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Contraception SpecialThe Pill

In Germany, around 7 million women swallow the pill daily, which is one of the hormonal and safest contraceptives.

content
  1. How does the pill work?
  2. application
  3. Advantages and disadvantages
  4. costs
  5. Pearl Index

On average, of every 100 women who take the pill, between 0.1 and 0.9 become pregnant (this is called the Pearl index - the lower it is, the safer the method). With daily and constant intake, this number can even be reduced to almost zero.

How does the pill work?

While there are countless types of pill on the market, almost all of the female hormones include estrogen and progestin. In contrast to the combination pill, micropills contain a much lower amount of estrogen. Despite all these differences, all pills are similar - and threefold: they suppress egg maturation and there is no ovulation.

They change the mucus in the cervical canal, so that even the most zealous seed can not fight its way to the uterus. In addition, the uterine lining is built up only insufficient and therefore no seed penetrates there.

Especially for young girls and women is the mini pill, which contains only progestin and no estrogen. Advantage: Less side effects. Disadvantage: It must be taken almost to the hour, so as not to lose its effect.

application

A combination pill - one that contains progestogen and estrogen - is taken for 21 or 22 days, followed by a seven- or six-day break.

The mini-pill, however, is taken for 28 days without a break. Best always at the exact same time (JOY online tip: In the morning, before you leave the house to school, college or the office).

Advantages and disadvantages

If you take the pill regularly and consistently, it is one of the safest contraceptives. In addition, the annoying menstrual pain are weaker and the menstrual period is shortened slightly. For many girls and women, the skin improves.

However, if you forget the pill and do not take it within 12 hours (in a combination pill) or within 2 hours (mini-pill), the contraceptive protection will also decrease. This also applies to stomach and intestinal complaints that hinder the absorption of hormones. However, the risks of the pill also include an increased risk of thrombosis. In addition, some women complain of nausea, headaches and weight gain. In this case, it is usually enough to change the pill.

costs

A monthly package of mini pills is available for about 12 euros, a monthly package of combined pills costs from 16 euros. A half-year pack even less.

Pearl Index

  • Mini Pill 0, 14 to 0, 4
  • Combination pill 0.1 to 0.9

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