One-A-Day Women Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term

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Generic name: multivitamin with minerals

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 3, 2023.

Note: This document contains side effect information about multivitamin with minerals. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name One-A-Day Women.

Applies to multivitamin with minerals: oral tablet. Other dosage forms:

• oral capsule, oral liquid, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable
• oral capsule
• oral miscellaneous
• oral wafer

Serious side effects of One-A-Day Women

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your
doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing;
  tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue,
  or throat.
• Very upset stomach or throwing up.
• Severe diarrhea.
• Very bad constipation.
• Muscle weakness.
• Numbness and tingling.

Other side effects of One-A-Day Women

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical
help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Upset stomach or throwing up.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical
advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

More about One-A-Day Women (multivitamin with minerals)

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Drug images
• Dosage information
• Drug class: vitamin and mineral combinations

Patient resources

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Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation and Deficiency

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer

One-A-Day Womens Formula Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Warnings:

Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children younger than 6 years. Keep this product out of reach of children. If overdose does occur, get medical help right away or call a poison control center.

Warnings:

Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children younger than 6 years. Keep this product out of reach of children. If overdose does occur, get medical help right away or call a poison control center.

… Show More

Uses

This medication is a multivitamin and iron product used to treat or prevent vitamin deficiency due to poor diet, certain illnesses, or during pregnancy. Vitamins and iron are important building blocks of the body and help keep you in good health.

How to use One-A-Day WOMEN’s

Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily or as directed. Follow all directions on the product package, or take as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dosage. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is best taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Take with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food. Avoid taking antacids, dairy products, tea, or coffee within 2 hours before or after this medication because they may decrease its effectiveness. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the tablets or capsules. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details for your particular brand.

If you are taking the delayed-release form or extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew delayed-release or extended-release products. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects and decreasing absorption. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Side Effects

Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Iron may cause your stools to turn black, an effect that is not harmful.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as soy found in some brands), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: iron overload disorder (such as hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis), use/abuse of alcohol, liver problems, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcer, colitis).

If your brand of multivitamin also contains folic acid, be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia) before taking it. Folic acid may affect certain laboratory tests for vitamin B12 deficiency without treating this anemia. Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency may result in serious nerve problems (such as peripheral neuropathy). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also How To Use section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

This product can decrease the absorption of other drugs such as bisphosphonates (for example, alendronate), levodopa, penicillamine, quinolone antibiotics (for example, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), thyroid medications (for example, levothyroxine), and tetracycline antibiotics (for example, doxycycline, minocycline). Separate your doses of these medications as far as possible from your doses of this product. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how long you should wait between doses and for help finding a dosing schedule that will work with all your medications.

If your brand of multivitamin also contains folic acid, be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take certain anti-seizure drugs (such as hydantoins such as phenytoin).

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests, possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does One-A-Day WOMEN’s interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, do not share it with others.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Some brands may also contain ingredients such as docusate. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about the ingredients in your brand.

This product is not a substitute for a proper diet. Remember that it is best to get your vitamins and minerals from healthy foods. Maintain a well-balanced diet and follow any dietary guidelines as directed by your doctor.

If you are taking this product on a prescribed schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

One-A-Day Womens Formula 18 mg iron-400 mcg-500 mg Ca tablet

Color: yellowShape: oblongImprint: ONE A DAY and logo

This medicine is a yellow, oblong, tablet imprinted with “ONE A DAY and logo”.

One-A-Day Womens Formula 18 mg iron-400 mcg-500 mg Ca tablet

Color: yellowShape: oblongImprint: logo

This medicine is a yellow, oblong, tablet imprinted with “ONE A DAY and logo”.

One-A-Day Womens Formula 18 mg iron-400 mcg-500 mg Ca tablet

Color: yellowShape: oblongImprint: logo

This medicine is a yellow, oblong, tablet imprinted with “ONE A DAY and logo”.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

action, use and side effects

Letrozole is an effective medicine for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. With the help of letrozole, it is possible to significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence of the disease and increase the chances of survival. However, before using the drug, it is necessary to consult a doctor and familiarize yourself with possible side effects.

