What are hormones used for? The latest birth control pills: how to choose? Impact on women's health and pregnancy

It's hard to say how barbaric modern methods contraception will be considered by our descendants, because the most progressive and safe contraceptives of two hundred years ago look today as an instrument of torture. It is known, for example, that in the Middle Ages, women put iron caps on the cervix, lubricated it with a solution of mercury and lead, and inserted pessaries made of steel wire into it and caused infection and bedsores of the reproductive organs. AT different time and in different countries, contraceptives were repeatedly banned by the authorities, then by the church, so devices such as a vaginal syringe or vaginal douche periodically appeared on the market, which were used to cleanse the internal female organs.

Current contraceptives promote the principle of safety and guaranteed protection against unwanted pregnancy. Justified and approved official medicine contraceptives of three types: physiological, barrier and medication.

• Barrier. Prevent sperm from entering the uterus. The most famous barrier contraceptive is the condom (both male and female). Other barrier contraceptives - intrauterine devices, contraceptive sponges, cervical caps, and spermicides.
• Physiological. Expect sexual intercourse on certain days female cycle when the risk of getting pregnant is minimal. Another method of physiological control is the method of PPA (coitus interruptus).
• Medical. Presented by pills, as well as vaginal rings and spirals that release hormones that block the onset of ovulation.

When prescribing a certain method of contraception to a woman, gynecologists often provide her with the opportunity to independently choose the appropriate remedy from a number of similar ones. But how to do this if the same drug has dozens of analogues that are identical in composition and mode of action? The rating of the best contraceptives takes into account the opinion of other women, the cost of drugs, the correspondence between the expected effect and the real one, as well as the presence of additional benefits and side effects.

Please note that the information below is not a buying guide. Consultation needed with a specialist!

There are contraindications. Check with your doctor.

The best birth control pills

It has long been proven that a prolonged absence of pregnancy can disrupt a woman's health, provoking hormonal disbalance, as well as mental and organ diseases associated with it. The Frenchman Verne Bullo, a historian by profession, spoke about this back in the 19th century: “If a woman is not regularly pregnant, she will suffer from hysteria and from a whole category of somatic symptoms that stimulate almost any kind of physical illness or mental state". At the same time, unwanted pregnancy and abortion can cause no less harm to a woman than a prolonged absence of pregnancy.

Hormonal contraceptives are chosen by millions of women around the world as the preferred method of contraception. They do not affect the sensations during intercourse and are guaranteed to protect against unwanted pregnancy and the consequences of its absence. The action of hormonal contraceptives is based on the prevention of ovulation. Scientists have calculated that at the time of birth, the girl's ovaries contain about 1 million follicles that can become eggs, and by the age of 37 there are only 25,000 of them. Hormonal drugs do not allow the body to ovulate, so the woman's ovarian reserve remains full. Meanwhile, hormonal pills have not only advantages, but also an impressive list of side effects, often life-threatening.

3 Lactinet

The best contraceptive for adult women
Country: Hungary
Average price: 675 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Unlike Jess and Marvelon, Lactinet contains the only active ingredient - desogestrel. Belongs to the category of mini-pills (drugs containing a minimum amount of hormones). Lactinet mini-pills are often prescribed for lactating women with an active menstrual cycle, as well as for those women who are contraindicated in combined OK. Lactinet is one of the few oral contraceptives prescribed for women who smoke, as well as women over 45 years of age.

Another feature of the Hungarian OK is that its protective effect against unwanted pregnancy is somewhat lower than that of modern COCs. For this reason, the drug is not recommended for use by women in active reproductive age (up to 30 years). Other than that, it's pretty efficient. contraceptive, which has less than modern pills, a list of contraindications and side effects.

Advantages:

• allowed during lactation;
• does not affect weight gain;
• suitable for those who are intolerant to synthetic estrogens.

Flaws:

• provokes the occurrence of mastopathy;
• violates the menstrual cycle during the reception;
• causes depression;
• causes nausea at the beginning of the course.

2 Marvelon

The cheapest tool
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 1,425 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Combined contraceptive drug from the Dutch company Organon. Approved for use by women over 35 years of age, as it contains a reduced amount active components. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it normalizes the volume of secretions and eliminates pain syndrome during menstruation. It can be used as a means of emergency contraception, but not more than 1 time in 6 months. The effectiveness of Marvelon as a postcoital agent does not exceed 80%.

According to women taking Marvelon, the drug has Negative influence on the ability to get pregnant in the case of its long-term use, therefore, it is recommended to drink these pills in courses. Considering increased risk the occurrence of thrombosis, before taking the drug, it is recommended to be examined by a hematologist, hepatologist and vascular surgeon.

Advantages:

• is inexpensive;
• normalizes the cycle;
• increases libido.

Flaws:

• causes acne;
• thickens the blood;
• increases appetite.

1 Jess

Best birth control pills
Country: Germany
Average price: 922 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.9

Jess is a combined oral contraceptive from the German pharmaceutical company Bayer. The active ingredients are drospirenone and ethinylestradiol. Used to protect against unwanted pregnancy severe forms PMS and also for acne treatment. The contraceptive effect of the pills is based on blocking ovulation and changing the quality of cervical mucus, which becomes too thick for sperm to move.

Unlike other COCs with the same active ingredient, the Jess formula has been improved: the latest (4th) generation drospironene is used here, and each tablet contains 1.5 times less ethinylestradiol than other COCs. For this reason, Jess is less likely than other drugs to cause swelling, mastopathy and weight gain.

Advantages:

• eliminates menstrual pain;
• improves skin condition.

Flaws:

• the cycle is restored for a long time after the completion of the Jess course;
• addictive;
• reduces libido;
• causes migraines.

The best birth control candles

Contraceptive suppositories belong to the category of spermicidal contraceptives. Operating principle chemical spermicides consists in the destruction of the membrane of spermatozoa: interacting with spermatozoa, the components of the drug destroy their membrane, separate the head from the tail, depriving them of the ability to move. Especially strong spermatozoa, however, are still able to get to the egg and fertilize it. This can be fraught with the birth of a child with certain physical deformities. Such a relationship has not been proven, but many women testify to this. It is not recommended to use such contraceptives regularly, because the acids contained in the candles can have a negative effect on the condition of the mucous membrane in the vagina, as well as on the cervix. Candles are not distinguished by the highest contraceptive ability. According to statistics, 15 out of 100 women who use birth control candles become pregnant within a year.

Thus, contraceptive suppositories are convenient option protection for women who have infrequent sex. Candles are ideal as an additional contraceptive - when the pill regimen has been violated or during the completion of lactation. The undoubted advantages of this method of contraception are the absence of a systemic effect on the body and the safety of intimate sensations.

3 Gynecotex

The best cost contraceptive candles
Country Russia
Average price: 140 rubles
Rating (2018): 4.7

Gynecotex suppositories use the same active ingredient as Pharmatex suppositories - benzalkonium chloride, so these products are similar. The fundamental difference between Gynekotex and Pharmatex is in cost: Russian candles are about 3 times cheaper than German ones. Some women note that these suppositories dissolve somewhat worse in the vagina and give more foam.

