Aurovela is a type of combined oral contraceptive (COC) prescribed for the prevention of pregnancy. It contains two active hormonal ingredients: norethindrone acetate, a synthetic progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, a synthetic estrogen. These hormones work together to create a hormonal environment in the body that prevents conception. Aurovela is available in different formulations, such as Aurovela Fe 1/20, which includes inactive pills containing iron (ferrous fumarate) to maintain a daily pill-taking routine.
The Three-Pronged Mechanism of Action
Aurovela's effectiveness relies on three distinct physiological changes that make pregnancy highly unlikely. These mechanisms affect the reproductive system on multiple levels, providing a robust contraceptive effect.
1. Inhibition of Ovulation
The primary way Aurovela prevents pregnancy is by stopping the process of ovulation. The hormones in the pill suppress the release of gonadotropins, which are key hormones responsible for maturing and releasing an egg from the ovaries each month. By inhibiting this cascade of hormonal events, no egg is released, and therefore, no fertilization can occur.
2. Thickening of Cervical Mucus
In a woman not using hormonal contraception, cervical mucus becomes thin and watery during ovulation to allow for easy passage of sperm. Aurovela alters this process significantly. The progestin component causes the mucus in the cervix to become thick and sticky. This creates a physical barrier that makes it very difficult for sperm to travel into the uterus and reach any potential egg.
3. Alteration of the Uterine Lining
For a pregnancy to be established, a fertilized egg must successfully implant itself in the uterine lining, or endometrium. Aurovela's hormonal action thins the uterine lining, making it an inhospitable environment for a fertilized egg. Even if an egg were to be released and fertilized, this thinned lining makes implantation significantly less likely to happen.
Understanding the Pill Pack
Different formulations of Aurovela, such as Aurovela Fe 1/20 or Aurovela 24 Fe, have specific dosing schedules. For example, a 28-day pack typically contains 21 or 24 'active' pills with hormones and 4 or 7 'inactive' or placebo pills.
- Active Pills: These contain the hormonal combination of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol. Taking these daily is what provides the contraceptive effect.
- Inactive Pills: In packs like Aurovela Fe, these pills contain ferrous fumarate (iron). They are non-hormonal and are meant to serve as a reminder to maintain the daily routine of taking a pill. The menstrual period typically occurs during the inactive pill week.
Additional Benefits of Aurovela
Beyond contraception, the hormonal regulation provided by Aurovela offers several non-contraceptive health benefits:
- Improved Acne: Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to acne. By regulating hormones, Aurovela can help clear up moderate acne in many women.
- More Regular Periods: For those with irregular menstrual cycles, Aurovela can establish a predictable cycle, which can be helpful for managing daily life.
- Lighter, Less Painful Periods: Many users report lighter and less painful periods, as the medication can reduce menstrual flow and cramping.
- Reduced Risk of Cysts: Combined oral contraceptives can also decrease the risk of developing ovarian cysts.
Important Considerations and Drug Interactions
While highly effective, Aurovela is not suitable for everyone and requires a doctor's prescription and medical evaluation.
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased Health Risks | The risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as blood clots, is elevated, especially for women over 35 who smoke. |
| Drug Interactions | Many medications can interfere with Aurovela's effectiveness. These include certain antibiotics (like rifampin), anticonvulsants, and even herbal supplements like St. John's wort. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects can include nausea, headache, weight changes, and spotting. Serious side effects, like blood clots, are rare but require immediate medical attention. |
| Hepatitis C Treatment | Aurovela is contraindicated with certain Hepatitis C combination drug regimens due to the risk of significant liver enzyme elevations. |
| STI Protection | Aurovela and other oral contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. |
Conclusion
Aurovela effectively prevents pregnancy through its combined hormonal action, which suppresses ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining. Its use offers secondary benefits like clearer skin and more predictable periods for many users. However, it is a potent medication with important considerations, including potential drug interactions and increased health risks for certain individuals. A thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Aurovela is the right contraceptive option. For more detailed prescribing information, including warnings and contraindications, consult the DailyMed: Aurovela Fe 1/20 package insert.
