[25] Contraception - Combined Hormonal Flashcards
What does hormonal contraction use?
The female steroid hormones oestrogen and progesterone
Is hormonal contraception effective?
Yes, is very effective way of preventing pregnancy
What can hormonal contraception be split into?
- Combined methods
- Progesterone-only
What do combined methods of hormonal contraception contain?
Oestrogen and progesterone
What is the primary action of combined hormonal contraception?
Inhibits ovulation due to the negative feedback effect of the oestrogen and progesterone on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. This prevents the surge in LH, thus preventing ovulation
What are the additional actions of progesterone in combined hormonal contraception?
- Inhibits proliferation of endometrium, creating unfavourable conditions for implantation
- Increases thickness of cervical mucus, preventing passage of sperm
How is a period free of hormones achieved in combined hormonal contraceptives?
The patient takes a pill-free break or takes placebos
What does the period free of hormones cause when using combined hormonal contraceptives?
A fall in hormone levels, which leads to degeneration of the endometrium and menstrual bleeding
What is the failure rate of combined hormonal contraceptives with perfect use?
0.3%
What is the typical failure rate of combined hormonal contraceptives?
9%
What is the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) commonly called?
The pill
What does the COCP contain?
Oestrogen and progesterone
How many tablets are there in a packet of the COCP?
Either 21 or 28
What is the regime of COCP with a packet containing 21 tablets?
Taken consecutively for 21 days, and then a 7-day break when no pills are taken
What is the regime of COCP with a packet containing 28 tablets?
The pills are taken non-stop, and there is no break before starting the next packet
What are the types of COCP?
- Monophasic
- Phasic
What is meant by monophonic COCP?
Every pill contains the same levels of oestrogen and progesterone
What is meant by phasic COCP?
Levels of oestrogen and progesterone in the pills changes throughout the cycle
Other than monophonic and phasic, how can the hormone levels vary between different pills?
Can have varying levels of oestrogen