Advantages:

• are inexpensive;
• do not cause burning;
• protect against infections.

Flaws:

• dissolve for a long time.

2 Patentex Oval

Most popular remedy
Country: Germany
Average price: 370 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.5

The main active ingredient in Pantex Oval is nonoxynol. Included in many contraceptives as a lubricant: due to its spermicidal properties, it enhances contraceptive effect cervical caps, condoms, sponges and vaginal films. When interacting with a sperm cell, it damages its membrane, thereby depriving it of the ability to dissolve the egg cell membrane. The time required for the destruction of the spermatozoon is 40 seconds (10 times more than that of Pharmatex). The drug does not have bactericidal and antiviral properties, therefore it cannot be used as protection against STIs. There are studies proving that nonoxynol contributes to human morbidity with certain types of human papillomavirus.

Advantages:

• effective;
• quickly dissolve;
• have a stimulating effect.

Flaws:

• have an unpleasant odor;
• cause itching;
• foam excessively.

1 Pharmatex

The best birth control candles
Country: France
Average price: 349 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The main component of the drug is benzalkonium chloride. This drug has been used in medicine since 1935. It has not only a contraceptive effect, but also antiviral (protects against infection with herpes simplex viruses), antifungal and antiprotozoal. The substance has an instant effect on the sperm: its shell is completely destroyed within 10 seconds after contact with benzalkonium chloride. The rest of the drugs in this group require at least 30 seconds. Due to irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix, the drug is able to increase the amount of secreted mucus, which has an additional contraceptive effect.

Advantages:

• have a pleasant smell;
• dissolve in 5 minutes;
• protect against infections.

Flaws:

• cause irritation;
• poorly open;
• provoke too a large number of mucus.

The best intrauterine contraceptive coils

The intrauterine device is a contraceptive that has been well known since the Ancient China. In the past, coils were made from aluminum wire and wood, but today they are made from hypoallergenic plastic impregnated with anti-inflammatory compounds. According to its action, the spiral refers to barrier, abortive and spermicidal agents at the same time.

• Decreased fertility. The presence of an inflammatory process in the uterus contributes to the production of proteins that inhibit the maturation of the egg. As a result, ovulation is inhibited and fertilization does not occur.
• abortive effect. Located inside the uterus, the spiral negatively affects the endometrium, inhibiting its growth and ability to accept a fertilized egg. In fact, the spiral provokes a miscarriage on early dates pregnancy.
• spermicidal effect. In response to the located spiral, superficial inflammation occurs inside the uterus. As a result of inflammation, the alkaline environment in the uterus is replaced by an acidic environment that is detrimental to spermatozoa and contributes to their destruction. To increase the acidity of the intrauterine space, copper is additionally used in the spirals, which stimulates the release of an acid secret.
• Barrier contraceptive effect. The inflammatory process causes irritation of the cervical canal, which, in turn, produces increased amount thick cervical mucus that prevents sperm from entering the uterus.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a reliable and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, which, however, is associated with the creation of a focus of chronic infection in the body.

3 Spiral Nova T

The most accessible hormonal spiral
Country: Germany (made in Finland)
Average price: 800 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Nova T is a non-hormonal coil shaped like the letter T. Its base is made of hypoallergenic plastic, which is wrapped with copper wire. In order to enhance the radiopacity, barium sulfate is added to the plastic - it allows you to determine the position of the spiral during x-ray examination if required.

Advantages:

• not felt by partners during sex;
• has an affordable price.

Flaws:

• provokes copious discharge during menstruation;
• reinforces pain during menstruation;
• reduces sex drive.

2 Mirena

The best hormonal spiral
Country: Finland
Average price: 11500 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.7

Mirena belongs to the category of hormone-containing spirals, therefore, the principle of its action is similar to that of hormonal pills. The fundamental difference is only in the way hormones are delivered to the body. True, according to some women, the hormonal spiral, unlike OK, does not cause increased appetite, does not provoke swelling and does not cause irritation of the digestive system. Like Multiload, Mirena is installed for 5 years.

Advantages:

• normalizes the hormonal background;
• inexpensive hormonal contraceptive;
• reliably protects against pregnancy.

Flaws:

• requires large one-time costs;
• causes back pain
• contraindicated in the presence of benign tumors.

1 Multiload

The best intrauterine device
Country: Ireland
Average price: 2800 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Multiload is a spiral made of plastic and copper. It looks like a rounded T with uneven surfaces that prevent the spiral from slipping out of the uterus. Aseptic inflammation in the uterus provokes a copper wire wrapped around a plastic carrier. Interacting with alkaline environment, copper wire releases about 30 micrograms of copper oxide daily. The contraceptive effect of Multiload lasts for 5 years.

Advantages:

• reliably protects against pregnancy;
• economical;
• does not fall out.

Flaws:

• provokes inflammation;
• increases the duration of menstruation;
• causes discomfort after installation.

The best barrier contraceptives

Barrier contraception is the oldest, cheapest, most versatile and common method of contraception. A typical representative of this category is the condom. Less known are contraceptive sponges and rings, cervical caps, vaginal films and diaphragms, as well as chemical barrier agents (candles, aerosols, gels). There are practically no contraindications to the use of these drugs, so they are ideal for those who have intolerance to OK or IUDs. Some of barrier contraceptives able to warn premature ejaculation in men, protect against STIs and allergic reactions on ejaculate in women. Main disadvantage barrier means is that they act only at the time of their use. Our rating includes the best barrier contraceptives - the Nuvaring ring and Pharmatex sponges.

2 Contraceptive sponges Pharmatex

The best spermicide
Country: France
Average price: 65 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.7

Contraceptive sponges as barrier method used by women for many centuries: in ancient times they were sea sponges soaked in oils, and today they are polyurethane foam soaked in chemical spermicidal compounds. Pharmatex sponges use benzalkonium chloride as a spermicide. Unlike contraceptive suppositories, the sponge has not only a spermicidal effect, but also a mechanical one - it physically prevents the penetration of spermatozoa into the cervix. After installing the sponge, the partners can immediately begin the PA, and in the case of repeated sexual intercourse, they do not need to insert a new sponge into the vagina, as it retains its effect during the day.

Advantages:

• does not flow;
• convenient to enter;
• long-term;
• has a pleasant smell.

Flaws:

• inconveniently removed;
• hard to find in pharmacies.

1 Contraceptive ring Novaring

The best hormonal contraceptive
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 1050 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Nuvaring is one of the methods hormonal contraception, which uses, however, a fundamentally different method of administering hormones - vaginal. Due to this, the hormone does not pass through the liver and organs of the gastrointestinal tract, therefore it does not have a negative effect on them. The ring releases the minimum required amount of the hormone throughout the day, which eliminates hormonal surges during the day (as is the case with oral contraceptives) and creates an even hormonal background. Another advantage of the tool is the confidentiality of its use: the ring is easy to install on your own, it is not felt during intercourse and does not require removal after. Duration of action - 3 weeks. After 21 days, the ring is removed, and after 7 days it is installed again.

