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Tag: Contraceptives

Explore our medication guides and pharmacology articles within this category.

Understanding the Role of Brown Pills: Are the Brown Pills Placebo Pills?

4 min read
Over 99% effective with perfect use, combination birth control pills often include a row of inactive pills, but their color can vary by brand. So, are the brown pills placebo pills? In many cases, yes, particularly in certain formulations like Lo Loestrin Fe, where they serve as non-hormonal, iron-containing reminders.

Can birth control make you itchy? Understanding hormonal and allergic reactions

4 min read
According to research published in *iCliniq*, rashes caused by birth control methods are not uncommon, though serious allergic reactions are rare. This means that if you are wondering, 'can birth control make you itchy?', the answer is yes, and it can be for a variety of reasons. The itching can be triggered by hormonal shifts, an allergy to a non-hormonal ingredient, or the exacerbation of an underlying skin condition.

Is diarrhea a side effect of birth control pills?

4 min read
While not a universal experience, gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea are a documented side effect that can occur when starting or using hormonal contraceptives. These issues, including diarrhea, nausea, and bloating, are most common during the first few months as the body adjusts to the new hormone levels. Understanding the connection between hormonal birth control and gut health can help you manage these symptoms effectively.

What is the difference between drospirenone and norgestimate?

4 min read
Over 9 million women in the United States use oral contraceptives, and the progestin component can influence a person's experience with side effects and non-contraceptive benefits. The key question for many is: What is the difference between drospirenone and norgestimate, two distinct types of progestins found in popular birth control pills?

What are the FDA warning on Depo-Provera? A Guide to Risks and Safety Precautions

4 min read
In November 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued one of its strongest alerts, a black box warning, for Depo-Provera to highlight a significant risk of bone mineral density loss. Knowing what are the FDA warning on Depo-Provera is crucial for anyone considering this injectable contraceptive, as long-term use is not recommended and other potential complications exist.

Does Everyone Get a Withdrawal Bleed?

4 min read
According to research, up to 20% of people on certain forms of the combined oral contraceptive pill may not experience a withdrawal bleed by their sixth cycle. This statistic answers the common question: **Does everyone get a withdrawal bleed?** No, and understanding the pharmacological reasons behind this is key to interpreting your body's response to hormonal medication.

What happens if you don't bleed on your pill break? Understanding your cycle on hormonal contraceptives

5 min read
Approximately 10% to 20% of women who consistently take birth control pills will experience lighter or no bleeding after six or more packs. It's a common question: **What happens if you don't bleed on your pill break?** The answer depends on several factors, from the effects of the hormones on your uterine lining to whether you have taken your pills correctly.