Understanding Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs)
Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs), often simply called 'the pill', use a combination of synthetic versions of the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone to prevent pregnancy. They primarily work by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation) and also by thickening cervical mucus to block sperm and thinning the uterine lining. Despite these shared mechanisms, not all combined pills are created equal. The specific type and dosage of hormones can differ significantly between brands, which is the key to understanding the question, 'Is Microgynon the same as Lizinna?'
Microgynon vs. Lizinna: A Detailed Comparison
Microgynon and Lizinna are both monophasic COCs, meaning each active pill in the pack contains a consistent dose of hormones. However, the crucial distinction lies in the hormonal composition. They contain the same oestrogen (ethinylestradiol) but at different doses, and entirely different synthetic progestogens.
The Hormonal Profile: What's Inside?
- Microgynon 30: Each active tablet contains 150 micrograms of the progestogen levonorgestrel and 30 micrograms of the oestrogen ethinylestradiol.
- Lizinna: Each active tablet contains 250 micrograms of the progestogen norgestimate and 35 micrograms of the oestrogen ethinylestradiol. Lizinna is often prescribed as a modern alternative to the discontinued pill Cilest, which had the same ingredients.
Pharmacological Differences
The difference in the type and dose of synthetic hormones is what sets these two contraceptives apart. Levonorgestrel, the progestogen in Microgynon, is an older-generation progestogen with androgenic properties, which might influence side effects related to mood and skin for some users. Norgestimate, the progestogen in Lizinna, is a third-generation progestogen. Lizinna also contains a slightly higher dose of the oestrogen, ethinylestradiol, which can impact its overall hormonal balance and potential side effect profile.
These variations mean that while both pills are highly effective for contraception, their effects on the body can differ. A person might find one pill is better suited to them than the other based on how their body responds to the different hormonal balances. For example, some individuals experiencing acne or mood swings on a progestogen-dominant pill might benefit from a more oestrogen-dominant option, like Lizinna.
How Do These Differences Impact You?
- Effectiveness: When taken correctly, both Microgynon and Lizinna are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, typical use effectiveness is closer to 91% due to user error, forgotten pills, or interactions with other medications.
- Side Effects: The different hormonal compositions can lead to variations in side effects. General combined pill side effects like headaches, nausea, mood changes, and breast tenderness can occur with both, but the likelihood and severity can be influenced by the specific pill. Breakthrough bleeding or spotting is also common, especially during the first few months. Some individuals may find that a higher or lower dose of oestrogen, or a different type of progestogen, reduces certain side effects. For instance, Lizinna users have reported different experiences with mood and libido compared to Microgynon users, according to anecdotal data.
- Health Risks: Both pills carry a small, well-documented risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots). The risk is slightly higher with third-generation progestogens like norgestimate (in Lizinna) compared to second-generation progestogens like levonorgestrel (in Microgynon), though the overall risk remains very low for all COCs. A healthcare provider will consider this risk, along with other health factors, when recommending a pill.
Comparison Table: Microgynon vs. Lizinna
| Feature | Microgynon 30 | Lizinna | Contextual Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Oestrogen | Ethinylestradiol (30mcg) | Ethinylestradiol (35mcg) | A higher oestrogen dose may influence side effects and hormonal balance. |
| Active Progestogen | Levonorgestrel (150mcg) | Norgestimate (250mcg) | Different generations of progestogen, which can affect side effects like mood and acne. |
| Type | Monophasic | Monophasic | Both deliver a consistent dose of hormones throughout the 21-day pill course. |
| Effectiveness | >99% with perfect use | >99% with perfect use | Highly effective when taken as directed. |
| Common Use | Contraception, heavy/painful periods | Contraception, heavy/painful periods | Both are used for similar purposes. |
| Thrombosis Risk | Lower (with second-generation progestogen) | Slightly higher (with third-generation progestogen) | Risk is still very low overall for both pills. |
Choosing the Right Contraceptive for Your Needs
Choosing the correct oral contraceptive is a personal medical decision that should always be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. A doctor can evaluate your medical history, any underlying health conditions (such as high blood pressure or migraines), and your personal goals to recommend the most suitable pill. Factors such as managing menstrual symptoms, skin health, and mood can all be part of this discussion. Never switch from one brand of contraceptive pill to another without first consulting your doctor, even if the brand names sound similar.
Conclusion
In summary, Microgynon and Lizinna are not the same contraceptive pill due to their distinct hormonal formulations. Microgynon contains levonorgestrel and 30mcg of ethinylestradiol, while Lizinna contains norgestimate and 35mcg of ethinylestradiol. These differences in progestogen type and oestrogen dosage mean they are not directly interchangeable and may produce different side effects and benefits for different individuals. The choice between them should be based on a thorough consultation with a healthcare provider to ensure the best fit for your specific health needs.
For more detailed information on combined oral contraceptives, consult the National Health Service (NHS) resource on the combined pill.
