Oral Contraceptive Pills: Types, Mechanism, Uses, and Risks

Types of Oral Contraceptive Pills

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills (COCs): These contain both estrogen (usually ethinylestradiol) and progestin (synthetic progesterone). Common examples include Yasmin, Microgynon, and Diane.
Progestin-Only Pills (POP): These contain only progestin, with no estrogen. Examples include Cerazette and Noriday.

Inhibition of Ovulation: COCs inhibit the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary, preventing ovulation. POPs also inhibit ovulation but primarily work by thickening cervical mucus and altering the endometrium.
Thickening of Cervical Mucus: Progestin in both COCs and POPs thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm entry into the uterus.
Alteration of Endometrial Lining: Both types of pills make the endometrium less receptive to a fertilized egg, preventing implantation.

Contraception: The primary use of oral contraceptive pills is to prevent pregnancy.
Menstrual Regulation: Helps in regulating menstrual cycles and reducing heavy bleeding.
Acne Treatment: Certain COCs (e.g., Diane) help treat acne by lowering androgen levels.
Endometriosis and Dysmenorrhea: Relieves symptoms of endometriosis and painful menstruation.
Prevention of Ovarian and Endometrial Cancers: Long-term use of OCPs reduces the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, headache, breast tenderness, weight gain, mood changes.
Serious Side Effects: Increased risk of thromboembolism (blood clots), hypertension, liver disorders, benign liver tumors.
Less Common Effects: Breakthrough bleeding, decreased libido.

Absolute Contraindications: Pregnancy, history of DVT, pulmonary embolism, stroke, undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease, known or suspected breast cancer.
Relative Contraindications: Women over 35 who smoke, uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular disease, migraine with aura.

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