Letrozole is an antiestrogen drug used in oncology to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It blocks the production of estrogen, which can promote the growth of cancer cells.

Letrozole is used only under medical supervision and by prescription.

The drug is taken once a day, usually at a dose of 2.5 mg. The duration of admission is determined by the doctor and can range from several months to several years.

Like all medicines, Letrozole can cause side effects. Among them:

dizziness, sleep disturbances, increased fatigue, muscle pain, arthralgia, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, erectile dysfunction, depression, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspepsia, skin rashes.

Tell your doctor if you notice any of these effects. It will help determine how to proceed.

It is important to remember that Letrozole may be dangerous for pregnant women. Therefore, the drug should be stopped if you become pregnant while taking it or plan to become pregnant.

Letrozole

Letrozole is an effective drug used in oncology to treat breast tumors in postmenopausal women. It belongs to the group of aromatase inhibitors and helps reduce estrogen levels in the body, which blocks tumor growth.

Letrozole is taken as a tablet once a day. The correct dosage and mode of taking the drug should be determined by the doctor. To achieve the maximum effect, the drug is taken over a long period of time.

Letrozole has a number of side effects that may include dizziness, fatigue, excessive sweating, sleep disturbances, muscle and bone disease. If you notice any unusual symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor.

Before starting the use of Letrozole, a complete examination and advice from an experienced specialist should be obtained. According to medical research, the use of Letrozole helps to reduce the size of breast tumors and improve the quality of life of patients.

• Helps reduce estrogen levels in the body;
• Aromatase inhibitor;
• Taken as tablets once a day;
• Has a number of side effects;
• Complete examination required prior to use.

What is Letrozole?

Letrozole is a drug often used in the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Its main active ingredient is letrozole.

Letrozole is an inhibitor of aromatase, an enzyme that converts male hormones (androgens) into female hormones (estrogens). With breast cancer, the level of estrogen in a woman’s body can be very high and contribute to the development of the disease. The use of Letrozole can reduce the level of estrogen in the blood and slow down the growth of the tumor.

In addition to its use in oncology, Letrozole is sometimes prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women with ovarian dysfunction.

It is important to remember that Letrozole should only be used under medical supervision. In some cases, side effects such as dizziness, nausea, joint and muscle pain, and an increased risk of osteoporosis may occur. Before you start using Letrozole, you must undergo a complete examination and consult with your doctor.

Action Letrozole

Letrozole is a drug that belongs to the class of aromatase inhibitors. It has an effect on the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for the formation of estrogen in women. Letrozole blocks the enzyme and thereby reduces the level of estrogen in the body.

Letrozole’s action is especially important for women with certain types of breast cancer. In some cases, breast cancer is estrogen dependent. Reducing their levels can delay or stop the development of breast tumors. Letrozole is also used to treat estrogen-dependent ovarian tumors and internal endometriosis.

Letrozole has been shown to be effective compared to other drugs in its class. It delivers fewer side effects than similar drugs and is highly effective in fighting breast cancer.

It is important to understand that Letrozole should not be used without the advice of a physician. It has serious side effects such as an increased risk of osteoporosis, hypercholesterolemia, and other bone damage.

How do I take Letrozole?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It interferes with the production of estrogen, a hormone that can promote tumor growth. For maximum effectiveness of the drug, you must follow some rules for use.

The main dosage of Letrozole is one tablet (2.5 mg) per day. The tablets should be taken at the same time every day, and the crush should not be missed. In case of violation of the dosage, you must consult a doctor.

The drug is taken orally with a small amount of water. The tablets can be taken with or without food. It is not recommended to divide the tablets into smaller doses.

If side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Be aware that Letrozole is a serious drug that must be used properly. To determine the required dosage and duration of treatment, you should consult a doctor.

How to use Letrozole in the treatment of cancer?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat hormone-dependent cancers. It belongs to a class of aromatase inhibitors that help reduce estrogen levels in the body, which is especially important in the treatment of breast cancer.