Advantages:

• set once a month;
• does not cause nausea;
• has less pronounced side effects compared to OK.

Flaws:

• sometimes falls out when straining;
• causes headache;
• provokes the development of vaginitis;
• allergic;
• enhances appetite.

Prescribing hormonal drugs often scares people. There are many myths around hormones. But most of them are fundamentally wrong.

Myth 1: Hormonal drugs are special contraceptive pills for women.

No. Hormonal preparations are medicines obtained synthetically. They act like natural hormones produced in our body. There are many organs in the human body that secrete hormones: female and male reproductive organs, glands internal secretion, central nervous system and others. Accordingly, hormonal preparations can be different, and they are prescribed for a variety of diseases.

Female hormonal preparations (containing female sex hormones) may or may not have a contraceptive effect. Sometimes, on the contrary, they normalize the hormonal background and contribute to the onset of pregnancy. Preparations containing male sex hormones are prescribed to men with a decrease in the quality of the ejaculate (that is, sperm motility), with hypofunction, and a decrease in the level of male sex hormones.

Myth 2: Hormones are prescribed only for very severe diseases

No. There are a number of non-severe diseases in which hormonal drugs are also prescribed. For example, declining functionality thyroid gland(hypofunction). Doctors often prescribe hormones in this case, for example, thyroxine or eutiroks.

Myth 3: If you do not take a hormonal pill on time, then nothing bad will happen.

No. Hormonal preparations should be taken strictly by the hour. For example, a hormonal contraceptive pill works for 24 hours. Accordingly, it is necessary to drink it once a day. There are drugs that you need to drink 2 times a day. These are some male sex hormones, as well as corticosteroids (eg, dexamethasone). Moreover, it is recommended to take hormones at the same time of day. If you drink hormones irregularly, or forget to drink at all, the level of the necessary hormone can drop sharply.

Let's take an example. If a woman forgot to take a hormonal contraceptive pill, the next day she should drink the forgotten evening pill in the morning, and another pill in the evening of the same day. If the interval between doses was more than a day (recall: a hormonal contraceptive pill is valid for 24 hours), then the level of hormones in the blood will decrease very much. In response to this, insignificant bloody issues. In such cases, you can continue taking birth control pills, but additionally use protection for the next week. If more than 3 days have passed, it is necessary to stop taking hormones, use other means of contraception, wait for the onset of menstruation and additionally consult a doctor.

Myth 4: If you take hormones, they accumulate in the body

No. When the hormone enters the body, it immediately breaks down into chemical compounds which are then excreted from the body. For example, a birth control pill breaks down and “leaves” the body during the day: that is why it needs to be taken every 24 hours.

However, hormonal drugs continue to "work" after they have stopped taking them. But they work indirectly. For example, a woman takes hormonal pills for several months, then stops taking them, and in the future she has no problems with her cycle.

Why is this happening? Hormonal drugs act on different target organs. For example, female birth control pills affect the ovaries, uterus, mammary glands, and parts of the brain. When the pill "left" the body, the mechanism that it launched continues to work.

Need to know: The mechanism of long-term action of hormones is not associated with their accumulation in the body. This is simply the principle of action of these drugs: "work" through other structures of the body.

Myth 5: Hormonal drugs are not prescribed during pregnancy

Discharged. If a woman had hormonal disorders before pregnancy, then during the bearing of the fetus she needs drug support so that the production of female and male hormones is normal and the child develops normally.

Or another situation. Before pregnancy, the woman was fine, but with her onset, something suddenly went wrong. For example, she suddenly notices that intense hair growth has begun from the navel down and around the nipples. In this case, you should definitely consult a doctor who can prescribe a hormonal examination, and, if necessary, prescribe hormones. Not necessarily female sex - it can be, for example, adrenal hormones.

Myth 6: Hormonal drugs have a lot of side effects, primarily weight gain.

There are almost no drugs without side effects. But you need to distinguish side effects that do not require discontinuation of the drug. For example, swelling of the mammary glands when taking contraceptive hormones considered a normal phenomenon. Scanty spotting in the first or second months of admission in the intermenstrual period also has the right to be. Headache, dizziness, fluctuations in weight (plus or minus 2 kg) - all this is not a pathology and not a sign of a disease. Hormonal preparations are prescribed for a sufficiently long period. By the end of the first month, the body adapts, and everything returns to normal.

But not to be really serious problems associated, say, with blood vessels, before prescribing a medicine and while taking it, it is imperative to be examined and tested. And only a doctor can prescribe you a specific hormonal drug that will not harm your health.

Myth 7: You can always find an alternative to hormones.

Not always. There are situations when hormonal drugs are indispensable. Let's say a woman under 50 had her ovaries removed. As a result, she begins to age and lose health very quickly. In this case, her body until the age of 55-60 must be supported by hormone therapy. Of course, provided that her underlying disease (due to which the ovaries were removed) has no contraindications to such an appointment.

Moreover, with some diseases, female sex hormones can be strictly recommended even by a neuropsychiatrist. For example, with depression.

The idol of many women - Coco Chanel - argued that youth begins only after 70 years. But some ladies already after 35-40 begin to notice obvious signs of aging: wrinkles, skin aging, deterioration of health, development of diseases. There is a way to stop these processes - female hormones in tablets. But what will their use bring - health and youth or cancer and excess weight?

Why take hormone pills?

A modern woman wants to be young, desirable, attractive even when her age has exceeded 40. Old age and its companions - decrepitude, loss of activity, age-related diseases - are not in fashion today. Today, hormone-containing drugs are used to combat them. What problems do they solve? Female hormones in tablets have the following effect:

• eliminate the deficiency of sex hormones, which means they prolong youth;
• maintain skin elasticity and firmness, reduce the rate of appearance of wrinkles;
• prevent the development of obesity;
• female hormones in tablets after 50 years reduce the risk of developing diabetes, atherosclerosis and osteoporosis (which leads to excessive bone fragility);
• eliminate diseases caused by atrophy of the vaginal mucosa; itching and dryness in this place;
• are an element of therapy chronic cystitis associated with atrophy of the bladder mucosa;
• relieve the problem of frequent urination to the toilet;
• normalize blood pressure;
• pills - female hormones during menopause significantly alleviate the condition, restore working capacity and good health(reduce the number of hot flashes, reduce sweating);
• are prophylactic against the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system and stroke.

What role do hormones play and what causes their deficiency?

home gonad in the body of a woman - the ovaries. Nature has assigned them the duty to secrete sex hormones. They retain moisture in the skin, so young girls have smooth, toned skin, their mucous membranes are moisturized, and their eyes radiate a bewitching brilliance.

But after 40 years, the amount of female sex hormones decreases, which becomes noticeable and appearance: the skin becomes dry, wrinkles appear, the look fades. These are signs of approaching old age. To replenish the supply of hormones, the female hormones estrogens in tablets just help.

The most important hormone of "femininity" 2.

