Is Alesse Effective for Birth Control and Menstrual Regulation?

Contraceptive pill issues?

Hello, I would like to inquire if the contraceptive effectiveness of Alesse is relatively lower.
I was previously taking Yasmin, but when I visited the doctor, they prescribed Alesse.
However, I noticed in the informational leaflet that it seems Alesse may not be suitable as a contraceptive.
Will taking Alesse for contraception pose any issues? My main goals are contraception and menstrual regulation.

ljl, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the approved indications for this medication by the Ministry of Health and Welfare are: it is used for the treatment of moderate to severe acne and/or hirsutism in women of reproductive age who are sensitive to androgens (with or without seborrhea), or for contraception limited to the aforementioned conditions.
For the treatment of acne, it should only be used after the failure of topical treatments or systemic antibiotic therapy.
Therefore, it still has contraceptive effects, but it must be taken regularly to achieve the desired therapeutic and contraceptive outcomes.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/10/26

More Info

Alesse, a combination oral contraceptive pill, is indeed effective for both birth control and menstrual regulation. It contains two hormones: ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestin). When taken correctly, Alesse can provide a high level of effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, with typical use showing an effectiveness rate of about 91% to 99%. This means that out of 100 women using the pill for one year, only about 1 to 9 will become pregnant.

The effectiveness of Alesse, like other oral contraceptives, relies heavily on consistent and correct usage. This means taking the pill at the same time every day without missing doses. If doses are missed or taken irregularly, the risk of pregnancy increases. Additionally, certain medications, such as some antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications.

In terms of menstrual regulation, Alesse can help in managing menstrual cycles. Many women experience lighter periods, reduced menstrual cramps, and more regular cycles when using Alesse. This is due to the hormonal regulation that the pill provides, which can help stabilize the menstrual cycle and reduce the symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

If you have previously taken a different contraceptive pill, such as 悅己 (Yue Ji), and have switched to Alesse, it’s essential to understand that different formulations can have varying effects on your body. Some women may experience side effects when switching pills, including changes in mood, weight, or menstrual symptoms. It’s advisable to monitor how your body responds to Alesse and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Regarding your concern about Alesse being less effective than other contraceptives, it’s important to note that all hormonal contraceptives have similar mechanisms of action and effectiveness rates when used correctly. If you feel uncertain about Alesse or have specific health concerns, discussing these with your doctor can help you make an informed decision. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and reproductive goals.

In summary, Alesse is an effective option for both birth control and menstrual regulation when taken as directed. If you have any doubts or experience side effects, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They can help ensure that you are using the most suitable contraceptive method for your needs while addressing any concerns about menstrual health.

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