What are the consequences of hormonal drugs? Specifics of hormonal agents

Oral contraception is considered the most effective method of preventing unwanted pregnancy. Every year, new contraceptive drugs are developed that have virtually no side effects. But many women, knowing the consequences of taking birth control pills, prefer other methods of contraception. They explain this choice by their reluctance to get health problems and interfere with the body’s natural hormonal processes.

A gynecologist will help you choose a method of contraception on an individual basis.

The effectiveness of taking oral contraceptives in preventing unwanted conception is undeniable. Therefore, before categorically rejecting such a method of protection, it is necessary to carefully weigh the pros and cons. Modern oral contraceptive pills have the minimum possible list of side effects, so their effectiveness is much higher and more significant than the unpleasant consequences. As a rule, COCs correct the hormonal status of patients, however, such changes almost always benefit women.

1. The mechanism of action of the tablets is realized at the cellular level, because gestagens and estrogens block receptor functions in a woman’s reproductive structures. As a result of this effect, ovulation is inhibited. Due to a decrease in the production of pituitary hormones (FSH and LH), the maturation and development of female germ cells is suppressed.
2. Contraceptives also affect the uterine body, more precisely, its internal endometrial layer, in which a kind of atrophy occurs. Therefore, if it happens that a female cell nevertheless matures, leaves the ovary and is fertilized, then it will no longer be able to implant into the uterine endometrium.
3. In addition, oral contraceptive pills change the properties of cervical mucus, increasing its viscosity. Due to such changes, the uterine cavity is protected from the penetration of sperm into it.
4. COCs also affect the fallopian tubes, reducing their contractile capabilities, which significantly complicates the passage of the germ cell through these channels, making it almost impossible.

The effect of oral contraception is most clearly expressed in ovulatory inhibition. These drugs lead to the creation of a new, artificial monthly cycle in the female body, and they suppress the normal, natural one. In fact, the reproductive system functions according to a feedback mechanism, when pituitary hormones are produced due to a decrease in estrogen-progestogen production. That is, if a sufficient amount of progestin and estrogen hormones enters the body from the outside, the pituitary gland stops producing tropic hormonal substances. As a result, the growth and development of female germ cells stops.

You should not take any medications yourself, as this can cause irreparable harm to your health.

It is impossible to say for sure how much the patient’s hormonal background will change while taking oral contraception, since the body is individual. The degree of changes depends on the amount of adipose tissue and weight, as well as on the content of SSG (sex-binding globulin) in the blood, which is responsible for binding and transporting estradiol and testosterone. It is not advisable to conduct studies of estrogens and progesterone hormones when taking oral contraceptives. When taking high-dose contraceptives, the patient’s hormonal background acquires “pregnant” indicators, but if low-dose drugs were taken, then these indicators will still be higher than normal, but lower than when carrying a child.

The effect of oral contraception on the patient’s body

As a rule, when any hormonal substance enters the body, the activity of the entire system malfunctions, connections and interactions between intraorganic structures and glandular organs are disrupted. As a result, the processes of stress resistance, immune defense and self-regulation lose stability, and immune endocrine and nervous system structures begin to function in a hyper-stress mode. Amid such intense activity, a disruption soon occurs.

Instead of interacting optimally and productively with each other, internal organs and glandular structures establish artificial, rough connections that function forcedly. That is, the body is subjected to functional violence. If the patient takes any hormonal medications, the intrasecreting glands stop producing these hormones on their own. It is quite understandable why do extra work if the hormone is present in the body in the required quantities. If such a picture does not last long, then everything is still fixable, but with a long-term disturbance, drying out of the glandular body can occur, its atrophy, and, accordingly, problems arise in the functioning of all structures that depend on this gland.

Under the influence of taking oral contraceptive drugs, a woman’s normal monthly cycle disappears. The patient regularly experiences withdrawal bleeding, however, it has nothing to do with menstruation, since the woman actually does not have a menstrual cycle. The female cycle is very sensitive to intraorganic changes; it is the cyclical nature of processes in the body that ensures the full functioning of all systems, and not only reproductive ones.

If there is a disorder in the functioning of organs and systems in the body, then the body will need a lot of effort to maintain normal functioning. As a result, all systems get used to working hard under stress. When taking contraceptives for a long time and constantly, you cannot count on maintaining a normal female cycle in the future.

What consequences may arise if canceled?

Almost every woman knows about the potential harm of birth control pills. But today, pharmaceutical companies are massively promoting drugs from the mini-pill category among young girls and women. The annotation states that they contain only small doses of progesterone hormone, so there is no need to worry about adverse reactions such as serious hormonal imbalance when taking them. But this is not true at all.

Attention! Mini-pills do not in any way guarantee the absence of adverse reactions, and their mechanism of action is practically no different from COCs. As a result of taking these “safe” contraceptives, the body receives a signal about the state of pregnancy for a long time. And all the time. But the female body does not have such resources to be able to bear a child for several years.

While taking the mini-pill, egg maturation and conception are also blocked, the production of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones is suppressed, which negatively affects the activity of other endocrine glands. If you look at the problem from the other side, the use of contraceptives can have both negative and positive consequences.

Positive

Properly selected pills have a beneficial effect on the female body

Positive effects when taking contraceptive pills include the absence of ovulation. Over the course of a month, the uterine body prepares to receive the egg, but it does not mature. Normally, when menstruation occurs, there is a sharp drop in hormonal levels, which is a stress factor for the body. When taking COC drugs, ovulation does not occur, the ovaries rest, so the uterus is not subject to monthly stress.

Another positive aspect of taking contraceptive pills is the absence of hormonal surges, which ensures the elimination of PMS, which is also closely associated with strong fluctuations in hormonal levels. The absence of premenstrual syndrome ensures a woman’s nervous system stability, eliminating the likelihood of conflicts that often occur against the background of PMS.

According to many gynecologists, hormonal contraception allows you to regulate your periods. Yes, when taking COCs, monthly bleeding actually becomes regular, and its abundance and duration are noticeably reduced. In addition, oral contraceptives minimize the risk of developing ovarian and uterine tumor processes and reduce the frequency of inflammatory pathologies.

It cannot be denied that taking pills that prevent conception prevents the development of osteoporosis, which develops against the background of estrogen deficiency. COCs do contain estrogen. In addition, COCs have a therapeutic effect against pathologies caused by androgen excess. Contraceptives suppress androgen secretion, eliminating fairly common problems such as acne, alopecia, oily skin or hirsutism.

Negative

As for the undesirable consequences of using oral contraception, they are generally due to the estrogen effect on the female body. Taking these drugs does not cause pathologies, however, they can provoke various exacerbations and complications of existing predispositions to certain hormone-dependent diseases. Although, if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, limit alcohol and give up cigarettes, then the negative consequences of taking contraception will be minimal. Such consequences include:

Such reactions are not obligatory and do not occur in all patients. If some of them do arise, they usually neutralize on their own after a couple of months, until the body gets used to the drugs being taken.

