What is Levest?
Levest is a type of combined oral contraceptive, commonly known as "the pill." It contains synthetic versions of two naturally occurring female sex hormones: ethinylestradiol (an oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestogen). This combination of hormones works to prevent pregnancy through multiple actions, making it a highly effective method of birth control when taken correctly. The pill is typically taken daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break during which a withdrawal bleed occurs.
How Levest works: The primary mechanisms
The synthetic hormones in Levest interrupt the body's natural reproductive cycle by mimicking the hormonal state of pregnancy. This sends a signal to the body that pregnancy is already underway, shutting down the processes that would lead to a new pregnancy. The result is a powerful and multi-pronged approach to contraception.
1. Inhibits Ovulation
The primary mechanism of action for combined oral contraceptives like Levest is the suppression of ovulation. In a normal menstrual cycle, the pituitary gland releases gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which trigger the release of an egg from the ovary. The synthetic hormones in Levest prevent this from happening. The continuous dose of ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel prevents the surge of FSH and LH that is necessary to trigger ovulation. Without an egg being released, fertilization cannot occur.
2. Thickens Cervical Mucus
Levest also alters the cervical mucus, the fluid produced by the cervix. The progestogen component, levonorgestrel, makes this mucus thicker and stickier. This creates a physical barrier at the entrance of the womb, making it significantly more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach an egg. The thickening of cervical mucus provides a crucial secondary layer of protection against pregnancy.
3. Thins the Uterine Lining
A third layer of protection involves the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. The hormones in Levest cause the endometrium to become thinner and less receptive. In the unlikely event that ovulation were to occur and an egg were to be fertilized, the altered uterine lining would make it very difficult for the fertilized egg to implant and grow. This reduces the likelihood of pregnancy further, providing another contraceptive safeguard.
Summary of Hormonal Effects
- Levonorgestrel (Progestogen): The dominant effect is thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining. It also contributes to the suppression of ovulation.
- Ethinylestradiol (Oestrogen): Works in conjunction with the progestogen to inhibit the hormonal signals that trigger ovulation.
Levest vs. other hormonal contraceptives
Choosing the right contraceptive depends on individual needs, health factors, and lifestyle. Levest, as a combined pill, differs from other hormonal methods in its hormone composition and mechanism. Alternatives include progestogen-only pills (mini-pills) and long-acting reversible contraception (LARC).
Comparison Table: Levest and Other Contraceptive Methods
| Feature | Levest (Combined Pill) | Progestogen-Only Pill (POP) | Contraceptive Implant | Intrauterine System (IUS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hormones | Ethinylestradiol & Levonorgestrel | Progestogen only | Progestogen only | Progestogen (in uterus) |
| Primary Action | Ovulation inhibition | Thickens cervical mucus | Prevents ovulation & thickens mucus | Thins uterine lining, thickens mucus |
| Ovulation Inhibition | Strong and consistent | Can be inconsistent (approx. 50%) | Strong and consistent | Less systemic, but occurs locally |
| Dosage Schedule | Daily pill, 21 active / 7 break | Daily pill, no break, strict timing | Implanted, lasts up to 3 years | Inserted, lasts up to 5 years |
| Reversibility | Immediate upon stopping | Immediate upon stopping | Immediate upon removal | Immediate upon removal |
| Bleeding Pattern | Regular withdrawal bleed | Irregular or absent bleeding | Irregular or absent bleeding | Lighter, less painful periods |
Benefits and potential side effects of Levest
Beyond its contraceptive purpose, many women experience additional benefits from taking Levest. These can include lighter, more regular, and less painful periods, as well as an improvement in conditions like acne. Some individuals may also experience fewer premenstrual symptoms (PMS). However, Levest is not without potential side effects, which vary widely among users.
Common side effects
- Headaches
- Nausea and stomach pain
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in weight
- Mood changes or depression
Serious but rare risks
Like all combined hormonal contraceptives, Levest carries a slightly increased risk of serious side effects, most notably the formation of blood clots. This risk is higher in individuals with certain risk factors, such as those who smoke, have high blood pressure, or are over the age of 35. It is crucial to discuss personal risk factors with a healthcare provider before starting Levest. Other rare but serious side effects can include liver problems, and a slightly increased risk of breast or cervical cancer that decreases after stopping the pill.
Conclusion
Levest works as a combined oral contraceptive by harnessing the power of synthetic estrogen and progestogen to prevent pregnancy through a three-pronged approach. Its effectiveness relies on the consistent daily intake of the hormones, which inhibits ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining. While offering significant contraceptive benefits and positive effects on menstrual cycles, it is important for users to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with any hormonal medication. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure Levest is a safe and suitable option based on an individual's health profile.
For more detailed information, the NHS provides a comprehensive guide to combined oral contraceptives: Combined pill - NHS inform.
