Estrogen-Progestin Contraceptives: Advantages, Disadvantages and Risks
As a family physician and medical director of French origin, having completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec, it's essential for me to inform my patients about the various contraception options available. Estrogen-progestin contraceptives, often referred to as combination pills, are a widely used method of contraception. This article aims to explain their advantages, disadvantages and associated risks.
Benefits of estrogen-progestin contraceptives
1Effectiveness: When used correctly, estrogen-progestin contraceptives are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with a failure rate of less than 1% per year.
2Menstrual Cycle Regulation: They help regulate menstrual cycles, reducing menstrual pain and heavy bleeding.
3Acne Reduction: For some women, these pills can help reduce acne by regulating the hormones responsible for excess sebum.
4Prevention of certain diseases: Estrogen-progestin contraceptives can reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer, as well as ovarian cysts.
Disadvantages of estrogen-progestin contraceptives
Side effects: Some women may experience nausea, headaches, breast tenderness or mood swings.
2.must be taken daily: to maintain their efficacy, these pills must be taken at the same time every day, which can be restrictive for some women.
3Drug Interactions: Certain drugs can reduce the efficacy of estrogen-progestin contraceptives, requiring extra vigilance.
4Cost: Depending on where you live and the healthcare system, the cost of contraceptives may vary and may not always be covered by health insurance.
Risks associated with estrogen-progestin contraceptives
Side effects: Some women may experience nausea, headaches, breast tenderness or mood swings.
2.must be taken daily: to maintain their efficacy, these pills must be taken daily at virtually the same time, which can be restrictive for some women.
3Drug Interactions: Certain drugs can reduce the efficacy of estrogen-progestin contraceptives, requiring extra vigilance.
4Cost: Depending on where you live and the healthcare system, the cost of contraceptives may vary and may not always be covered by health insurance.
5Protection against STBBIs: Estrogen-progestin contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs). Only condoms offer protection against STIs.
Risks associated with estrogen-progestin contraceptives
1.venous thrombosis: one of the most serious risks is the formation of blood clots, particularly in women who smoke or have a family history of thrombosis.
2.strokes and heart attacks: Although rare, estrogen-progestin contraceptives can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack, especially in women with other risk factors such as high blood pressure or poor circulation.
3Breast Cancer: Some studies suggest a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer in users of estrogen-progestin contraceptives, although this risk seems to decrease after stopping the pill.
4Hypertension: The use of estrogen-progestin contraceptives can sometimes lead to an increase in blood pressure, requiring regular monitoring.
5Hepatic risks: Use of estrogen-progestin contraceptives may be associated with liver disorders, including increased liver enzymes, cholestatic jaundice and, in rare cases, benign or malignant liver tumours.
Conclusion
Estrogen-progestin contraceptives offer many advantages in terms of contraception and menstrual health, but they are not without drawbacks and risks. It's crucial to discuss your medical history and personal needs with your family physician to determine if this contraceptive method is the best option for you. As a healthcare professional, I'm here to help you make this choice and answer any questions you may have.
For more information or to book an appointment, please visit allodocteur.ca.
This article is intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing your contraceptive method.