Is it possible to become dependent on COCs?

With uncontrolled and long-term use of hormonal contraceptives, ovarian atrophy can develop, which will only progress over time. Against the background of such a complication, a woman will not be able to give up oral contraceptives, as she will become dependent on them. Hormonal substances of synthetic origin are so naturally integrated into intraorganic metabolic processes that they suppress the activity of glandular organs. Therefore, if you refuse hormonal contraception, the body will begin to experience an acute deficiency of hormonal substances, which is much more dangerous than taking COCs. It’s just that the body, or more precisely, its glands, have forgotten how to function fully, so the abolition of contraceptives becomes a serious problem for many girls.

As a result, women continue to take contraceptives, not so much to prevent conception (it becomes impossible due to ovarian atrophy), but to avoid the onset of rapid and early aging of the body. Therefore, when deciding on the use of hormonal oral contraception, it is necessary to contact a highly qualified specialist who will competently select the drug and determine the safe timing of its use. Self-prescription of such medications can result in irreversible consequences.

Should I take contraceptive pills or not?

Undoubtedly, every girl/woman must decide for herself whether to take hormonal contraceptives or not. If you have already decided to use oral contraceptives for a while, then you need to select pills only according to the recommendations of a practicing gynecologist, and not at your own request. Before taking COCs, it is imperative to undergo an examination, take a smear and blood test, and undergo ultrasound diagnostics for possible tumor processes. Only based on the tests will the doctor be able to select the right drug.

From previous publications we know about the abortifacient effect of hormonal contraceptives (GC, OK). Recently in the media you can find reviews of women who suffered from the side effects of OK, we will give a couple of them at the end of the article. To shed light on this issue, we turned to a doctor who prepared this information for the ABC of Health and also translated for us fragments of articles with foreign studies on the side effects of GCs.

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives.

The actions of hormonal contraceptives, like other medications, are determined by the properties of the substances they contain. Most birth control pills prescribed for routine contraception contain 2 types of hormones: one gestagen and one estrogen.

Gestagens

Progestogens = progestogens = progestins- hormones that are produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries (a formation on the surface of the ovaries that appears after ovulation - the release of the egg), in small quantities - by the adrenal cortex, and during pregnancy - by the placenta. The main gestagen is progesterone.

The name of the hormones reflects their main function - “pro gestation” = “to [maintain] pregnancy” by restructuring the endothelium of the uterus into the state necessary for the development of a fertilized egg. The physiological effects of gestagens are combined into three main groups.

1. Vegetative effects. It is expressed in the suppression of endometrial proliferation caused by the action of estrogens and its secretory transformation, which is very important for a normal menstrual cycle. When pregnancy occurs, gestagens suppress ovulation, lower the tone of the uterus, reducing its excitability and contractility (“protector” of pregnancy). Progestins are responsible for the “maturation” of the mammary glands.
2. Generative action. In small doses, progestins increase the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is responsible for the maturation of follicles in the ovary and ovulation. In large doses, gestagens block both FSH and LH (luteinizing hormone, which is involved in the synthesis of androgens, and together with FSH ensures ovulation and progesterone synthesis). Gestagens affect the thermoregulation center, which is manifested by an increase in temperature.
3. General action. Under the influence of gestagens, amine nitrogen in the blood plasma decreases, the excretion of amino acids increases, the secretion of gastric juice increases, and the secretion of bile slows down.

Oral contraceptives contain various gestagens. For some time it was believed that there was no difference between progestins, but it is now certain that the difference in molecular structure provides a variety of effects. In other words, progestogens differ in spectrum and in the severity of additional properties, but the 3 groups of physiological effects described above are inherent to all of them. The characteristics of modern progestins are reflected in the table.

Pronounced or very pronounced gestagenic effect common to all progestogens. The gestagenic effect refers to those main groups of properties that were mentioned earlier.

Androgenic activity characteristic of not many drugs, its result is a decrease in the amount of “good” cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) and an increase in the concentration of “bad” cholesterol (LDL cholesterol). As a result, the risk of developing atherosclerosis increases. In addition, symptoms of virilization (male secondary sexual characteristics) appear.

Explicit antiandrogenic effect only three drugs have it. This effect has a positive meaning - improvement in skin condition (cosmetic side of the issue).

Antimineralocorticoid activity associated with increased diuresis, sodium excretion, and decreased blood pressure.

Glucocorticoid effect affects metabolism: the body's sensitivity to insulin decreases (risk of diabetes), the synthesis of fatty acids and triglycerides increases (risk of obesity).

Estrogens

Another component of birth control pills is estrogens.

Estrogens– female sex hormones that are produced by the ovarian follicles and the adrenal cortex (and in men also by the testicles). There are three main estrogens: estradiol, estriol, estrone.

Physiological effects of estrogens:

- proliferation (growth) of the endometrium and myometrium according to the type of their hyperplasia and hypertrophy;

— development of genital organs and secondary sexual characteristics (feminization);

- suppression of lactation;

- inhibition of resorption (destruction, resorption) of bone tissue;

- procoagulant effect (increased blood clotting);

- increasing the content of HDL (“good” cholesterol) and triglycerides, reducing the amount of LDL (“bad” cholesterol);

- retention of sodium and water in the body (and, as a result, increased blood pressure);

— ensuring an acidic vaginal environment (normal pH 3.8-4.5) and the growth of lactobacilli;

- increased antibody production and phagocyte activity, increasing the body's resistance to infections.

Estrogens in oral contraceptives are needed to control the menstrual cycle; they do not take part in protection against unwanted pregnancy. Most often, the tablets contain ethinyl estradiol (EE).

Mechanisms of action of oral contraceptives

So, taking into account the basic properties of gestagens and estrogens, the following mechanisms of action of oral contraceptives can be distinguished:

1) inhibition of the secretion of gonadotropic hormones (due to gestagens);

2) a change in vaginal pH to a more acidic side (the influence of estrogens);

3) increased viscosity of cervical mucus (gestagens);

4) the phrase “ovum implantation” used in instructions and manuals, which hides the abortive effect of GC from women.

Commentary by a gynecologist on the abortifacient mechanism of action of hormonal contraceptives

When implanted into the wall of the uterus, the embryo is a multicellular organism (blastocyst). An egg (even a fertilized one) is never implanted. Implantation occurs 5-7 days after fertilization. Therefore, what is called an egg in the instructions is in fact not an egg at all, but an embryo.

Unwanted estrogen...

In the course of a thorough study of hormonal contraceptives and their effects on the body, it was concluded that undesirable effects are associated to a greater extent with the influence of estrogens. Therefore, the lower the amount of estrogen in the tablet, the fewer side effects, but it is not possible to completely eliminate them. It was precisely these conclusions that prompted scientists to invent new, more advanced drugs, and oral contraceptives, in which the amount of the estrogen component was measured in milligrams, were replaced by tablets containing estrogen in micrograms ( 1 milligram [ mg] = 1000 micrograms [ mcg]). There are currently 3 generations of birth control pills. The division into generations is due to both a change in the amount of estrogens in the drugs and the introduction of newer progesterone analogues into the tablets.