1. Estrogens. They stimulate cell formation bone tissue(therefore, their lack turns into brittle bones). Hormones provide health blood vessels, prevent fats from building into their walls (eliminate the risk of heart attack and stroke). Estrogens have positive impact on arteries, brain, immunity. These substances improve the condition of the skin, increase sexual desire, ensure the growth of the mammary glands, are responsible for normal sleep. It is simply impossible to describe all the functions of these hormones, since their number reaches 400! Suffice it to say that they are involved in the work of the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs.
2. Progesterone. It is necessary for a woman to bear a child, and is also involved in the production of breast milk. The hormone prevents the uterus from overgrowing. A decrease in its amount is accompanied by the appearance of gynecological diseases - endometrial polyps and hyperplasia.

Female hormones estrogens in tablets - menopause is canceled?

To replenish the amount of estrogen, several types of hormonal drugs have been developed. To delay the onset of menopause and all its unpleasant consequences, the doctor may prescribe female hormones in tablets. Names of such drugs:

• Estrace, Ginodiol, Estradiol benzoate, Estradiol succinal - are taken orally. Appointed for a long term;
• tableted vaginal preparation- Vagifem. Facilitates the manifestations of menopause;
• to correct the menstrual cycle (which is important for 40-year-old women), Microfollin, Proginova are prescribed;
• Estrofeminal, Presomemen. Tablets in shells; effective means that improve the condition of a woman during menopause;
• Chlortrianisen (used to treat breast cancer), Tefestrol - stimulates the development of the uterus.

Female hormones in tablets after 40 years are prescribed for insufficient ovarian function. They are indicated for primary and secondary menopause, sexual insufficiency, menopausal disorders. Such hormone therapy is necessary for the prevention of osteoporosis, the normalization of high blood pressure and the elimination of spasms of peripheral vessels.

Taking hormonal drugs is prohibited if tumors, venous thrombosis, diabetes, cardiac ischemia, stroke, liver disease (cirrhosis), vaginal bleeding, viral hepatitis, severe headaches of unknown etiology are diagnosed. Treatment of menopausal symptoms with estrogen-containing drugs is not suitable for active smokers.

Progesterone - progestogen deficiency no longer threatens!

The age-related deficiency of the female hormone progestogen today can also be filled with pills. Female hormones during menopause are produced by the ovaries in very small quantities. Therefore, a drug such as Progesterone (and its analogues Geston, Ginlyutin, Lutein, Progestin, Lucorten) will effectively replace the work of the ovaries.

Replacement therapy can also be carried out with the help of Duphaston and Utrozhestan. These funds are shown not only to pregnant women: they are also prescribed after removal of the ovaries, with amenorrhea, cystic-fibrous mastopathy and to mitigate the manifestations of menopause.

It is not recommended to use drugs with gestagens for those who suffer from renal and liver failure, hypertension, bronchial asthma, thrombophlebitis or thrombosis. Serious contraindications are diabetes mellitus, migraine and epilepsy.

What can replace hormonal drugs?

Although safe female hormones in tablets have already been developed that can cause a minimum of side effects, not all women agree to such treatment. How, then, to make up for the age-related lack of hormones in order to live a full life during menopause? You can try to balance your diet. It should include seafood, cabbage, soy, rhubarb, legumes. The fruits of mountain ash and sage can supply female hormones to the body.

Pharmacists are developing more and more new drugs that can delay old age and alleviate the condition of women. Why are patients panicky afraid of such treatment? There is a prejudice that taking them can negatively affect the character, increase weight and even provoke cancer. In fact, modern hormonal drugs do not have such a detrimental effect on the body and help bring weight back to normal. But the safety of their use directly depends on how correctly the drug is selected and prescribed.

AT modern society all more girls and women prefer to take birth control pills, as this method of contraception has significant advantages over other methods of preventing unwanted pregnancies.

In the vastness of our country, taking contraceptives in pills is not yet as popular as in the West. BUT in developed European countries, women have been practicing this for a long time.

All more women starts using birth control pills

For example, according to recent surveys of women living in France, about 75-80% of them have tried or regularly take birth control pills.

At the beginning of the article we will list the most common birth control pills(names) and their approximate cost in Russia, and in the future you will be able to learn more about the features of drugs, their composition, use, contraindications and other useful information on this topic.

List of birth control pills (names and approximate price)

Types and effects on the body of contraceptives

In the female body, a large number of hormones that influence and control the activity of the reproductive system. That's why in different periods life hormone ratio is different.

The tablets act on hormonal level, and for each category of women should take their own drugs.

Combined oral preparations (COCs)

The basis of the drugs are 2 synthetic hormones: estrogen and progesterone. Any of the groups COC works on the principle of blocking ovulation. Reliability is extremely high due to progesterone. Estrogen controls menstruation and does not affect pregnancy.

COC is divided into several groups. The classification is based on the characteristics of women: age, having a child, problems with the balance of hormones.

microdosed tablets. This group of contraceptives is intended for women who have not given birth, but are sexually active. Side effects of drugs are minimal. These birth control pills contain in their list such drugs as (abbreviated names): Qlaira, Jace, Dimia.

Klayra's blisters contain several types of tablets, which must be taken strictly according to the instructions. With pills 2 hormones enter the body - estradiol valerate and dienogest. They suppress ovulation. Dienogest has a positive effect on the appearance of a woman. The price of the drug is from 700 rubles.

James is a remedy with main and additional tablets. Main 24, and additional 4. The drug suppresses ovulation. The cost is about 1 thousand rubles.

Dimia is an analogue of James for the same cost. The active substances of the drug are different.

Low dose birth control pills. Used by women who did not fit microdose tablets:

• the presence of discharge with blood;
• after the birth of a child;
• late reproductive period.

The drugs of the group include: Yarina, Janine, Silhouette.

Yarina is taken for 21 days in the order indicated in the instructions. Tablets "Yarina" can not be combined with other drugs, because it reduces reliability and causes bleeding. It costs from 950 rubles.

Jeanine is an expensive drug, the price starts from 1650 rubles, depending on the place of purchase. Produced in Germany.

tablets contain substances that have beneficial effect on the gastric mucosa and the woman's body as a whole.

High dosage tablets. As a contraceptive during hormonal imbalances, it is recommended to take such contraceptive pills (list of abbreviated names): Tri-regol, Triquilar, Triziston.
Tri-Regol costs 200 rubles. There are cheap alternatives.

Triziston is produced in Germany. The action of the drug is aimed at inhibiting the production of gonadotropic hormones.. Price - from 500 rubles. Active substances begin to act on the body after 2 hours.

Note! High-dose drugs should be taken only as directed by a doctor!

Contraceptives with gestagen

Signs for use:

• lactation period;
• recent childbirth or the period of late reproductive age;
• regular sex life;
• estrogen is contraindicated;
• smoking and age over 35 years.

Preparations with a progestogen are called "mil-drank." The list of popular names for these contraceptive pills is: Desogestrel, Desogestrel.

Tablets without hormones

In the preparations of this group there are no hormones, they are injected directly into the vagina. Non-hormonal pills sometimes referred to as spermicides- candles, gels, creams.