In order to use Letrozole correctly, you must follow your doctor’s instructions. Usually, the drug is prescribed at 2.5 mg once a day, while it is taken for several years.

Be aware that this drug may cause side effects including decreased bone density, joint and muscle pain, low mood, dizziness and depression. Therefore, if you develop any unwanted symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

It should be noted that Letrozole is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation, as it may be toxic to the fetus or breast milk. Also, do not use this drug in combination with some other medicines, so it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting a course of treatment.

In general, Letrozole is effective in the treatment of hormone-dependent tumors, but should only be used as directed by your doctor and strictly following the instructions.

Indications for use of Letrozole

Letrozole is indicated for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer in women in the postoperative period. It may also be prescribed to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women if primary treatment with tamoxifen has not worked.

In addition, Letrozole can be used to prolong the time to return of breast cancer after the main course of treatment.

Some doctors may also prescribe Letrozole to treat infertility in women who are estrogen deficient and cannot conceive despite suitable ovarian stimulation.

But remember that only a doctor can determine the correct dosage of Letrozole based on your body type, health condition, and other medications you may already be taking.

Contraindications for the use of Letrozole

Letrozole should not be used in the presence of the following diseases:

1. Allergic reaction to the drug – if the patient has allergic reactions to the drugs contained in Letrozole, it should be stopped immediately.
2. Liver disease – Letrozole can severely damage the liver and impair its function.
3. Kidney disease and adrenal insufficiency – People with these diseases should not take Letrozole due to possible side effects.

Also, letrozole is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women, children and adolescents under 18 years of age, menopausal women with osteoporosis and those who are under treatment for severe diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Contraindications:

What if I miss a dose of Letrozole?

Depending on how long you missed Letrozole, you may need a different approach.

If it’s been less than 12 hours since you were supposed to take Letrozole, just take it as soon as you remember.

However, if more than 12 hours have passed since you were supposed to take Letrozole by skipping it, the next dose should be taken at the usual time. Do not take an extra dose of Letrozole to make up for a missed one.

In case of doubt or questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

It is important that you take Letrozole regularly and as directed to get the best results from your breast cancer treatment.

What side effects can occur with Letrozole?

Letrozole is widely used to treat breast cancer in women, but like all medicines, it can have side effects. Below we have listed some of them:

• Dizziness or incoordination
• Pain in the muscles, bones or joints
• Stomach disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Weakening of hair on the head

9 0035 Taste changes

• Certain vision problems, including blurriness and sensitivity to light
• Serious skin reactions such as hives, itching and rashes

what to do next. Some side effects can be caused by other problems, so it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any problems.

In general, letrozole treatment can be an effective treatment for breast cancer in women, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and communicate with your healthcare professional to manage them if they occur.

How to avoid side effects when using Letrozole?

Letrozole is used to treat breast cancer in women. However, like any drug, Letrozole can have side effects that are harmful to the patient’s health.

To avoid side effects when using Letrozole, it is necessary to strictly observe the prescribed dosages, as well as take the drug at the indicated time. Do not take more than the indicated dose, and do not skip doses.

It is also important to pay attention to possible contraindications and limitations in the use of Letrozole. It is not recommended to take the drug to women during pregnancy and lactation, as well as in patients with liver or kidney disorders.

If you notice any side effects, you should immediately contact your doctor and stop taking Letrozole until a specific recommendation.

In general, proper dosage and exact following of the instructions for use will help to avoid side effects when using Letrozole and will significantly increase the effectiveness of treatment.

• Proper Dosage – Follow the recommended doses and do not exceed them.
• Follow instructions – take the drug at the indicated time and do not skip doses.
• Marked contraindications – Letrozole is not recommended in case of pregnancy, lactation and kidney or liver disease.
• Minor side effects of – it’s best to know about them in advance so you know when to see a doctor.

What is the composition of Letrozole?

