by Sabina Jamshed

Created on: October 11, 2009   Last Updated: October 12, 2009

Contraceptive pills are the most commonly used form of birth control. Over 100 million women over the world use birth control pills. They are composed of two female hormones, estrogen and progestogen. These hormones play an important role in constricting the ovulating process (by which an egg is produced). Additionally they are known to thicken the secretions round the cervix thus constricting the passage of sperm.

When these pills were first introduced, the dosage was quite high. This resulted in women experiencing unpleasant side effects. These side effects included heart attack, stroke, and dangerous blood clots. The high dose of estrogen in these pills was contributing to these risky side effects. After intensive research, doctors were able to reduce the dose, giving rise to low dose birth control pills.

Low dose birth control pills are pills that contain 30 to 35 mcg of estrogen or less. Very low dose pills have as little as 20 mcg of estrogen. The less amount of estrogen in these pills reduces the risk of side effects. They are very effective if taken as directed. Very low dose birth control pills are taken just like the normal pill. They are usually taken on the first Sunday after the menstrual period initiates. They are continued for 21 days in a row and then not taken for 7 days. During these 7 days without the pills the period will start. Seven days later, the very-low-dose birth control pills will be taken again for another cycle.

Very low dose birth control pills are very effective for women approaching menopause. Women who are near menopause (known as perimenopause) can still get pregnant. High dose pills can pose a risk for women of elder age. Hence very low dose birth control pills can prevent pregnancy while reducing risk of side effects. They are also known to provide health benefits for such women. These benefits include reduction of hot flashes and vaginal dryness. They aid in regulating heavy or irregular periods and prevent boneless. Another benefit is prevention of ovarian cancer.

The hormone doses in these pills are very low, hence women do not experience many side effects. Slight breast tenderness, nausea, raised blood pressure or headaches might be felt. Women with a history of breast cancer or heart related diseases are advised not to take these pills. Perimenopausal women who smoke are recommended not to take these pills. It is best to consult a doctor before using these pills.

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