The first generation of contraceptives include Enovid, Infekundin, Bisekurin. These drugs have been widely used since their discovery, but later their androgenic effects were noticed, manifested in deepening of the voice, growth of facial hair (virilization).

Second generation drugs include Microgenon, Rigevidon, Triregol, Triziston and others.

The most frequently used and widespread drugs are the third generation: Logest, Merisilon, Regulon, Novinet, Diane-35, Zhanin, Yarina and others. A significant advantage of these drugs is their antiandrogenic activity, most pronounced in Diane-35.

The study of the properties of estrogens and the conclusion that they are the main source of side effects from the use of hormonal contraceptives led scientists to the idea of ​​​​creating drugs with an optimal reduction in the dose of estrogens in them. It is impossible to completely remove estrogens from the composition, since they play an important role in maintaining a normal menstrual cycle.

In this regard, a division of hormonal contraceptives into high-, low- and micro-dose drugs has appeared.

Highly dosed (EE = 40-50 mcg per tablet).

• "Non-ovlon"
• "Ovidon" and others
• Not used for contraceptive purposes.

Low dosage (EE = 30-35 mcg per tablet).

• "Marvelon"
• "Janine"
• "Yarina"
• "Femoden"
• "Diane-35" and others

Microdosed (EE = 20 mcg per tablet)

• "Logest"
• "Mersilon"
• "Novinet"
• "Miniziston 20 fem" "Jess" and others

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives

Side effects from the use of oral contraceptives are always described in detail in the instructions for use.

Since the side effects from the use of various birth control pills are approximately the same, it makes sense to consider them, highlighting the main (severe) and less severe.

Some manufacturers list conditions that require immediate discontinuation of use if they occur. These conditions include the following:

1. Arterial hypertension.
2. Hemolytic-uremic syndrome, manifested by a triad of symptoms: acute renal failure, hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count).
3. Porphyria is a disease in which hemoglobin synthesis is impaired.
4. Hearing loss caused by otosclerosis (fixation of the auditory ossicles, which should normally be mobile).

Almost all manufacturers list thromboembolism as a rare or very rare side effect. But this serious condition deserves special attention.

Thromboembolism is a blockage of a blood vessel by a thrombus. This is an acute condition that requires qualified assistance. Thromboembolism cannot occur out of the blue; it requires special “conditions” - risk factors or existing vascular diseases.

Risk factors for thrombosis (formation of blood clots inside vessels - thrombi - interfering with the free, laminar flow of blood):

— age over 35 years;

- smoking (!);

- high level of estrogen in the blood (which occurs when taking oral contraceptives);

- increased blood clotting, which is observed with a deficiency of antithrombin III, proteins C and S, dysfibrinogenemia, Marchiafava-Michelli disease;

- injuries and extensive operations in the past;

- venous stasis with a sedentary lifestyle;

- obesity;

- varicose veins of the legs;

- damage to the valvular apparatus of the heart;

- atrial fibrillation, angina pectoris;

- diseases of the cerebral vessels (including transient ischemic attack) or coronary vessels;

- moderate or severe arterial hypertension;

— connective tissue diseases (collagenosis), and primarily systemic lupus erythematosus;

- hereditary predisposition to thrombosis (thrombosis, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident in close blood relatives).

If these risk factors are present, a woman taking hormonal birth control pills has a significantly increased risk of developing thromboembolism. The risk of thromboembolism increases with thrombosis of any location, either currently present or suffered in the past; in case of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Thromboembolism, whatever its location, is a serious complication.

In addition to thromboembolism, there are other, less severe, but still inconvenient side effects. For example, candidiasis (thrush). Hormonal contraceptives increase the acidity of the vagina, and fungi reproduce well in an acidic environment, in particular Candidaalbicans, which is a conditionally pathogenic microorganism.

A significant side effect is the retention of sodium, and with it water, in the body. This may lead to swelling and weight gain. Decreased tolerance to carbohydrates, as a side effect of the use of hormonal pills, increases the risk of developing diabetes mellitus

Other side effects, such as: decreased mood, mood swings, increased appetite, nausea, stool disorders, satiety, swelling and tenderness of the mammary glands and some others - although not severe, however, affect a woman’s quality of life.

In addition to side effects, the instructions for the use of hormonal contraceptives list contraindications.

Contraceptives without estrogen

Exist progestin-containing contraceptives (“mini-pill”). Judging by the name, they contain only gestagen. But this group of drugs has its own indications:

- contraception for nursing women (they should not be prescribed estrogen-progestin drugs, because estrogen suppresses lactation);

— prescribed for women who have given birth (since the main mechanism of action of the “mini-pill” is suppression of ovulation, which is undesirable for nulliparous women);

- in late reproductive age;

- if there are contraindications to the use of estrogens.

In addition, these drugs also have side effects and contraindications.

Particular attention should be paid to " emergency contraception". These drugs contain either a progestin (Levonorgestrel) or an antiprogestin (Mifepristone) in a large dose. The main mechanisms of action of these drugs are inhibition of ovulation, thickening of cervical mucus, acceleration of desquamation (squamation) of the functional layer of the endometrium in order to prevent the attachment of a fertilized egg. And Mifepristone has an additional effect - increasing the tone of the uterus. Therefore, a single use of a large dose of these drugs has a very strong immediate effect on the ovaries; after taking emergency contraceptive pills, there can be serious and long-term disturbances in the menstrual cycle. Women who regularly use these drugs are at great risk to their health.

Foreign studies of side effects of GCs

Interesting studies examining the side effects of hormonal contraceptives have been conducted in foreign countries. Below are excerpts from several reviews (translation by the author of fragments of foreign articles)

Oral contraceptives and the risk of venous thrombosis

May, 2001

CONCLUSIONS

Hormonal contraception is used by more than 100 million women worldwide. The number of deaths from cardiovascular diseases (venous and arterial) among young, low-risk patients - non-smoking women from 20 to 24 years old - is observed worldwide in the range from 2 to 6 per year per million, depending on the region of residence expected cardiovascular -vascular risk and the volume of screening studies that were carried out before prescribing contraceptives. While the risk of venous thrombosis is more important in younger patients, the risk of arterial thrombosis is more relevant in older patients. Among older women who smoke and use oral contraceptives, the death rate ranges from 100 to just over 200 per million each year.

Reducing the dose of estrogen reduced the risk of venous thrombosis. Third-generation progestins in combined oral contraceptives have increased the incidence of adverse hemolytic changes and the risk of thrombus formation, so they should not be prescribed as first-choice drugs for new users of hormonal contraception.