Letrozole is a preparation with the active substance letrozole, which is used in oncology for the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The action of the drug is based on blocking the production of estrogens, which leads to a decrease in their level in the blood and a slowdown in the growth of tumors.

Letrozole also contains auxiliary components such as lactose monohydrate, corn starch, sodium carboxymethyl starch, magnesium stearate. All these ingredients are used to create a stable form of the drug and make it easier to take.

Letrozole is available as 2.5 mg tablets to be taken once daily after meals. The dosage and duration of administration are prescribed by the doctor, depending on the characteristics of the disease and the patient’s condition.

Letrozole may cause some side effects such as dizziness, nausea, weakness, fatigue. However, they usually go away after some time and do not require special treatment.

How much does Letrozole cost?

Letrozole is an effective drug used to treat cancer in women. The price of Letrozole may vary depending on the manufacturer, dosage and place of purchase.

In our pharmacy, Letrozole is available at an affordable price. We guarantee the quality of all our products and offer a convenient method of payment and delivery. Our Letrozole price starts at [insert price], which is a low and affordable price for most patients.

If you have any questions about Letrozole price or shipping options, please contact us. We will be happy to help you with any issue and offer the best solution.

Where can I buy Letrozole?

Letrozole is one of the most effective drugs for the treatment of breast cancer. This drug can be used both to prevent the development of tumor formations, and to treat already detected cancer cells.

If you want to buy Letrozole, it is best to contact specialized medical institutions. Also, the drug can be bought in some online stores specializing in the sale of medicines.

However, before buying Letrozole, you should definitely consult with your doctor. So you can make sure that this drug is really suitable for treating your disease, as well as solve the issue with the optimal dosage.

Do not self-medicate or buy a drug without a doctor’s prescription!

How to store Letrozole?

Store Letrozole in its original packaging at room temperature (max. 25°C), out of the reach of children.

Do not use Letrozole after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.

Avoid exposure to sunlight, freezing or heating.

Letrozole should not be made available for use by third parties, as it is prescribed for the treatment of an individual case and may lead to unwanted side effects.

If you have taken an opened pack of Letrozole for treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist for instructions on how to properly use the remaining dose.

How long can Letrozole be taken?

Letrozole is used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Its action is to reduce the level of estrogen in the body, which helps reduce the risk of cancer reappearance.

The course of treatment with Letrozole usually lasts from 5 to 10 years, but this depends on many factors and should be determined individually by the oncologist. It is important not to violate the recommendations of the doctor and take the drug according to the established scheme.

It is worth noting that Letrozole can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, sleep disturbance, decreased mood, etc. In case of any discomfort, you should consult a doctor to adjust the treatment.

In addition, Letrozole is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it may affect fetal development and pass into breast milk.

In general, Letrozole is an effective and safe drug when used correctly and regularly monitored by a physician. Therefore, if you are prescribed a course of treatment with Letrozole, you should strictly follow the instructions and do not stop it without the permission of your doctor.

What are Letrozole analogues?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It helps block the action of estrogen, which affects the growth of cancer cells.

If for some reason you cannot use Letrozole, there are several alternatives that may also be effective in fighting breast cancer. Some of them include:

• Anastrozole . This drug also helps block the effects of estrogen and is often used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
• Tamoxifen . This drug is also used to treat breast cancer, but instead of blocking the action of estrogen, it acts directly on the cancer cells.
• Fulvestrant . This drug helps to block the action of estrogen, but it works on a different level, it blocks the estrogen receptors in the breast.

It is important to seek the advice of your doctor so that he can help you choose the best treatment option for your individual case.

Letrozole is your reliable assistant in the fight against cancer

Cancer is one of the most dangerous and insidious diseases of our time. Fighting them requires great effort and knowledge from medical personnel, and the treatment process itself is often long and complicated. However, there are drugs that can speed up and calm this process, reduce its burden on the patient.

