Before taking any medication, including Apri birth control, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. The information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice.
Apri is a combined oral contraceptive (COC), a type of birth control that uses synthetic hormones to prevent pregnancy. A typical 28-day pack of Apri is structured to provide consistent hormone levels throughout most of the month, followed by a week of inactive pills. The medication is known for its effectiveness when taken correctly and its non-contraceptive benefits, such as regulating menstrual cycles and reducing acne.
The core ingredients: Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol
The fundamental components of Apri are two synthetic hormones: desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. These hormones mimic the natural progesterone and estrogen produced by the body, respectively, and work in concert to suppress the reproductive cycle.
- Desogestrel (Progestin): Each active tablet of Apri contains desogestrel. As a synthetic progestin, its primary role is to prevent ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. It also works by thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for sperm to travel into the uterus.
- Ethinyl Estradiol (Estrogen): The active tablets also contain ethinyl estradiol. This synthetic estrogen helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and works alongside the progestin to prevent ovulation. It also modifies the uterine lining, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg should one manage to be released.
How Apri works to prevent pregnancy
The combination of desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol in Apri works through three primary mechanisms to ensure high effectiveness in preventing pregnancy:
- Inhibiting Ovulation: The hormones in the active pills signal the body to prevent the release of an egg from the ovary, the most important step in preventing pregnancy.
- Thickening Cervical Mucus: The presence of the progestin thickens the cervical mucus, creating a barrier that obstructs sperm from entering the uterus and reaching any potential eggs.
- Modifying the Uterine Lining: The hormones alter the endometrium (uterine lining), making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant and grow.
Apri vs. other combined oral contraceptives
Apri is a monophasic combined oral contraceptive, meaning each active pill contains the same hormone dose. It belongs to a family of pills with similar ingredients and effectiveness. Below is a comparison with other well-known COCs:
| Brand Name | Active Hormones | Hormone Type | Pack Structure (Active/Inactive) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apri | Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol | Monophasic | 21/7 |
| Sprintec | Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol | Monophasic | 21/7 |
| Junel FE 1.5/30 | Norethindrone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol | Monophasic | 21/7 (Inactive pills contain iron) |
Structure of an Apri pill pack
An Apri pack is designed for a 28-day cycle, making it straightforward to follow. Each pack consists of:
- 21 Active Tablets: These are the rose-colored pills that contain the active hormones, desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. Taking one of these daily for 21 days is what provides the contraceptive effect.
- 7 Inactive Tablets: These are the white pills, also known as placebo or reminder tablets. They contain no hormones and are meant to be taken during the last 7 days of the cycle. Their purpose is to maintain the daily pill-taking routine and is when a period-like withdrawal bleed is expected. The inactive ingredients in these tablets typically include lactose, magnesium stearate, and cellulose.
Beyond contraception: Additional benefits
Apri and similar birth control pills offer several health benefits in addition to preventing pregnancy. Many women use them to manage other gynecological issues.
- Regulation of Menstrual Cycles: Can help make periods more regular and predictable.
- Reduced Blood Loss: Can lead to lighter periods, which can be beneficial for those with heavy bleeding or anemia.
- Alleviation of Menstrual Cramps: Many users experience a reduction in painful menstrual cramps.
- Acne Improvement: The hormonal content can help clear up acne.
- Decreased Risk of Ovarian Cysts: Can lower the chances of developing ovarian cysts.
- Reduced Cancer Risk: Long-term use has been associated with a lower risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.
Important considerations and potential risks
While Apri is generally safe and effective, it is not without potential side effects and risks. Common side effects can include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and bloating. Some women may also experience weight fluctuations or mood changes.
More serious, though rare, risks are associated with all combined oral contraceptives, including a small increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. The risk is significantly higher for women over 35 who smoke. Apri is also not recommended for individuals with a history of certain medical conditions, including certain cancers, blood clotting disorders, liver disease, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. It does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is crucial to discuss personal medical history with a healthcare provider before starting any hormonal birth control.
Conclusion
In summary, what is in Apri birth control is a carefully balanced combination of the synthetic hormones desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol, designed to inhibit ovulation and create an unfavorable environment for pregnancy. As a monophasic pill, it provides a consistent hormone dose during the active pill phase, followed by a week of inactive pills. This formulation is a popular and effective choice for contraception, offering additional health benefits like regulated cycles and reduced acne. However, as with all medications, potential side effects and health considerations must be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure it is the right option for individual needs. For comprehensive information on desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets, refer to official medical resources like DailyMed.