The judicious use of hormonal contraceptives, including avoidance of their use by women who have risk factors, is absent in most cases. In New Zealand, a series of deaths from pulmonary embolism were investigated, and the cause was often due to a risk that doctors had not considered.

Judicious administration can prevent arterial thrombosis. Almost all women who had a myocardial infarction while using oral contraceptives were either older, smoked, or had other risk factors for arterial disease - in particular, arterial hypertension. Avoidance of oral contraceptives in these women may reduce the incidence of arterial thrombosis reported in recent studies from industrialized countries. The beneficial effect that third-generation oral contraceptives have on the lipid profile and their role in reducing the number of heart attacks and strokes has not yet been confirmed by control studies.

To avoid venous thrombosis, the doctor asks whether the patient has ever had venous thrombosis in the past to determine whether there are contraindications to the use of oral contraceptives, and what is the risk of thrombosis while taking hormonal medications.

Low-dose progestogen oral contraceptives (first or second generation) were associated with a lower risk of venous thrombosis than combination drugs; however, the risk in women with a history of thrombosis is unknown.

Obesity is considered a risk factor for venous thrombosis, but it is unknown whether this risk is increased by oral contraceptive use; thrombosis is rare among obese people. Obesity, however, is not considered a contraindication to the use of oral contraceptives. Superficial varices are not a consequence of pre-existing venous thrombosis or a risk factor for deep venous thrombosis.

Heredity may play a role in the development of venous thrombosis, but its significance as a high-risk factor remains unclear. A history of superficial thrombophlebitis can also be considered a risk factor for thrombosis, especially if it is combined with a family history.

Venous thromboembolism and hormonal contraception

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, UK

July, 2010

Do combined hormonal contraceptive methods (pills, patch, vaginal ring) increase the risk of venous thromboembolism?

The relative risk of venous thromboembolism increases with the use of any combined hormonal contraceptives (pills, patch and vaginal ring). However, the rarity of venous thromboembolism in women of reproductive age means that the absolute risk remains low.

The relative risk of venous thromboembolism increases in the first few months after starting combined hormonal contraception. As the duration of taking hormonal contraceptives increases, the risk decreases, but it remains as a background risk until you stop using hormonal drugs.

In this table, researchers compared the annual incidence of venous thromboembolism in different groups of women (per 100,000 women). It is clear from the table that in women who are not pregnant and do not use hormonal contraceptives (non-pregnant non-users), an average of 44 (with a range from 24 to 73) cases of thromboembolism per 100,000 women were registered per year.

Drospirenone-containingCOCusers – users of drospirenone-containing COCs.

Levonorgestrel-containingCOCusers – using levonorgestrel-containing COCs.

Other COCs not specified – other COCs.

Pregnantnon-users – pregnant women.

Strokes and heart attacks when using hormonal contraception

New England Journal of Medicine

Massachusetts Medical Society, USA

June, 2012

CONCLUSIONS

Although the absolute risks of stroke and heart attack associated with hormonal contraceptives are low, the risk increased from 0.9 to 1.7 with products containing 20 mcg ethinyl estradiol and from 1.2 to 2.3 with using drugs containing ethinyl estradiol in a dose of 30-40 mcg, with a relatively small difference in risk depending on the type of progestogen included in the composition.

Risk of thrombosis of oral contraception

WoltersKluwerHealth is a leading provider of expert health information.

HenneloreRott – German doctor

August, 2012

CONCLUSIONS

Different combined oral contraceptives (COCs) have different risks of venous thromboembolism, but the same unsafe use.

COCs with levonorgestrel or norethisterone (so-called second generation) should be the drugs of choice, as recommended by national contraceptive guidelines in the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Norway and the UK. Other European countries do not have such guidelines, but they are urgently needed.

In women with a history of venous thromboembolism and/or known coagulation defects, the use of COCs and other contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol is contraindicated. On the other hand, the risk of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and the postpartum period is much higher. For this reason, such women should be offered adequate contraception.

There is no reason to withhold hormonal contraception in young patients with thrombophilia. Pure progesterone preparations are safe with respect to the risk of venous thromboembolism.

Risk of venous thromboembolism among users of drospirenone-containing oral contraceptives

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

November 2012

CONCLUSIONS
The risk of venous thromboembolism is increased among oral contraceptive users (3-9/10,000 women per year) compared with non-pregnant and non-users (1-5/10,000 women per year). There is evidence that drospirenone-containing oral contraceptives have a higher risk (10.22/10,000) than drugs containing other progestins. However, the risk is still low and much lower than that during pregnancy (approximately 5-20/10,000 women per year) and in the postpartum period (40-65/10,000 women per year) (see table).

Table Risk of thromboembolism.

Hormonal contraception all over the world they are considered the most reliable in terms of protection against unwanted pregnancy. They are trusted by millions of women in civilized countries. They give freedom to choose the time of birth of the desired child, emancipation in sexual relationships, and relief from certain diseases and suffering. Subject to the rules of use hormonal contraceptives provide, without a doubt, a high level of reliability. In the last decade, interest in this method of contraception has also increased in our country, but passions about the benefits and harms, advantages and disadvantages of their use do not subside.

How birth control pills work

Combined contraceptives are divided into drugs:

• with microdoses of hormones;
• with low doses;
• medium dose;
• with high doses of hormones.

How do birth control pills work?

The action of the “mini-pill” is based on the same principles, but the effective point here is the effect of the tablets on the structure of the uterine mucosa, and on the change in the viscosity of the secretion of the cervical canal. Thickening of the secretion and looseness of the endometrium does not allow sperm to fertilize the egg, and the egg itself does not allow itself to gain a foothold in the uterus.

All these phenomena disappear when you stop taking contraceptives. Reproductive function is restored within two to three months, and the woman can have the desired pregnancy.

Birth control pills are almost 100% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly. At the same time, the use of these products regulates the menstrual cycle, relieves women from pain during menstruation and menstrual bleeding. Modern contraceptives eliminate the symptoms of premenstrual and menopausal periods, reduce the risk of cancer, stop unwanted facial hair growth, and the appearance of acne.

Does the effect of birth control pills decrease with alcohol consumption?

I would like to always be confident in the effectiveness of contraceptives, and to know what factors can reduce it. It is unlikely that anyone will be able to completely eliminate alcohol. And the instructions for contraceptive drugs often do not indicate that they cannot be combined with alcohol intake.

What to do if a festive feast is planned? If the celebration is scheduled for the evening, then taking the pill should be shifted three hours earlier or later. As a last resort, you can reschedule taking the pill until the morning, as if you forgot to take it, but then you need to follow the instructions for the drug exactly according to it. It is also necessary to see a gynecologist to rule out pregnancy.

According to WHO, the dose of alcohol should not exceed 20 mg of ethanol per day, if the need arises in combination with birth control pills. Moderation in drinking alcohol plays a big role in maintaining the effectiveness of contraceptives.