Letrozole is one such drug. It is used in the treatment of many forms of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Letrozole helps lower estrogen levels in the body, which can slow the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

In addition, Letrozole has a number of other useful properties. It allows you to lower blood cholesterol levels, as well as reduce the spread of osteoporosis, which is very important for postmenopausal women.

Of course, like any other medicine, Letrozole has its side effects. These may include symptoms associated with low estrogen levels, such as headaches, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and dizziness. However, these effects are rarely severe and often disappear over time with continued use of the drug.

So, if you are faced with the problem of cancer, do not despair. Letrozole is your reliable assistant in this fight. It will help reduce the risk of cancer cells coming back and improve your chances of recovery. Be sure to check with your doctor for more information about Letrozole.

Q&A:

What is Letrozole?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

How does Letrozole work?

Letrozole prevents the formation of estrogen in the woman’s body, which helps in the fight against cancer cells.

What are the contraindications for Letrozole?

Contraindications include liver or kidney complications, calcium imbalance in the blood, and an allergic reaction to drug components.

What are the dosages of Letrozole?

Dosages may vary depending on the condition of the patient and the stage of breast cancer. Usually prescribed 2.5 mg per day.

Can Letrozole be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, Letrozole is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it may harm both the fetus and the baby.

How often should I take Letrozole?

Letrozole is usually taken once a day, at the same time each day.

What are the possible side effects of Letrozole?

Side effects may include headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, bone and muscle pain, mood changes.

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Fomin’s clinic — a network of multidisciplinary clinics

There are many methods of hormonal contraception, it is not easy to understand them. In this article, we answer the most common questions and take a closer look at the pros, cons, and subtleties of using hormonal birth control.

All processes associated with childbirth in the female body are controlled by hormones. With the help of drugs that contain synthetic analogues of female hormones, pregnancy can be prevented even at the stage of egg maturation.

Modern hormonal contraceptives can do three things:

• do not allow the egg to leave the ovaries – that is, they stop ovulation;

• make the mucus in the cervix thick and sticky so that sperm cannot reach the egg and fertilize it;

• interfere with the growth of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) – as a result, the fertilized egg cannot be fixed in the uterus.

This is usually enough to prevent pregnancy. Women who use hormonal contraceptives do not need a condom “for insurance”, but to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. Hormonal contraceptives do not protect against germs.

The British Ministry of Health estimates that when used correctly, hormonal contraceptives are more than 99% effective. But even if you use them not quite according to the instructions (for example, take a pill at the wrong time, or skip taking one pill altogether), the result will still be quite reliable: about 91% efficiency.

It is important to understand that there is no 100% reliable method of contraception. Employees of the World Health Organization (WHO) calculated the proportion of couples who used hormonal contraceptives for a whole year in full accordance with existing recommendations – that is, according to instructions and regularly. Even in this case, 0.05-0.3% of women still became pregnant.

And this is a wonderful result. In comparison, the proportion of women who became pregnant while using a male condom was 2%. Sperm-killing vaginal suppositories and gels failed the owners in 18% of cases, and vaginal diaphragms, which were used together with gels, failed in 6% of cases.

As with any drug, hormonal contraceptives have side effects, but in most cases the benefits far outweigh the harm. For example, it has recently been found that birth control pills protect women from ovarian and endometrial cancer.

It is interesting that even a complete “cancellation of menstruation” does not harm the female body. It is even useful – if a woman suffered from endometriosis before taking contraceptives, hormonal contraceptives will help relieve symptoms.

But in order for contraception to be useful, an important condition must be observed: the drug must be chosen correctly. This should be done by a doctor.

No. For most women, the ability to have children is restored in the first month after giving up hormonal contraception.

The only exception is injectable contraception, which lasts 3-6 months. In order for the probability of conception to be higher, it is worth waiting 6-10 months from the moment of the last injection.

Hormonal contraceptives are divided into two large groups: progestin and combined, the latter include progestins and estrogens. Although drugs from both groups prevent pregnancy, they work in slightly different ways and have different side effects.

For example, in addition to protecting against unplanned pregnancy, combined drugs treat acne and reduce menstrual pain – but progestin drugs cause headaches more often, and they should not be used by smokers.