Active substance not hormonal drugs- benzalkonium chloride or nonoxynol. Their goal is to destroy the sperm membrane, which prevents pregnancy.

A list of such contraceptives (names in abbreviated form): Gynekotex, Pharmatex, Postinor, Escapel.

The latest generation of contraceptives

Modern contraceptives of the new generation not only have a hormonal effect on the reproductive system, but also create an aggressive environment for spermatozoa.

The scheme of action also has an abortive component, at which spermatozoa are affected active substance drug and die.

The less synthetic hormones in the preparation that affect the implantation of the embryo, the higher the abortive effect in the preparation.

Doses of the active substance fluctuate - if the drug contains a small amount of a substance that kills spermatozoa, then a large amount of the hormone to affect the embryo.

Unwanted pregnancy is prevented stepwise - in 2 stages.

The new generation of contraceptive pills is represented by such drugs as (abbreviated list of names): Jess and Jess plus, Marvelon, Novaring, Depo-Prover.

Correct use of contraceptives with hormones

The main rules for taking most drugs:

• daily intake;
• it is desirable to take the drug at the same time;
• reception lasts 21 or 28 days (depending on the specific drug);
• on the foil of the package there is a pointer, according to which the pills are taken;
• after 7 or 21 days, a reaction will follow that resembles menstruation.

Features of taking drugs 21 days

Some contraceptives take 21 days. They begin to drink after the first day of menstruation.. After the end of the reception, a break of 7 days is made. Protection during this period is not required.

Contraceptive pills for 21 days are represented by the following list of names: Novinet, Yarina, Lindinet 20, Midiana, Rigevidon.

Contraceptive 28 days

Birth control pills that take 28 days are a popular remedy for Jess.

Before you start taking contraceptive hormonal drugs, you should consult a gynecologist. It's connected with different amount synthetic hormones in preparations and how they will affect a woman's body both when taken and subsequently.

Not all pills are suitable for all women. In addition, there are certain risks that should be discussed with a qualified doctor.

Undesirable effects of drugs on the body and the prohibition of their use

Careful consideration should be given to possible side effects taking this or that drug in order to avoid health complications.

Most of the side effects include:

• lack of menstruation;
• depression, including loss of attraction to men as sexual partners;
• vaginal discharge not during menstruation;
• pain in the head and blurred vision;
• unstable blood pressure;
• change in body weight.

If the above symptoms are observed, then you should immediately consult a doctor who prescribed the drug. He will conduct an examination and, if necessary, replace the drug.

Should know! Some side effects are observed only during the first 4 months of admission.

You should immediately consult a doctor if:

• poisoning;
• breathing problems;
• pain in the body;
• problems with speech or vision.

All drugs have contraindications to varying degrees:

• current pregnancy;
• liver problems;
• problems with the cardiovascular system;
• smoking;
• age over 35 years;
• diabetes;
• breast cancer;
• liver disease.

Emergency contraception and hormone-free products

Emergency contraception differs from interruption in that the first is carried out at ovulation. That is at the time of the meeting of the sperm and the egg, they are affected by special preparations.

Their goal is to prevent the meeting or prevent the fixation of the encountered zygote in the uterus. For the action of such drugs, only 6 days: 3 days the egg moves to the uterus and 3 days the fixation.

If time is lost, then come resort to abortion at an early stage.

Arguments for and against birth control pills

Every issue has its positives and negatives. With protection from unwanted pregnancy is similar. The arguments for the use of birth control pills are as follows:

• almost one hundred percent efficiency;
• the possibility of application in any age category;
• comfort during intercourse;
• stabilization of hormonal balance in a woman's body.

However, there is also Arguments AGAINST using birth control pills:

• in the presence of contraindications or the manifestation of side effects, taking pills is prohibited;
• possible complications after taking, up to the occurrence of oncological diseases;
• pills remove some vitamins from the body;
• the risk of glaucoma;
• the risk of developing diseases of the genital organs;
• risk of hormonal failure, weight and mood changes.

If we weigh the pros and cons, the advice of experts and the opinions of women, it is worth noting that taking birth control pills on a regular basis is recommended only after childbirth. Since this excludes the possibility negative impact on the female body and future pregnancy.

According to doctors and psychotherapists, abortion is a serious step that a woman should take only in extreme circumstances.

It is easier to prevent unwanted egg fertilization by creating unacceptable conditions for sperm inside the vagina than to regularly take birth control pills with possible risk deterioration in women's health.

And of course, regardless of age and state of health, every representative of the beautiful half of humanity, be sure to consult a doctor before taking any medications, even if they are claimed to be safe.

This video will tell you about the dangers of birth control pills:

The following video will tell you about oral pills and the rules for taking them:

You can learn about the effect of birth control pills from this video:

For many of us, the term "hormonal drugs" sounds threatening. In the concept of most people who are not related to medicine and pharmaceuticals, hormones are pills of monstrous power that bring a lot of the same monstrous side effects.

What are these fears based on? And if hormones are so harmful, why are they so widely used? Let's try to figure out together what hormonal pills actually are.

Classification

Hormonal medicines contain hormones or substances that have properties similar to hormones (hormonoids). Hormones are produced in endocrine glands human and spread with the bloodstream to various organs and systems, regulating the vital functions of the body.

Hormonal drugs can be conditionally divided into hormone preparations:

• pituitary.
  These include chorionic gonadotropin and known, probably, to every woman oxytocin;

• thyroid gland.
  These funds are used to treat insufficient production of their own hormones (for example, with hypothyroidism) and the opposite condition - excessive production of hormones;

• pancreas.
  Most known remedies this group - insulin preparations;

• parathyroid glands;

• adrenal cortex.
  This group includes glucocorticosteroids, which are widely used in many branches of medicine as anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and analgesic agents;

• sex hormones: estrogens, gestagens, androgens;

• anabolic agents.

What is treated with hormonal pills?

Despite the very wary attitude towards hormonal drugs on the part of patients, we can safely say that these drugs are extremely necessary and important. Often, only hormonal drugs are able to provide a chronically ill person with a decent quality of life, and sometimes save life itself.

Therapy with hormonal pills is necessary for:

— oral contraception;

- replacement hormone therapy in postmenopausal women and in older men suffering from a lack of testosterone;

– treatment of inflammatory and allergic diseases;

- treatment of hormonal deficiency.
These pathologies include hypothyroidism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Addison's disease, and other diseases;

- treatment of many oncological diseases.

Oral contraception. Achievements of modern medicine

The first studies that initiated the development of hormonal contraceptives were carried out as early as 1921. Ten years later, scientists have already accurately figured out the structure of steroid hormones and found that high doses of sex hormones inhibit, that is, block ovulation.

The first combined hormonal contraceptive was released in 1960 by American pharmacists. It contained really high doses of hormones, and therefore had not only a contraceptive, but also a lot of side effects.

Over time, the situation has changed dramatically. In the 90s of the last century, hormoneoids were synthesized, which, along with high activity, have excellent tolerance. That's why modern women may not worry about the extra pounds gained as a result of taking hormonal birth control pills. This side effect is a thing of the past along with shock doses active ingredients contained in the first contraceptives.