Side effects

• Bloody spotting, especially common when starting to take the pills. After adaptation to the drug, as a rule, they disappear.
• Estrogens included in contraceptives can cause bloating, swelling of the lower extremities, fluid retention in the body, increased blood pressure, and migraine-like headaches.
• Progestins, on the contrary, cause irritability, nervousness, acne, and some weight gain.
• Weight gain may be associated with increased appetite when taking contraceptives. In some cases, this is due to fluid retention in the body.
• Sometimes birth control pills can cause dark spots to appear on the face, similar to those characteristic of pregnancy. In this case, it is better to switch to another type of tablet.
• Such dangerous vascular diseases as thrombosis can be caused. Their occurrence depends entirely on the dose of hormones in the product. The higher the dose of estrogen, the greater the risk of developing vascular thrombosis.
• Smoking is prohibited while taking some contraceptives. Women who smoke are at risk of developing heart attacks and strokes.
• Taking combined oral contraceptives can cause attacks of gallstones and cause the formation of new stones in the bile ducts.
• Side effects may occur when oral contraceptives are combined with other medications: antibiotics, antifungals, etc.

Which birth control pills help you get better?

But, if the drug is chosen incorrectly for a particular woman or girl, some weight gain is quite possible. Many women experience weight gain in the first two months of taking contraceptives, which is easily explained by the body’s adaptation. If your weight increases in the future, then you need to decide on switching to another type of pill.

The effect of contraceptives on fat metabolism has been well studied. Therefore, it is possible for each woman to choose a remedy that would not cause the above side effects.

Bleeding while taking birth control pills

Spotting bleeding occurs in the first months of taking contraceptives. They are more often observed when using drugs with low hormone content than when using combined drugs. The reason is this: microdoses of hormones in the pill do not have time to accumulate in the body, and they are not enough to delay menstruation. This is a normal phenomenon, and it is not advisable to stop taking pills due to the appearance of spotting. The body will adapt and all functions will be restored.

If breakthrough bleeding occurs, the alarm should be sounded. It is better to immediately consult a doctor who will conduct an examination to exclude ectopic pregnancy, inflammatory diseases, uterine fibroids, and endometriosis.

What to do if bleeding occurs:

• Continue taking birth control as usual, or stop taking it within seven days.
• Contact the doctor. Your doctor may prescribe additional high-progestin pills.
• If bleeding continues, a blood test must be taken to rule out anemia. For anemia, iron supplements are prescribed.

Vaginal discharge

By the way, vaginal discharge is found in every woman, but normally it is odorless, transparent in appearance and insignificant.

If your menstrual cycle is irregular, you should consult a doctor who will tell you what to do. Establishing a cycle duration of 21-36 days is considered the norm.

With changes in mood, a herbal mixture with common twig helps well, which affects the level of testosterone in the body.

Skin problems such as acne, oily hair, greasiness? talk about an imbalance of hormones in the female body. In this case, combined oral contraceptives with antiandrogenic action are selected.

Doctors believe that it is better to stop taking the pills two to three months before the planned conception. However, it should be borne in mind that the likelihood of conception increases already in the first month after discontinuation of the contraceptive.

How to take birth control pills correctly?

In the absence of lactation, it is better to start taking it 21 days after birth. If breastfeeding, taking oral contraceptives should be postponed for six months.

After an abortion, it is necessary to start using birth control pills on the day of the abortion.

Standard regimen for hormonal contraceptives
The drug is taken daily for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break, then continues to be taken from a new package. Menstrual-like bleeding goes away during a break from taking the pills.

Special Modes
The 24+4 mode is typical for the contraceptive Jess, the package of which contains 24 hormonal and 4 inactive tablets. The tablets are used daily, without breaks.

Extended mode
It consists of taking a product containing only “active” tablets (continuously, more than one package). A three-cycle regimen is common - taking 63 tablets of monophasic drugs followed by a 7-day break.

Thus, the number of menstrual bleeding per year is reduced to four.

What to do if you forgot to take your pill?

If one or two tablets are missed, or a new pack is not started within one or two days
Take a pill. There is a risk of pregnancy.

Missing three or more tablets in the first 2 weeks of use, or not starting a new pack within three days
Take a pill. Use barrier methods of contraception for 7 days. If sexual intercourse has taken place within 5 days, use emergency contraception.

Skipping 3 or more tablets during the third week of use
Take the pill as soon as possible. If the package contains 28 tablets, do not take the last seven tablets. Don't take a break. Use barrier methods of contraception for 7 days. If sexual intercourse has taken place within 5 days, use emergency contraception.

When do birth control pills start working?

How to choose the right drug for nulliparous and parous women?

Low-dose and medium-dose hormonal drugs are suitable for women who have given birth. These include: Yarina, Marvelon, Lindinet-30, Regulon, Silest, Janine, Miniziston, Diane-35 and Chloe.

Features of contraception depending on the woman’s age

Undoubtedly, the choice of contraceptive drug depends on age characteristics.

At what age can you take birth control pills?

It is advisable to start contraception in adolescence, if, of course, there is a need for it. In recent years, there has been a decrease in the age of first pregnancy and childbirth, and the frequency of abortions at a young age is increasing.

According to WHO, the most effective for adolescents are combined oral contraceptives containing small doses of steroids and third-generation drugs containing progestogens. Three-phase drugs are best suited for adolescents: Triziston, Triquilar, Tri-Regol, as well as single-phase drugs: Femoden, Mercilon, Silest, Marvelon, which regulate the course of the menstrual cycle.

Birth control pills for young girls

In addition to oral contraceptives, other methods are also popular in our country: insertion of an intrauterine device, use of a condom, and use of injection methods of contraception.

It has been proven that birth control pills are used not only for contraception, but also for therapeutic and preventive purposes for diseases such as infertility, inflammatory and oncological diseases, and menstrual irregularities. The only drawback that you need to be aware of is that hormonal contraceptives do not protect a woman from sexually transmitted infections.

The most common remedies at this age are Janine, Yarina, Regulon.

Which birth control pills are best to take after 35 years of age?

A woman may suffer from cervical diseases, endometriosis, endocrinological diseases - diabetes mellitus, thyrotoxicosis, obesity. Many women smoke. These factors complicate the selection of hormonal contraceptives.

Steroids are prescribed only if there are no contraindications. The latest generation combined contraceptive pills and three-phase drugs are preferred: Femoden, Triziston, Silest, Triquilar, Marvelon, Tri-regol.

For this group of women, products with a low content of hormones, as well as “mini-pill” preparations, are excellent. Hormonal contraception is combined with the therapeutic effect of new generation drugs. The most popular of them is Femulen. It can be used if a woman has diseases such as thrombophlebitis, previous heart attack and stroke, hypertension, severe migraine-type headaches, and some gynecological diseases.

Which birth control pills are suitable for women over 45?

