Types of Combination Oral Contraceptives (COCs)

Question 1

Monophasic Formulations

Answer 1

-Contains the same amount of estrogen and progestin for 21 days, then followed by 7 days hormone-free

Question 2

Biphasic, Triphasic, Quadriphasic (Multiphasic formulations)

Answer 2

Have different amounts of estrogen and progestin throughout the 21 days, then followed by 7 days hormone-free

-Better mimics the levels of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle

Question 3

Extended-Cycle regimens

Answer 3

• Provides more days of hormone-containing pills (24days up to 84 days), then followed by 7 days hormone-free
• Good for women with menstrual-related difficulties [dysmenorrhea, heavy bleeding, severe premenstrual symptoms] or those who prefer not to have monthly bleeding

Question 4

Continuous Cycle

Answer 4

• Provides hormone-containing pills daily throughout the year (no hormone-free days)
• Good for women with menstrual-related difficulties [dysmenorrhea, heavy bleeding, severe premenstrual symptoms] or those who prefer not to have monthly bleeding