In addition, the difference in composition allows you to select a contraceptive for the needs of a particular woman. The drug needed by a teenager may be different from the drug needed by a forty-year-old mother of two children.

What are they. Progestin contraceptives are available in the form of tablets, subcutaneous implants, and injections.

Suitable for. Universal tool, suitable for almost everyone. It is most often recommended for patients who have contraindications for combined contraceptives: nursing mothers and women who have contraindications for taking combined contraceptives.

Common side effects. Acne, breast tenderness, headaches. Sometimes spotting occurs, or these contraceptives lead to a complete absence of menstruation, which does not suit everyone.

Nuances:

If a woman has chosen pills, and more than 5 days have passed since the last menstruation, 2 more days after taking the first pill, you need to use additional methods of contraception. If less than 5 days have passed, additional contraception is not needed.

If a woman does not have a menstrual cycle and she is not pregnant, you can start taking the drug on any day of the cycle. Just in case, you need to use additional means of protection for another 2 days.

Tablets can be taken immediately after the birth of the baby, but it is better to start one month after the birth. This reduces the risk of thromboembolism – blockage of a vein by a blood clot.

If a woman chooses an injection or an implant and more than 7 days have passed since her last menstrual period, additional contraception must be used for another week. If less than 7 days have passed, additional contraception is not needed.

How to take. You can start taking pills on any day of the cycle. Stop taking – too, it is not necessary to “drink up” the package to the end.

Pros:

• Suitable for women of any age
• Suitable for both women who have given birth and those who have not given birth
• Before taking the drug, you do not need to be examined by a gynecologist

Cons

• Must be taken every day

How to use. Under local anesthesia, it is injected under the skin once every 3 years on any day of the cycle. You can extract at any time.

Pros:

• The most reliable method (less than 0.5 pregnancies per 100 women per year of use)
• The longest possible term for hormonal contraceptives is valid: 3 years
• Suitable for both parous and non-parous women
• Reduces menstrual flow

Cons

• Can be painful when inserting and removing the implant

How to use. Depending on the drug, once every 2-3 months on any day of the cycle, an injection is made into the gluteal muscle or into the deltoid muscle of the shoulder.

Pros:

• Convenient compared to pills: you need to think about contraception only once every 2-3 months
• Suitable for women of any age
• Suitable for women who have given birth and have not given birth

Cons

• Injection can be painful, sometimes there are bruises and bumps
• Side effects are more pronounced: acne, increased body hair (hirsutism)

What are they. Combined contraceptives come in the form of tablets, vaginal rings, and patches.

Suitable for. Most healthy non-smokers before menopause. However, all people (and drugs) are different, so you need to select pills together with a gynecologist.

Who are not suitable. Nursing mothers, women over 35 years of age who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day, and women suffering from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, blood clotting disorders, migraine with aura, complicated diabetes mellitus and liver disease.

Nuances:

Before prescribing a combined contraceptive, the doctor should ask the patient in detail about her well-being and measure her blood pressure. The drug is not suitable for women with arterial hypertension. If the pressure is below 140/90 mm Hg. Art., the medicine can be used.

If more than 5 days have passed since the last menstruation, in order not to become pregnant, you need to use additional methods of contraception for another week. If less than 5 days have passed since the last menstruation, additional contraception is not needed. If a woman does not have a menstrual cycle, and she is not pregnant, you can start drinking the drug on any day of the cycle. Just in case, you need to use additional methods of contraception for another week.

Combination contraceptives are not recommended for the first 3-6 weeks after birth. This will reduce the risk of thromboembolism.

How to take. Tablets should be taken one at a time, at the same time each day. If you miss even one day, there is a small risk of getting pregnant.

Most modern combined preparations are 21 tablets, after which the woman does not take the drug for 7 days, or 24 tablets with the active ingredient and 4 “pacifiers” without the active ingredient. These tablets are more convenient because they can be taken continuously.