Undoubtedly, a woman is able to become pregnant and give birth to a child, but pregnancy often occurs with complications, since at this age there is a fairly large bouquet of various diseases. Usually there are diseases of the cardiovascular system, liver and kidneys, chronic dysfunctions of the reproductive system. All factors can serve as contraindications for the prescription of hormonal contraceptives. Smoking and other bad habits also complicate the use of birth control pills.

Very often, by the age of 40, women no longer plan a pregnancy, and unwanted pregnancies are artificially terminated. Abortion, especially during this period, has consequences that threaten a woman’s health. Frequent complications of abortion are the development of uterine fibroids, cancer, and severe manifestations of menopause. The possibility of developing diseases indicates the need for contraception during this period.

Birth control pills are also prescribed for many gynecological diseases, osteoporosis, and to prevent the development of ovarian and uterine cancer.

At the age of over 45 years, it is promising to use low-dose hormonal drugs, mini-pills, injections and implants that are implanted under the skin (for example, Norplant).

Combined-action contraceptive pills are contraindicated in women over 45 years of age in the following cases:

• if a woman smokes;
• if a woman suffers from heart and vascular diseases - heart attack, stroke, thrombosis;
• with type 2 diabetes mellitus;
• in case of severe liver diseases with the development of liver failure;
• for obesity.

Effect of birth control pills

For pregnancy

Taking hormonal drugs in the first three weeks of pregnancy does not have a negative effect on the condition of the fetus and the health of the woman.

Overall for the body

For the development of mastopathy

Experts say that with the correct choice of birth control pills and the correct regimen for their use, mastopathy cannot develop. Another thing is when a woman has hormonal imbalances, there are chronic gynecological diseases, diseases of the liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands. Hormonal imbalance, stress, depression, abortion, breast injury can lead to mastopathy.

Contraception should only be selected by a doctor. The doctor must take into account all the characteristics of a particular woman, her state of health, age, heredity, phenotype, bad habits, lifestyle, sexual activity. If the drug is selected incorrectly, without a doubt, the risk of developing mastopathy increases.

It is important to start taking hormonal medications only after consultation and examination by a specialist - in this case, you will avoid unwanted consequences and possible complications.

Do birth control pills help with menopause and androgenetic alopecia?

Is it possible to leave without a doctor's prescription?

Many women, trying to insure themselves against an unplanned pregnancy, take hormonal drugs, as a result of which they begin to develop serious health problems.

What consequences from contraceptive drugs can occur in women?

Long-term use of hormonal drugs provokes disruption of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Their effect on the nervous system leads to an imbalance in the mechanisms of wakefulness and sleep, which manifests itself in irritability, insomnia, headaches, aggressiveness, and deep depression. After taking birth control pills, a woman’s optic nerve often becomes inflamed, her vision deteriorates, and her eyes become swollen.

Long-term exposure to contraceptive drugs leads to changes in blood sugar levels. Tissues gradually lose their sensitivity to insulin, resulting in the development of diseases such as pancreatitis and diabetes.

Effects of oral contraceptives on organs

The consequences of taking contraceptives can manifest themselves in liver dysfunction. Acting as a detoxifier, the liver neutralizes harmful substances introduced along with hormonal drugs. Gradually wearing out, the organ loses its ability to neutralize poisons, which provokes the occurrence of cholecystitis, hepatitis, and liver adenoma.

The consequences of taking contraceptives also manifest themselves in dysfunction of other organs. The stomach suffers from the effects of hormonal drugs. The protective film does not withstand the aggressive effects of the drug and is destroyed, which entails thinning of the walls of the stomach and the occurrence of diseases such as duodenitis, gastritis, ulcers, and dysbacteriosis.

The urinary system is also negatively affected by synthetic contraceptives. The consequences of taking birth control pills can lead to cystitis and kidney disease. Long-term use of contraceptives can lead to thyroid dysfunction. There is a change in the concentration of hormones, which entails disruption of the ovaries.

Negative consequences of taking contraceptives that affect the reproductive system

Hormonal contraception has a negative impact on the female reproductive system. Artificial hormones provoke:

1. weakening of ovarian function, which leads to disruption of the menstrual cycle;
2. suppression of the endometrium, which entails the occurrence of tumors and uterine bleeding.

Taking contraceptive hormonal drugs leads to the fact that the reproductive system gradually atrophies as unnecessary (if the drugs are taken for more than 5 years). A woman who decides to conceive a baby, but takes hormonal pills for at least a few months, is at risk of premature birth and late miscarriages.

How do oral contraceptives affect body weight?

Taking hormonal contraceptives may subsequently lead to slight weight gain. In the body of even a healthy woman, under the influence of drugs, a hormonal imbalance occurs, and if the patient has a history of problems with the thyroid gland, then weight gain can be significant. Synthetic hormones suppress the body's own glands and interfere with the body's metabolic processes.

The consequences of long-term use of contraceptives lead to the development of a stable depressive state. Women are increasingly experiencing bad moods, irritation and even nervous breakdowns. A stable dependence on the drug occurs: the female body requires the use of a contraceptive to maintain hormonal balance.

Femininity and youth

Long-term exposure to synthetic hormonal agents causes premature ovarian hypofunction. They decrease in size and their hormonal activity is inhibited. The consequences of birth control pills lead to the active synthesis of male hormones. A woman develops masculine traits and loses her femininity.

With the onset of menopause, a woman stops artificially “defending herself” from unwanted conception. After stopping oral synthetic contraceptives, her body begins to age rapidly. He no longer receives the hormones he needs for normal functioning. The consequences of taking birth control pills lead to the fact that a woman’s health deteriorates, her body weakens, and fatigue occurs quickly.

How do oral contraceptives affect heredity?

Taking hormonal drugs by the mother has a negative impact on the future female generation. Often in girls, the menstrual cycle is disrupted and endocrine diseases occur. The consequences of birth control pills can manifest themselves as follows: having conceived a child, it becomes difficult for young women to carry a pregnancy to term normally, and there is a risk of developing a defective fetus.

Before starting to take hormonal pills, a woman must consult a doctor and, after weighing all the negative aspects, as well as the consequences of taking birth control pills, make a decision.

Hormonal drugs are a group of drugs used for hormone therapy and containing hormones or their synthesized analogues.

The effect of hormonal drugs on the body has been studied quite well, and most studies are freely available to a wide range of readers.

There are hormonal products containing hormones of natural origin (they are made from the glands of slaughter cattle, urine and blood of various animals and humans), including plant ones, and synthetic hormones and their analogues, which, naturally, differ from natural ones in their chemical composition , however, produce the same physiological effect on the body.

Hormonal agents are prepared in the form of oil and water formulations for intramuscular or subcutaneous administration, as well as in the form of tablets and ointments (creams).