The effectiveness of all contraceptives is assessed using the Pearl Index, which determines the likelihood of pregnancy within one year with constant use of drugs. On average, the Pearl Index of hormonal contraceptives ranges from 0.3% to 2-3%. The maximum value of this indicator reaches 8%.

If a woman is of average fertility and does not get pregnant from her husband's toothbrushes, the chance of pregnancy rarely exceeds 1%. Of course, subject to the daily use of tablets.

But let's get back to classifications. Modern hormonal contraceptives can be:

1. combined;

2. non-combined (mini-drank);

3. pills for emergency contraception.

Let's try to figure out how these groups differ.

1. Combined hormonal contraceptives: COC

Behind the funny abbreviation COC are very serious drugs that are the most popular modern contraceptives. All COCs include two active ingredients - estrogen and progestogen. Ethinyl estradiol is used as an estrogen, and levonorgestrel, norgestrel, desogestrel and other synthetic hormones can act as a progestogen.

The dose of ethinylestradiol in modern COCs is much lower than in the first "killer" pills. Because of this, when taking new drugs, the side effects of estrogen are rarely developed: weight gain, breast tenderness, and nausea.

Monophasic COCs have constant dose estrogen and progestin in each of the tablets. Despite the fact that during the menstrual cycle the concentration of hormones in a woman's body is not constant, monophasic contraceptives are a strictly defined dose that comes daily.

Biphasic contraceptives contain two types of pills in one package. The main difference between tablets of the second type is the increased content of gestogen, which is also characteristic of the physiological cycle.

However, three-phase COCs are traditionally considered the most adapted to the menstrual cycle. They include three groups of tablets. The concentration of active substances in each group approaches the content of estrogens and progestogens in a certain phase of the menstrual cycle. The first group of tablets mimics follicular phase, which lasts 5 days, the second - periovulatory, the duration of which is 6 days and the last - luteal, the longest 10-day phase. At the same time, the concentration of estrogen in three-phase COCs, as well as in the menstrual cycle, is maximum, and the level of progestogen increases from the first phase to the third.

Pharmacology: how do hormonal birth control pills work?

The contraceptive effect of all hormonal contraceptive pills, regardless of composition and dosage, is based on blocking the release of hormones responsible for ovulation and implantation. The ovaries practically “fall asleep”, decreasing in size. Ultimately hormonal pills:

• suppress ovulation;
• change properties cervical mucus. As a result of this effect cervical canal becomes a real barrier for nimble sperm;
• change the state of the endometrium, as a result of which the "lining" inner surface The uterus does not allow the egg to be implanted if fertilization does occur.

How to take hormonal birth control pills?

The answer to the question of how to take hormonal pills that protect against pregnancy can be expressed in one single word: regularly. Depending on the period for which the course is designed - 21 or 28 days - the tablets should be used once a day during the entire period of treatment, and preferably at the same time.

An important question that worries most women taking COCs is what to do if the patient forgot to take the pill on time. First, don't panic. The situation is solvable and, in general, very commonplace.

Secondly, the missed pill should be taken immediately after memory recovery. Take the next pill as scheduled, even if you have to take two pills at the same time.

Thirdly, it is necessary to evaluate the period during which a woman forgot about the need to protect herself. The following actions depend on the "statute of limitations".

If the delay is no more than 12 hours, you can calm down - the effectiveness of contraception will remain the same, that is, close to 100%. If this period lasted more than 12 hours, you will have to use additional methods protection, such as barrier or spermicidal.

Monophasic COCs: effectiveness and popularity

The most popular and common hormonal contraceptives are monophasic drugs. Many gynecologists believe that these are the best hormonal pills for women under the age of 35, and patient reviews confirm this.

Monophasic contraceptives contain pills of the same color. Despite the fact that a strict scheme for the use of tablets can be applied to the package (usually in a queue), this does not carry a special semantic load. And if you manage to drink at the very beginning of the cycle a pill intended for use, say, on day 25, absolutely nothing bad will happen - after all, all pills have the same composition.

Most of the COCs that the Russian pharmaceutical market is saturated with are monophasic. The choice of drugs is so great that even experienced gynecologists sometimes hesitate before prescribing the drug to patients. Therefore, we will consider only those hormonal pills that can be classified as "new", modern means.

The German drug Logest, which is produced by the well-known company SCHERING, S.A., contains 20 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol and 75 micrograms of gestodene. The product is available in a pack of 21 tablets. Logest is an excellent drug for young women.

Lindinet

Hormonal pills Lindinet 20 are complete analogue German Logest. The preparations have the same composition, and the only difference can be considered color - Lindinet tablets have a pale yellow shell. The manufacturer of Lindinet is the Hungarian company GEDEON RICHTER.

Lindinet 30 differs from its counterpart only in the dosage of estrogen (30 mcg).

Hormonal tablets Janine manufactured by SCHERING contain 30 μg of ethinyl estradiol and 2 mg of progestogen (dienogest). The Pearl Index with regular intake of Jeanine does not exceed 1%.

The main difference between Zhanin and other COCs is the antiandrogenic activity that dienogest has. Therefore, Janine is prescribed to patients with elevated levels of male sex hormones. In addition, hypocholesterolemic, that is, the cholesterol-lowering effect of dienogest, has been proven.

The German drug Yarina is one of the most popular monophasic hormonal contraceptive pills. The medicine contains 30 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 3 mg of drospirenone.

The properties of Yarina and Zhanin are very similar. Yarina helps to reduce the level of high density lipoproteins and has an antiandrogenic effect. Thanks to this quality, Yarina is also considered a remedy for acne: hormonal tablets are prescribed as part of complex therapy acne. The drug helps to reduce the production of sebum and reduce the manifestations of the disease.

Among the very famous hormonal contraceptives in tablets is Diane-35, which is produced by SCHERING. The drug contains 35 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 2 mg of the antiandrogenic progestogen cyproterone acetate.

Diana has a pronounced antiandrogenic activity, which makes it possible to prescribe it for the treatment of acne and seborrhea. In addition, Diane-35 is the drug of choice for contraception in women who have mild manifestations of hirsutism - excessive hair growth.

Among the tablets with antiandrogenic activity, the popular hormonal contraceptive Jess occupies a special place. It contains 20 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 3 mg of drospirenone. The gestagen, which is part of Jess, eliminates the side effects of estrogen. In this regard, the remedy is very well tolerated, and swelling and weight gain are practically excluded.

In addition, drospirenone softens the manifestations of premenstrual syndrome, including the pronounced one. To all the positive properties of Jess, you can add favorable influence on the level of cholesterol, which manifests itself in an increase in the concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). But it is HDL that removes excess cholesterol from the body.

Among the COCs containing drospirenone is also the Hungarian hormonal Midian tablets. They differ from Jess only more high content ethinylestradiol, the dose of which is 30 mcg.

Among low-dose COCs, it is also worth noting the hormonal tablets Rigevidon, Femoden, Novinet, Minisiston, Microgynon, Regulon.