Pros:

• Women with irregular periods help to normalize the cycle
• Reduce the amount of menstrual flow by 40-50%
• Reduce menstrual pain in 70-80% of patients
• May be used to treat acne
• Reduce blood loss and pain associated with fibroids and endometriosis
• Reduce the risk of certain cancers (ovarian, endometrial and colorectal cancers)
• Strengthen bones

Cons:

• Should be taken every day at the same time
• Not recommended for breastfeeding mothers
• Not suitable for everyone: there are contraindications
• Side effects: from spotting in the first month of use to headaches and depression

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How to use. Insert into the vagina once a month, like a tampon. After 3 weeks, the ring should be removed and a week break should be taken. A week later – insert a new ring.

Pros:

• All the advantages of tablets, but the ring is more convenient to use
• Compared to the patch: invisible on the body

Cons:

• Can be felt inside the vagina
• May fall out – then it must be washed under running water and inserted again
• Increased risk of vaginal microflora disorders, symptoms may increase in people with vaginosis and candidiasis
• May interfere with intercourse

How to use. Stick on the stomach, thigh or shoulder. The patch should be changed once a week. After three weeks, take a break for one week.

• All the advantages of tablets, but the patch is more convenient to use
• Compared to the vaginal ring: no problems with unpleasant sensations and with the microflora of the vagina

Cons:

Gets dirty quickly and does not look aesthetically pleasing – Can often peel off, especially in summer – Needs replacement more often than a ring – May cause skin irritation – Few options: it is difficult to find an alternative patch if it causes side effects

If a woman has a regular cycle, and contraceptives are needed only so that an unplanned pregnancy does not occur, it is not necessary to take tests for sex hormones, biochemistry and blood clotting.

If the woman has had health problems, the doctor may order additional tests. This will help ensure that the contraceptive method chosen will do more good than harm.

If you are not embarrassed by the absence of menstruation, you do not need to cancel hormonal contraceptives, this will not harm your health, and will not affect your ability to have children in the future.

You can use contraceptive pills continuously to avoid menstruation. And if you implant an implant or regularly inject, there is a chance that your periods will pass by themselves.

Progestin contraceptives: tablets. If you remember the missed pill within 3 hours, just take it and continue taking it as usual. Two days after that, you will have to additionally protect yourself.

If you remember the pill later, the advice is the same. The only problem is that the reliability of contraception in this situation is a big question. If you keep forgetting your pills, you may be better off with another method of contraception. Contraceptives with progestins: injections. If you are less than 2 weeks late with your injection, just do it – no additional contraceptive measures are needed. If longer – too. Most importantly, make sure you’re not pregnant and take extra protection for a week.

Combined contraceptives: tablets. If you remember the missed pill within two days, just take it, and then continue to take the pills “on schedule”. It is not scary if you have to take two tablets in one day. There is no need for additional protection.

If more than two days have passed, you need to take only the last missed tablet, and continue to drink according to the “schedule”. True, in this case, you will have to use additional methods of protection for a week – for example, a condom.

The risk of getting pregnant depends on which pill you forgot. If this happened at the beginning or at the end of taking the tablets with the active substance, the chance of getting pregnant is higher. In this situation, you should consult a doctor and make sure, even if less than 2 days have passed.

Combined contraceptives: ring, patch. If less than two days have passed, simply insert a new ring or apply a band-aid. Additional protection is not required. If more than 2 days have passed, use a contraceptive and additional protection for a week. It is worth consulting with your doctor: if you have had unprotected contacts, emergency methods of contraception may be required.

In this situation, doctors advise just taking another pill, regardless of which contraceptive you used. If nausea and diarrhea persist for more than two days, act as if you missed a pill.

Side effects did not go away after 2-3 months from the start of taking the contraceptive. If spotting and nausea do not go away, you need to see a doctor to change the drug.

Bitterness in the mouth, severe dizziness and bleeding. Over time, these symptoms do not go away. If they appear, you should immediately consult a doctor to change the drug.

• The right method of hormonal contraception is a reliable and safe way to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.