Effect

Traditional medicine uses hormonal drugs for diseases that are associated with insufficient production of certain hormones by the human body, for example, deficiency of insulin in diabetes, sex hormones in decreased ovarian function, triiodothyronine in myxedema. This therapy is called replacement therapy and is carried out over a very long period of the patient’s life, and sometimes throughout his entire life. Also, hormonal drugs, in particular those containing glucocorticoids, are prescribed as antiallergic or anti-inflammatory drugs, and mineralocorticoids are prescribed for myasthenia gravis.

Important female hormones

A very large number of hormones “work” in the female body. Their coordinated work allows a woman to feel like a woman.

Estrogens

These are “female” hormones that stimulate the growth and function of the female genital organs and the growth of the mammary glands. In addition, they are responsible for the appearance of female secondary sexual characteristics, i.e., breast enlargement, fat deposition and the formation of female-type muscles. In addition, these hormones are responsible for the cyclicity of menstruation. They are produced by the ovaries in women, the testes in men, and the adrenal cortex in both sexes. These hormones affect bone growth and water-salt balance. After menopause, women have less estrogen. This can lead to hot flashes, sleep disturbances and atrophy of the genitourinary system. Also, a lack of estrogen can be a cause of osteoporosis that develops in postmenopause.

Androgens

Produced by the ovaries in women, the testes in men, and the adrenal cortex in both sexes. These hormones can be called “male” hormones. In certain concentrations, they cause women to develop male secondary sexual characteristics (deepening of the voice, growth of facial hair, baldness, growth of muscle mass “in the wrong places”). Androgens increase libido in both sexes.

A large amount of androgens in the female body can lead to partial atrophy of the mammary glands, uterus and ovaries and infertility. During pregnancy, under the influence of excess amounts of these substances, a miscarriage may occur. Androgens can reduce the secretion of vaginal lubrication, making sexual intercourse painful for the woman.

Progesterone

Progesterone is called the “pregnancy” hormone. It is produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries, and during pregnancy also by the placenta. Progesterone helps maintain pregnancy, stimulates the development of the mammary glands and “prepares” the uterus for bearing a fetus. During pregnancy, its level increases 15 times. This hormone helps us get the most nutrients from what we eat and increases our appetite. During pregnancy, these are very useful qualities, but if its formation increases at other times, this contributes to the appearance of extra pounds.

Luteinizing hormone

Produced by the pituitary gland. It regulates the secretion of estrogen by the ovaries in women, and is also responsible for ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum.

Follicle-stimulating hubbub

Synthesized by the pituitary gland. Stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, estrogen secretion and ovulation. Gonadotropic hormones (FSH - follicle-stimulating hormone, LH - luteinizing hormone and prolactin), produced in the adenohypophysis, determine the sequence of maturation of follicles in the ovary, ovulation (the release of the egg), the development and functioning of the corpus luteum."

Prolactin

This hormone is also produced by the pituitary gland. In addition, the mammary gland, placenta, central nervous system and immune system are involved in its secretion. Prolactin stimulates the growth and development of the mammary glands and is involved in the formation of maternal instinct. It is necessary for lactation, increases milk secretion and converts colostrum into milk.

This hormone prevents the occurrence of a new pregnancy while breastfeeding the baby. It is also involved in providing orgasm and has an analgesic effect. Prolactin is called a stress hormone. Its production increases under stressful conditions, anxiety, depression, severe pain, psychosis, and the influence of unfavorable external factors.

All these hormones are very important for the proper functioning of a woman’s body. They allow the female body to function normally.

Features of hormonal drugs

Such a broad concept as “hormonal drugs” includes various medications:

1. Contraceptives.
2. Treatments (drugs that cure diseases, for example, somatotropin in childhood treats dwarfism caused by its deficiency).
3. Regulating (various tablets for normalizing the menstrual cycle or hormonal levels).
4. Supportive (insulin for diabetics).

They all have different effects on a woman’s body.

Contraceptives

Without contraceptives, it is difficult to avoid unwanted pregnancy, and constantly using condoms or other mechanical methods of protection can be inconvenient. Therefore, many drugs have been developed for the fairer sex, the use of which does not cause pregnancy.

Most often, the effect of contraceptives is that they prevent the egg from attaching to the walls of the uterus, so the development of the fetus becomes impossible. The use of contraceptives in the form of pills is popular today, but along with the positive qualities, there are also negative consequences for the woman’s body:

• menstrual irregularities (due to incorrect selection of the drug);
• swelling and weight gain (due to the body not taking medications);
• hair loss, brittle nails and dry skin (due to improper selection);
• lethargy, poor health, decreased libido.

But all these qualities in 90% of cases manifest themselves due to incorrect or independent selection of contraceptives. Only a gynecologist can select such serious medications, because for this it is necessary to analyze the woman’s hormonal data. Under no circumstances prescribe oral contraceptives on your own, because just because some contraceptives didn’t make one girl feel bad, this doesn’t mean that they will suit others.

But not everyone can use this method of protection.

There are several contraindications for the use of hormonal contraceptives:

• presence of problems with the background;
• taking antibiotics;
• pregnancy;
• problems with the cardiovascular system;
• age less than 17 years;
• excess weight and allergic reactions.

During the period of such protection, chronic diseases may worsen. Discuss all the details with your doctor or gynecologist before you start taking contraceptives.

Side effects

Instructions for hormonal contraceptives sometimes list mental disorders as side effects. These are usually depression and anxiety disorders. Fear attacks or panic attacks are not always indicated separately because they are often reduced simply to anxiety disorders. Although they deserve special attention and can greatly ruin the life of a woman who uses contraceptives. According to research conducted by the Royal Society of General Practitioners, women taking hormonal contraception have an increased risk of mental illness, neurotic depression (10-40%), the development of psychosis, and suicide. Aggression increases, and changes in mood and behavior are noted. It is possible that this factor has a significant impact on the life of the family and society.

If we consider that the mood of women is influenced even by the normally observed fluctuations in the levels of endogenous hormones during the menstrual cycle (for example, according to data from France and England, 85% of crimes committed by women occur in their premenstrual period), it becomes clear why when taking GC aggression and depression increase by 10-40%.

Under the influence of contraception, the level of the hormone testosterone, which is responsible for sexuality, is significantly reduced. Women taking hormonal contraceptives often complain of a lack of desire, lack of sexual desire, and difficulty achieving orgasm. It is known that with long-term use of hormonal contraceptives, irreversible changes in the area of ​​sexuality and libido can occur. Due to the blocking of testosterone, very young girls using contraceptives experience sexual coldness, often anorgasmia.

When taking hormonal contraceptives, special attention should be paid to the following recommendations:

• pills intended to protect against unwanted pregnancy do not protect the female body from sexually transmitted diseases;
• women over 35 years of age should stop smoking when taking combined contraceptive pills, as in this case the risk of vascular blockage increases significantly;
• During breastfeeding, it is undesirable to use tablets of a combined composition, since the estrogen in their composition affects the quality and composition of milk. In this case, tablets containing only the corpus luteum hormone are prescribed;
• if nausea, dizziness, or stomach upset occur, you should consult a specialist;
• if you are prescribed medications, you must inform your doctor that you are taking hormonal contraceptives;
• if there is a miss in taking pills, then there is a need to use additional contraceptives, for example, condoms;
• For women with severe forms of endocrine diseases, for example, diabetes mellitus, as well as those with pathology of the heart and blood vessels, neoplasms, taking oral contraceptives is undesirable.

