A 34-year-old woman suddenly suffered a severe blockage of the cerebral blood vessels against the background of no significant health problems. Her Xi are normal, her weight is within a healthy range, and she is not burdened with hereditary diseases. However, she had been taking a common oral contraceptive pill for a long time, which raised deep concerns about the drug's safety. In modern society, birth control pills have become the preferred method of contraception for many women. Its convenience and efficiency have made it popular. However, the side effects and potential harms of this drug are often underestimated. Especially in the case of long-term use, it may silently damage a woman's health.
How and what types of birth control pills work
Birth control pills, a type of medicine used to prevent pregnancy, often contain man-made hormones that mimic hormones naturally produced in a woman's body. The main ingredients of these drugs are estrogen and progesterone, which work together in different ways to prevent pregnancy. The main role of estrogen is to inhibit ovulation, that is, to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. Progesterone, on the other hand, increases the consistency of the cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from passing through and makes the endometrium unsuitable for fertilized egg implantation. There are many types of birth control pills, which can be divided into two main categories according to the type and dosage of hormones: combined contraceptives and progestin-only contraceptives. Combined contraceptives contain estrogen and progesterone, while progestogen-only contraceptives contain only progesterone. Combined contraceptives are further divided into various dosage forms, such as regular dose, low dose, and ultra-low dose, and these different doses are suitable for different users. In addition, there are some newer contraceptives that use more advanced drug formulations, such as birth control pills that are taken continuously for 28 days, without the need for the drug during the period of withdrawal. These medications are designed to mimic a more natural menstrual cycle and reduce menstrual discomfort and other side effects.
Common side effects of birth control pills
While birth control pills provide a convenient form of contraception for women, they can also come with a range of side effects. The most common include mood swings, weight gain, headaches, breast tenderness, and menstrual irregularities. These side effects are usually most noticeable within the first few months of starting the pill, and may lessen or disappear as the body adjusts to the drug. Mood swings are an important problem in the use of birth control pills. Hormones in medications can affect the balance of chemicals in the brain, leading to mood swings or depression. Weight gain, on the other hand, is often associated with hormones in birth control pills, which may cause water retention and increased appetite. Headaches and breast tenderness are caused by changes in hormone levels, while irregular menstruation can be the result of the body adjusting its response to medications. While these side effects are usually not serious, they can affect quality of life and be a reason for some women to stop taking birth control pills.
Association of birth control pills with serious health problems
The association of birth control pills with some serious health problems cannot be ignored. Of most concern is its potential link to thrombosis. Long-term use of birth control pills that contain high doses of estrogen may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women with a family history of blood clots or other risk factors for blood clots, such as smoking, obesity or sedentary lifestyles. In addition to blood clots, there are studies that suggest that long-term use of birth control pills may be associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Although this link is not fully established, some studies have found that women who use birth control pills for a long time may face a higher risk of breast and cervical cancer. However, there are also studies that suggest that birth control pills may reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer. Another issue to be concerned about is the impact of birth control pills on heart health. Some studies note that women who use birth control pills may have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke, especially in women with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors for heart disease. Therefore, considering these potential risks, it is advisable to conduct a thorough health assessment before starting to take birth control pills.
Advice on the safe use of birth control pills
Considering the potential side effects and risks of birth control pills, here are some recommendations for safe use: Individualized selection: When choosing a birth control pill, an individual's health status and family medical history should be considered. Different drug types are suitable for different users. Talk to your doctor to find the best medication for you. Doctor's supervision: Use of birth control pills under the guidance of a doctor. Before starting to take it, conduct a thorough health assessment, including blood pressure, weight, and family medical history. Regular check-ups: Have regular health check-ups while taking birth control pills, especially to monitor blood pressure and weight, as well as any potential cardiovascular problems. Know about side effects: Be aware of possible side effects and risks associated with medications, and communicate with your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms. Lifestyle modifications: Adopt a healthy lifestyle, such as maintaining an appropriate weight, eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, to reduce potential risks.