which means it also reduces the amount of prostaglandin your body. You experience high levels of prostaglandin during your period and this is what causes period pain, so reduced levels means less pain.
Reduces risk of some cancers
One study in 2010 highlighted that taking the pill reduces the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers by around 20% for every five years you take it. The risk is slashed by 50% after taking it for fifteen years.
Cons of oral contraceptives
There are some risks in taking oral contraceptives, but these tend to be minimal,
Link to blood clots for smokers
There’s a slightly increased risk of blood clots in taking the contraceptive pill, however if you smoke there’s a greater risk. You can get smoking advice from your local smoking cessation clinic, which can help you cut down or stop smoking and this will reduce the risk.
Increased risk of stroke in some women
If you’ve experienced migraines in the past, there can be a slight increased risk of stroke. Taking a progestogen only pill like Cerazette will reduce the risk of this. You can buy Cerazette online easily.
Increased risk of migraines with combined pill
Studies have shown that pills with higher levels of oestrogen are more likely to trigger migraines. Pills with lower levels of oestrogen tend to be a better alternative in these cases.
Sources:
Women’s Health Mag – The awesome benefits of contraceptives
Emed expert – Birth control advantages and disadvantages
Endometriosis.org – The Pill
NHS UK – Period Pain
US National Library of Medicine/National Institute of Health – Study on hormonal contraceptive and its protective role against ovarian and endometrial cancer
