The pills contain small amounts of female hormones similar to those produced by the body (Getty Images)

The ace pills (oral contraceptives) are part of methods the most common treatments in the world. More than 60 years after its appearance, and with scientific advances that have improved the formulations of the past and achieved lower hormonal doses in today’s tablets, they still persist. false beliefs and true ignoring regarding its use and effects.

Dr. Marisa Labovsky, specialist in child and adolescent gynecology and contraception (MN 84.376), former president of the Argentine Society of Child and Adolescent Gynecology (SAGIJ), indicated that the pills currently rank second after condoms as the most common method of prevention. . “Although in recent years long-acting methods such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants have started to gain ground, pills are still the most widely used,” added the specialist.

The first thing to keep in mind is that pills should always be prescribed by a doctor. This should take into account certain risk factors in women, including age, smoking, overweight, family history of thrombosis, high blood pressure and diabetes. It is always suggested that it be indicated and supervised by a medical professional.

Current oral contraceptives have much lower hormonal doses than a few years ago (Getty)
Current oral contraceptives have much lower hormonal doses than a few years ago (Getty)

“The pills contain small amounts of female hormones similar to those produced by the body. Taking them daily prevents ovulation and thickens the mucus of the cervix, preventing the passage of sperm. It is a very safe contraceptive method, with 98% effectiveness, if used correctly,” said Dr. Labovsky.

The specialist indicated that around the pills there are still false beliefs and ignorance, but stressed that indeed the pills have more advantages than risks.

Pills, in the case of those containing estrogen, alter certain proteins involved in blood clotting. Therefore, the risk of problems related to thrombosis increases. This increased risk depends, in turn, on other factors related to the patient, such as smoking, obesity or the presence or absence of thrombophilia. This is why the doctor evaluates these factors during the consultation to see whether or not he can indicate birth control pills to the patient.

Some birth control pills are designed to prevent bleeding for 3 months straight or up to a year (Photo: Wikicommons)
Some birth control pills are designed to prevent bleeding for 3 months straight or up to a year (Photo: Wikicommons)

1 – Can I choose not to have my period? Yes, before the dosage of the pills came in blister packs for 21 days on the pills and 7 days off. When taking the inactive pills, bleeding similar to menstruation occurs. Currently there are more options, even with all pills mode active.

2 – Do pills make you fat? No. Some women may experience slight weight gain due to fluid retention, but with newer contraceptives that have an antimineralocorticoid effect, such retention is rare.

3 – Do they cause acne and more body beauty? Fake. Not only do they not develop it, but taking pills is often prescribed as a treatment for acne because they improve the appearance of the skin. Although in some it may be a side effect, what actually happens is the opposite.

4 – Can I take any pill? No. There are different compositions and the patient’s medical history will determine the most appropriate. Like all medicines, they can present certain side effects, so it is important to consult a specialist to indicate the most appropriate.

5 – What happens if I forget to take it one day? There are options: take it as soon as you remember or take two together when it fits the next day (keep in mind that not all brands are the same). In case of vomiting, if the first 4 hours pass after taking the pill, it should be considered as the missed dose. In case of gastroenteritis with diarrhea lasting several days, it is important to use another mode of care (condom) up to 7 days after the affection.

A review of 36 studies conducted between 1978 and 2011 found that only 15% of women experienced a low sex drive when they first started taking birth control pills (Getty)
A review of 36 studies conducted between 1978 and 2011 found that only 15% of women experienced a low sex drive when they first started taking birth control pills (Getty)

6 – Take a pill, should I treat myself with another method? Contraceptives taken correctly protect against unwanted pregnancies, but not against sexually transmitted diseases, so the use of condoms is always recommended in risky relationships.

7 – Do the pills affect fertility? No. Ovulation usually resumes a few weeks after stopping treatment. In a small percentage of women, it may take a few months to appear, especially in those who have had problems with ovulation before.

8 – Are the pills taken until the age of 30? No. Healthy women who do not smoke can continue to take oral contraceptives until menopause.

9 – Can antibiotics reduce their effectiveness? No. Antibiotics do not interfere with the effectiveness of the pills, with a few exceptions. It is always advisable to consult a specialist.

ten – Do they decrease sexual desire? This idea was born with the creation of the pills. Although there are some biological explanations, studies do not support this belief. A review of 36 studies conducted between 1978 and 2011 found that only 15% of women felt a decrease in libido when starting the pill, a further 22% said they felt no change, and the remaining 62% said they felt an increase in libido. since he started using the pill.

Not all contraceptives are the same and are not suitable for all women, so it is advisable to consult a specialist before starting any contraceptive treatment and to monitor side effects.

Pills are a safe and effective method of birth control, as long as the directions for taking them are followed and used correctly, plus they have many benefits that have nothing to do with birth control.

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