Treating

This group treats the body from diseases and disorders. Such hormonal preparations can be in the form of tablets or external use. The former are used to treat serious diseases caused by hormonal imbalances. The latter affect more locally, at the places of use.

Often, girls synthesize few hormones responsible for the synthesis of new cells, so cracks or bleeding wounds appear on the skin, especially in winter, and do not heal. To treat them, a dermatologist may prescribe a cream, ointment, or lotion with certain hormones.

Often, ointments contain corticosteroids, which, when applied to the skin, are absorbed into the blood within a few hours and begin to act. How does this group affect the body? This issue should be taken seriously, because the medications that are used most require attention when prescribing, determining the dosage and duration of the course, because the wrong step will cause complications of existing disorders.

Regulatory

Due to the crazy pace of life, daily poor nutrition, bad habits, sedentary lifestyle and new-fangled diets, women often suffer from menstrual irregularities. This negatively affects the development of the reproductive system, the general condition of the body, increases the risk of developing breast cancer, and can also cause infertility. But there is a solution to this problem, because most often the cycle goes wrong due to changes in hormonal levels.

Therefore, a detailed blood test is taken for these substances. Such procedures are not cheap, because working with hormones is very difficult, but remember: treating the consequences of disorders will cost much more, so take care of your body in a timely manner.

After identifying specific hormones that are deficient or in excess, a course of medications is prescribed to regulate their levels. These could be pills or injections. Often, gynecologists prescribe oral contraceptives to normalize the menstrual cycle. Don't be afraid, they are not trying to deceive or make things worse. Depending on the test results, some hormonal remedies actually improve menstruation without causing negative consequences. The influence of regulatory agents depends on the correctness of their selection and dosage, because the body requires active substances in the smallest doses, so it is very easy to cross the line of the norm. For example, if you overdo it with progesterone injections when there is a lack of it, you may experience swelling, nausea, hair loss and pain in the mammary glands.

Supporters

These pills or injections keep the body normal if diseases or disorders can no longer be cured. This may be due to chronic diseases, constant malfunctions, poor functioning of endocrine organs, and others. For example, without insulin injections, a diabetic can die within a few days, even if he does not eat sweets.

Thyroxine tablets can stop the development of myxedema in people with thyroid dysfunction.

These drugs can often cause harm:

• loading the gastrointestinal tract;
• irritating the mucous membranes of the stomach or intestines;
• causing hair loss or other unpleasant symptoms.

But it is impossible to refuse them, because these are the drugs that keep the patient alive.

Hormonal drugs have a profound effect on a woman’s body, especially if they are oral contraceptives or regulating agents. Therefore, remember that only a specialist can prescribe them after detailed tests. Tablets, injections, ointments and other medications with hormones often disrupt the functioning of the digestive system, excretory system, and can cause weakness, so consult your doctor if such symptoms occur.

Common Myths

1. Hormonal drugs are very harmful to health and should not be used under any circumstances. This is an erroneous opinion. Hormonal drugs have a diverse systemic effect on the body, and, like any other medicine, can cause side effects. However, abortion, from which these drugs protect almost 100 percent, is much more dangerous for a woman’s health.
2. I will take the hormonal medications that helped my friend (sister, acquaintance). I should not self-prescribe hormones (like any other medications). These drugs are prescription drugs and should only be prescribed by a doctor after an examination, taking into account all the characteristics of your body (which, by the way, may be completely opposite to the characteristics of the body of your friend or even relative).
3. Hormonal drugs should not be used by nulliparous women and girls under 20 years old. This is a completely erroneous opinion. Hormonal contraceptives can be used even by adolescents, especially if it is necessary to achieve a certain therapeutic effect.
4. After using hormones for a long time, you don’t have to worry about getting pregnant. Not at all. Already a month after finishing taking the drugs, it becomes possible to get pregnant, and even give birth to twins or triplets, since 2-3 eggs mature in the ovary. Some forms of infertility are treated by prescribing contraceptives for 3-4 months.
5. After a certain time (six months, a year, etc.) you should take a break from taking hormonal drugs. This opinion is erroneous, since breaks in taking the drug do not affect either the appearance (or non-occurrence) of complications or the ability to bear children after taking medications. If there is a need and, in the opinion of the doctor, there are no contraindications to constant use, hormonal drugs can be used continuously and for as long as desired.
6. Nursing mothers should not take hormones. This statement is only true for some pills that affect lactation. However, there are tablets containing only a small amount of the hormone that do not affect lactation. You just need to remember that these tablets must be used strictly every 24 hours continuously. Even a minimal deviation from the hours of administration completely destroys the contraceptive effect of this drug.
7. Hormonal pills can make you gain a lot of weight. Hormonal pills do have an effect on appetite, but for some it increases and for others it decreases. It is impossible to predict exactly how the drug will affect you. If a woman tends to be overweight or if her body weight increases while taking it, the doctor prescribes drugs with a low content of gestagens, which are responsible for weight gain.
8. Hormonal drugs are created only to prevent pregnancy in women; there are no drugs of this kind for men. This is wrong. Hormonal drugs are drugs obtained synthetically and acting like natural hormones produced in our body. These kinds of drugs do not necessarily have a contraceptive effect, and can be prescribed to both women and men (depending on the type of drug) to normalize the function of the reproductive system, normalize hormonal levels, etc.
9. Only very severe diseases are treated with hormonal drugs. Not necessary. In the treatment of some mild diseases, hormonal drugs are also prescribed. For example, when thyroid function decreases, thyroxine or euthyrox is used.
10. Hormones accumulate in the body. Erroneous opinion. Once in the body, hormones almost immediately break down into chemical compounds, which are then excreted from the body. For example, a birth control pill breaks down and leaves the body within 24 hours: that is why it needs to be taken every 24 hours. After the end of taking hormonal drugs, the effect of their influence is maintained not due to the accumulation of drugs in the body, but due to the fact that hormones act on various organs (ovaries, uterus, mammary glands, parts of the brain), normalizing their functioning.
11. Pregnant women are not prescribed hormonal medications. If a woman had hormonal disorders before pregnancy, then during pregnancy she needs medicinal support so that the production of female and male hormones is normal and the child develops normally. Hormones (for example, adrenal hormones) are also used if the hormonal balance of a woman’s body is disrupted during pregnancy.
12. In any case, hormonal drugs can be replaced with other drugs. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In some situations, hormonal drugs are irreplaceable (for example, if a woman under 50 has had her ovaries removed). And sometimes hormonal treatment is prescribed by a neuropsychiatrist (for example, for depression).