What is Marvelon?
Marvelon is a type of combined oral contraceptive, commonly known as 'the pill'. It is a prescription medication used to prevent pregnancy. As a low-dose hormonal contraceptive, it contains two types of synthetic female sex hormones: a progestogen called desogestrel and an estrogen called ethinylestradiol. Marvelon is considered a monophasic pill, meaning each active tablet contains the same dose of these hormones. With perfect use, combination pills like Marvelon can be over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy; however, with typical use, this effectiveness is closer to 91-93%. It does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
How Does Marvelon Work?
Marvelon prevents pregnancy through a three-fold mechanism of action powered by its active hormonal ingredients:
- Prevents Ovulation: The primary way it works is by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. The hormones in the pill suppress the natural hormonal cycle that leads to ovulation.
- Thickens Cervical Mucus: Marvelon makes the fluid (mucus) in the cervix thicker. This creates a barrier that makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and enter the womb to reach an egg.
- Thins the Uterine Lining: The pill also alters the lining of the uterus (the endometrium), making it thinner. This makes it less likely for a fertilized egg to successfully implant itself.
Non-Contraceptive Benefits
Besides preventing pregnancy, combined pills like Marvelon can offer several other health benefits. Many users experience periods that are more regular, lighter, and less painful. This can also lower the risk of developing anemia. Additionally, Marvelon may help with premenstrual symptoms (PMS), improve acne, and reduce the risk of certain conditions like ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, and cancers of the ovary and uterus lining.
How to Take Marvelon
Marvelon is typically a 21-day pill regimen. The standard approach involves taking the active pills daily for 21 days, followed by a break period. During this break, a withdrawal bleed, similar to a period, usually occurs. The next course of pills is started after the break, even if bleeding is still happening. To maintain effectiveness, it's crucial to take the pill consistently according to the prescribed schedule. If starting the pill on days 1-5 of a menstrual cycle, it often provides immediate protection. If started on any other day, a backup method of contraception may be necessary for the initial period of use.
What if you miss a pill?
- If you take the pill within a certain time frame after the usual time, contraceptive protection may not be reduced.
- If you are significantly late or miss more than one pill, the contraceptive protection may be compromised. In such cases, it is often recommended to take the most recently missed pill as soon as possible and use additional contraception for a specific duration. Depending on the timing in the cycle, specific instructions may apply, potentially including skipping the break period. Always refer to the patient information leaflet or consult a healthcare professional for specific guidance on missed pills.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Like all medications, Marvelon can cause side effects. Common side effects, which often subside after the first few months, include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and weight gain.
A more serious, though rare, risk associated with combined hormonal contraceptives like Marvelon is the increased risk of blood clots (venous thromboembolism or VTE). The risk is highest during the first year of use or when restarting the pill after a break of 4 or more weeks. For users of pills containing desogestrel, like Marvelon, the risk is estimated to be about 9 to 12 women out of 10,000 per year, compared to 2 out of 10,000 for non-users. This risk is increased by factors such as smoking, being overweight, age (especially over 35), and a family history of blood clots.
Who Should Not Take Marvelon?
Marvelon is not suitable for everyone. You should not take this medication if you have or have ever had:
- A blood clot in your legs (DVT), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or other organs.
- A heart attack or stroke.
- Severe liver disease or a liver tumor.
- Cancer that is sensitive to sex hormones, such as certain breast or uterine cancers.
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- Migraines with aura.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
It is also contraindicated for smokers over the age of 35 and should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
Comparison with Other Contraceptives
Marvelon is one of many available combined oral contraceptives. How it compares to others often comes down to the specific type of progestin used.
| Feature | Marvelon | Yasmin | Lo Loestrin Fe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Progestin | Desogestrel | Drospirenone | Norethindrone Acetate |
| Estrogen | Ethinylestradiol | Ethinylestradiol | Ethinylestradiol |
| Primary Use | Contraception | Contraception | Contraception |
| Known For | Can help regulate periods and improve acne | Has anti-androgenic effects, may help with water retention | One of the lower doses of estrogen available in a pill |
Conclusion
Marvelon is an effective combined oral contraceptive that works by preventing ovulation and creating barriers to fertilization and implantation. Beyond birth control, it can help regulate periods, reduce menstrual pain, and improve skin clarity for some users. However, it carries risks, most notably an increased chance of blood clots, and is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions. As with any prescription medication, a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Marvelon is the right choice for your individual health needs and lifestyle.
For more information, you can review the patient information leaflet from the UK's electronic Medicines Compendium: Marvelon Tablets Patient Information Leaflet