The list of monophasic contraceptives registered in Russia is far from exhausted. However, they are used much less often, so we will immediately move on to the next categories of COCs.

Table "Monophasic COCs":

Two-phase and three-phase COC: time-tested

As we have already said, two- and three-phase hormonal contraceptives act more physiologically. Nevertheless, most often doctors prefer to use the first group of drugs. What caused it?

The fact is that changes in the concentration of hormones are associated with an inevitable increase in the dose of active substances. As a result, the side effects of biphasic and triphasic drugs are more pronounced than low-dose monophasic drugs.

Biphasic COCs are among the rarely used drugs. Among them there are funds whose names are often unusual even for a pharmacist, not to mention the patients - Anteovin, Nuvelle, Orfo-Novum, Bi-Novum.

Three-phase contraceptives are more famous and popular. However, the disadvantages in the form of standard side effects are no less pronounced than in biphasic drugs. Three-phase COCs are easy to "calculate" by the name, which, as a rule, begins with "three": Triziston, Triquilar, Tri-merci, Tri-regol, Trister.

Tablets of two- and three-phase hormonal contraceptives are painted in different colors depending on the composition: in two-phase preparations - in two colors, and in three-phase preparations - in three. It is necessary to take such medicines strictly according to the scheme. Usually, the KOC consignment is full of various arrows and other bright marks designed to help a woman deal with the peculiarities of using multi-colored pills. After all, if you inadvertently confuse the color of the pills, the contraceptive effect is reduced.

Useful contraceptives? Benefits of COC

Oral contraceptives are designed not only to carry out direct, contraceptive action. They have many others, often no less important indications, among which:

- treatment of menstrual irregularities and PMS.
The use of COC helps to normalize the cycle, reduce blood loss during menstruation, as well as reduce premenstrual syndrome;

– treatment of acne, seborrhea and acne.
As part of complex therapy dermatological diseases in women, COCs with an antiandrogenic effect are often included. Hormonal tablets significantly reduce the synthesis of sebum, helping to reduce the manifestations of acne. In patients suffering from seborrhea who take COCs, the level of sebum is normalized and hair loss is noticeably reduced;

– prevention benign diseases breast and pelvic organs.
COCs inhibit ovarian stimulation by follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones. Therefore, regular use of hormonal contraceptive pills significantly reduces the risk of developing functional cysts and benign nodes in the mammary glands;

- prevention of ovarian cancer and endometrial carcinoma.
With regular use of oral contraceptives, the risk of ovarian cancer is reduced by as much as 40%. This protection lasts even 15 years after the end of taking hormonal pills. The longer you take a COC, the longer it takes for the anti-cancer effect to show.

And that is not all. The chance of developing endometrial adenocarcinoma (uterine cancer) in women treated with hormonal birth control pills is reduced by 50%. The protective effect persists for 15 years after stopping the use of COCs.

Negative aspects of combined hormones

We are being disingenuous if we say that COCs are exceptionally healthy drugs. In the process of treatment with hormonal contraceptive pills, sometimes it is impossible to avoid adverse effects. To negative aspects COCs include:

- the likelihood of developing side effects, including nausea, breakthrough bleeding, increased sensitivity and breast enlargement. However, some ladies use hormonal pills just to increase the bust, so sometimes this effect can be attributed to positive qualities COOK;

- the need for regular daily use;

- the probability of delaying ovulatory cycles after the abolition of COCs.

When are hormonal contraceptives banned?

There are several conditions in which the use of any hormonal contraceptive pills is excluded. These pathologies include:

• cardiovascular diseases;
• deep vein thrombosis;
• diabetes mellitus with vascular complications;
• oncological diseases;
• abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• liver disease;
• age over 35;
• smoking.

Drugs containing drospirenone - Jess, Angelik and others - are also contraindicated in patients with diseases of the kidneys, adrenal glands or liver. This is due to the fact that drospirenone has an antimineralocorticoid effect.

Hormonal contraceptives and venous insufficiency: incompatibility #1

Many women know that hormonal pills are not recommended for varicose veins and are categorically contraindicated for thrombophlebitis. But the answer to the question of what such a ban is connected with is unknown to most patients.

It turns out that the constant component of all hormonal birth control pills - estrogen - activates the mechanism of blood clotting, resulting in an increased risk of blood clots. It is known that modern drugs with low estrogen levels are associated with a low risk of thromboembolism, while high-dose hormonal pills are the opposite.

In addition, the likelihood of blood clots is significantly increased in women who smoke, patients with high blood cholesterol, severe diabetes, hypertension or obesity.

2. Mini-pill: special hormonal contraceptives

Under the affectionate and usually little-understood name "mini-drank" are hormonal contraceptive pills containing only one component - progestogen. Moreover, the dose of the active substance in the mini-pill is really minimal.

Mini-pill hormonal tablets can be prescribed to patients over 35 years of age, including after 40, as well as to women with diabetes. Even breastfeeding is not an obstacle to the use of these drugs. However, mini-pills have a lower Pearl Index compared to COCs. In addition, drugs in this group can cause intermenstrual bleeding, the appearance of cysts in the ovaries, and even ectopic pregnancy.

Note that the contraceptive effect of mini-pills is reduced if taken at different times of the day. This shortcoming often finally tips the scales in the direction of combined hormonal pills.

Among the mini-drinks, we will name several drugs registered in Russia: Norgestrel, Levonorgestrel, Linestrenol.

3. Urgent contraception: when you can not wait

Hormonal preparations of emergency contraception are a kind of emergency pills in case of unforeseen circumstances. They hurried, forgot, broke, did not find, and other verbs in the past tense can briefly describe the standard reasons why women begin to rush about in search of miracle cures for all problems.

And, of course, there are such drugs. They contain high doses of hormones that either prevent ovulation if trouble occurs in the first half of the cycle, or change the state of the endometrium if fertilization does occur.

The best known emergency contraceptives include Postinor, Microlute and Escapelle. These pills should be used as little as possible - after all, the hormonal surge that occurs after taking the drugs is akin to a blow. And no organism can stand if it is beaten with high doses of hormones regularly.

Down with self-activity!

All hormonal contraceptives, including pills, are exclusively prescription drugs. And it is no coincidence. After all, an incorrectly selected medicine can easily cause menstrual irregularities and other gynecological troubles.

So if you decide to take hormonal remedy, the first person who should about it find out doctor obstetrician-gynecologist. Remember: the right to choose a hormonal contraceptive should be given not to a neighbor, not to a friend on the forum, and not even to a pharmacist, but to a doctor.

Menopause: if there is little estrogen

Unfortunately, menopause brings with it a host of clinical symptoms that are hard to miss. Classic Symptoms menopause is characterized by an irregular or non-existent menstrual cycle. In 60% of women sharp drop estrogen levels lead to vascular disorders, which are manifested by hot flashes, sweating and increased heart rate.

Other, no less vivid symptoms are possible. After all, it is estrogens that provide sufficient hydration of the vagina and regulate urination. Until the woman's body adapts to the new hormonal background, inevitable and neurological manifestations of menopause: depression, insomnia, mood swings.

