What is Aurovela and how is it typically prescribed?
Aurovela is a brand of combination oral contraceptive (COC) that contains synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (norethindrone acetate). The medication works primarily by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and thinning the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of implantation.
Aurovela is typically prescribed in one of two standard cyclic regimens:
- 28-day packs: Formulations like Aurovela Fe 1/20 include active hormone pills and inactive pills (containing ferrous fumarate iron). A withdrawal bleed, or period, occurs during the week of inactive pills.
- 24-day packs: Formulations such as Aurovela 24 Fe contain active hormone pills and inactive pills, also designed for a monthly withdrawal bleed.
The concept of continuous or extended-cycle contraception
Extended-cycle contraception involves taking active hormone pills for longer than the typical cycle before a planned hormone-free break. The goal is to reduce the number of menstrual cycles a person has each year. Continuous contraception takes this a step further by eliminating the inactive pill week entirely, resulting in no planned hormone-free break and potentially no periods.
Is continuous use of Aurovela approved?
Taking Aurovela continuously by skipping the inactive pills is a common but off-label use of the medication. The standard Aurovela packages are not specifically designed for this regimen, and a healthcare provider must determine if it is appropriate for an individual patient. Some birth control brands, like Seasonale, are specifically marketed for extended cycles, typically involving a longer duration of active pills followed by inactive ones. The use of Aurovela for a continuous regimen must be done under medical guidance to manage any potential side effects and to ensure it is the right option for your health needs.
Benefits of taking Aurovela continuously
When used continuously under a doctor’s supervision, Aurovela can provide several therapeutic benefits, often related to the suppression or elimination of menstruation. These can include:
- Relief from severe menstrual symptoms: For conditions like endometriosis or severe dysmenorrhea (painful periods), continuous hormonal therapy can alleviate or prevent pain.
- Managing period-related conditions: Menstrual-related migraines, seizures, or heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) can be improved or treated by stopping periods altogether.
- Preventing menstrual-related anemia: By reducing or eliminating heavy bleeding, continuous use can help prevent or manage iron deficiency anemia.
- Controlling periods for convenience: Some individuals prefer to avoid monthly periods for personal or lifestyle reasons.
Considerations and potential side effects
While beneficial for some, taking Aurovela continuously is not without potential drawbacks. It is important to discuss these with a healthcare provider.
- Breakthrough bleeding and spotting: The most common side effect of continuous use, especially during the first few months, is unscheduled or irregular bleeding and spotting. This often decreases over time but can persist.
- Missed periods: While an intended effect, having no period can make it difficult to know if you are pregnant. If you experience pregnancy symptoms, you should consult your doctor for a test.
- Mental and mood changes: Some individuals may experience changes in mood, including depression or anxiety.
- Other common side effects: These may include nausea, headache, bloating, and breast tenderness.
- Serious risks: As with all combination oral contraceptives, continuous use carries risks of serious side effects, such as blood clots, stroke, or liver issues. Smokers over 35 are at a significantly higher risk.
Traditional vs. Continuous Aurovela: A comparison
| Feature | Standard Cyclic Aurovela Use | Continuous Aurovela Use (Off-Label) |
|---|---|---|
| Dosing Schedule | Active pills followed by inactive pills or a pill-free week | Taking active pills continuously, skipping all inactive pills |
| Bleeding Pattern | Predictable monthly withdrawal bleed during inactive pill week | Infrequent or eliminated bleeding, but with a higher chance of irregular spotting or breakthrough bleeding |
| Medical Supervision | Prescription required for standard use, as per manufacturer's instructions | Close medical supervision required to manage the off-label regimen and address side effects |
| Primary Goal | Contraception, with potential secondary benefits | Therapeutic management of menstrual-related conditions or lifestyle choice |
| Initial Adaptation | Potential for initial spotting, often resolves within 3 months | Higher likelihood of irregular bleeding, especially in the first few months |
How to approach continuous Aurovela use
Before considering a continuous regimen, a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential. They will review your medical history, assess potential risks, and determine if this approach is suitable for your specific needs.
If you decide to proceed, your doctor will provide clear instructions on how to manage your pill packs. This typically involves skipping the inactive pills and immediately starting the active pills of a new pack. Regular follow-ups may be necessary to monitor any side effects and adjust the plan as needed.
Conclusion
While Aurovela is a cyclic birth control pill, it can be taken continuously under a healthcare provider's guidance to minimize or stop monthly periods. This off-label use offers benefits for managing conditions like endometriosis or menstrual migraines, but it comes with potential side effects, most notably breakthrough bleeding. The decision to take Aurovela continuously should always be a collaborative one between you and your doctor, carefully weighing the potential benefits against the risks. Adherence to a consistent schedule and medical supervision are critical for both effectiveness and safety.