An extremely dangerous consequence of the onset of menopause is a catastrophic decrease in bone mass. As a result, a disease associated with bone fragility, osteoporosis, develops.

If no action is taken, these manifestations can poison a woman's life for many years. However, the body can be "cheated" if such necessary estrogens are introduced from the outside. And this can be done with the help of hormonal pills, which for some reason are so afraid of some patients. Is the game worth the candle? Let's figure it out together.

Add estrogen: hormonal preparations in tablets

Hormonal pills that are used during menopause may contain:

• estrogen only;
• a combination of estrogen and progesterone;
• combination of estrogen, progesterone and androgen.

The most popular drugs are estrogen. Hormonal pills are taken constantly, that is, daily, or in cycles of several weeks.

In most cases these medicines contain the so-called conjugated estrogen, which is obtained from the urine of mares. Among them, we note Estrofeminal, Premarin and Hormoplex. All these drugs are used cyclically for 21 days, followed by a week break.

Biphasic products

These pills consist of two components - estrogen and gestagen.

Divina- a drug manufactured by the Finnish company Orion. The first group of tablets contains only estradiol at a dose of 2 mg, and the second - a combination of 2 mg of estradiol valeriate and 10 mg of progestogen (medroxyprogesterone).

Klimonorm- German medicine of the Bayer corporation. The main difference from Divina lies in the gestagen: 0.15 mg of levonorgestrel is used as a progesterone-containing component in Klimonorm.

Klymen contains the same 2 mg of estradiol and 1 mg of cyproterone (gestagen).

In addition, at Russian gynecologists other hormonal replacement pills are no less popular, including Cyclo-proginova, Femoston, Divitren, Angelik.

Triphasic hormonal pills

These drugs are designed for continuous use and include three groups of tablets: the first and third contain estrogens, the latter at a lower dose, and the second group includes a combination of estrogen and progestogen.

In Russia, only two three-phase drugs are registered - Trisikvens and Trisikvens forte.

Hormone replacement pills: contraindications and side effects

Hormone therapy during menopause is contraindicated in breast or endometrial cancer, severe liver disease, thrombophlebitis, endometriosis, fibroids.

Side effects of hormone therapy include mood swings, breast engorgement, and intermenstrual bleeding.

And the last. Before the appointment of hormone replacement pills, a thorough examination of the woman is carried out, which includes general analysis urine, blood sugar test and lipid profile blood, ultrasound of the pelvic organs, ECG, cytological examination of cervical scraping and mammography. And if replacement therapy is not contraindicated, the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Hormones to treat inflammation: why do we need glucocorticoids?

A separate group of hormonal pills is glucocorticosteroids (GC). They have three properties at the same time: anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and analgesic. This unique triad is the basis for the widespread use of glucocorticoids in almost all areas of medicine.

Synthetic hormonal pills containing HA are constantly taken with autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

It is impossible to do without hormonal pills containing HA in the treatment of allergic diseases, including bronchial asthma. Glucocorticoids are able to reduce the inflammatory response and counteract the activity of immune cells that are involved in the pathological process. Most often, HA is administered by inhalation, but in some severe cases use hormonal preparations in tablets and ampoules.

Glucocorticoids are certainly included in the treatment of oncological diseases. Their main purpose is to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. In addition, hormonal pills can help in the destruction cancer cells with lymphoblastic leukemia, Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

Glucocorticoid tablets

Most often, several tableted glucocorticoids are used.

The drug effectively reduces inflammation by suppressing the function of leukocytes. Interestingly, the anti-inflammatory effect of Dexamethasone is 30 times higher than the activity of another HA - hydrocortisone.

Dexamethasone tablets are indicated for the hormonal treatment of Addison's disease, hypothyroidism, bronchial asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, nonspecific ulcerative colitis, eczema, malignant tumors in advanced stages.

The dosage of Dexamethasone is selected individually.

The drug is an analogue of hydrocortisone. Prednisolone is able to influence all stages of the inflammatory process and have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.

There are really a lot of indications for the use of Prednisolone tablets - hormonal treatment is prescribed for systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, joint diseases, bronchial asthma, cancer, adrenal insufficiency, allergies, autoimmune pathologies and many others.

The drug produced by the Polish plant Polfa contains triamcinolone HA at a dose of 4 mg. The main indications of Polcortolone include diseases of the joints, allergic pathologies that are difficult to treat, rheumatic, dermatological, hematological, oncological and other diseases.

Side effects of glucocorticoids

HAs have truly unique qualities. Therefore, glucocorticoids could be called healing drugs, if not for the side effects. Due to the large number of adverse events associated with treatment, long-term use of these drugs can even be dangerous.

We list the most common side effects of hormonal tablets of the glucocorticoid group:

• decreased immunity;
• increase in blood sugar levels. At long-term treatment GC may develop diabetes mellitus;
• decreased calcium absorption, which can lead to osteoporosis - dangerous disease bone tissue;
• amyotrophy;
• increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood;
• mood changes, depression, memory impairment, in severe cases - psychosis;
• gastritis and peptic ulcer;
• violation of the menstrual cycle, decreased libido;
• slow wound healing;
• weight gain.

Another extremely unpleasant side of corticosteroids is the withdrawal syndrome: after stopping long-term use hormonal pills, there is a possibility of pronounced side effects. To avoid such a development of events, drugs should be canceled smoothly, gradually reducing the dose over a certain period of time.

Hormonal deficiency: when you can not do without pills?

To the most common pathologies requiring permanent reception hormonal drugs include thyroid disease.

Thyroid deficiency - hypothyroidism - a common disease in which the production of hormones is reduced. Treatment is based primarily on compensation for the lack of hormones. To do this, prescribe hormonal tablets, which include levothyroxine sodium.

Levothyroxine sodium is the levorotatory isomer of thyroxine. It is a synthetic analog of the thyroid hormone. Thyroxine is the first-line drug for hypothyroidism, euthyroid goiter, and after removal or resection of the thyroid gland.

Despite the fact that thyroxine is a hormonal drug, there are practically no side effects when prescribing the correct dosage according to indications.

Hormones in oncology: when drugs save lives

Hormone therapy in oncology, along with chemotherapy, is one of the main medical methods cancer treatment. Hormone treatment is used for several types of hormonally sensitive tumors, including breast, prostate, endometrial (uterine cancer), and adrenal cortex.

Most drugs that are used to treat hormonal dependent tumors, inhibit, that is, block the release of hormones. These drugs include one of the most famous drugs for the treatment of breast cancer - Tamoxifen.

Many drugs can reduce the production of other hormones that are responsible for growth. malignancy. Often hormonal treatment is almost the only possibility fight the tumor and prolong the life of the patient.

Hormonal pills are a whole pharmaceutical world in which there is a place for efficiency, uniqueness, and side effects. And only doctors can untie this tangled tangle of complex concepts, indications and contraindications. Then a properly prescribed remedy turns out to be the right path to a fulfilling life.