YASMIN BIRTH CONTROL (DROSPIRENONE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL)
Description of Yasmin Birth Control
Yasmin Birth Control is available in a 21 day supply that is taken 1 per day for 21 days and nothing for the next 7 days; and then you start another pack. If you prefer, Yasmin Birth Control is also available in a 28 day supply where you take 1 per day for 21 days, then continue with the 7 “reminder” pills without any hormones as 1 per day for 7 days, then on to a new pack.
When you first start taking Yasmin Birth Control, or generic Drospirenone/Ethinyl Estradiol, it is advised that you use an another form of birth control for at least the first 7 days to ensure it is fully absorbed into your system to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.
How Yasmin Birth Control Helps to Prevent a Pregnancy
Drospirenone is a man-made form of the progesterone hormone women produce during menstruation. It helps your body prepare for a fertilized egg and imminent pregnancy. It also helps to remove excess water retained by your body during your cycle. Ethinyl Estradiol is an estrogen hormone that fools your body into thinking that you are pregnant, due to the higher level of this hormone in your body, in order to stop the ovulation process.
Together, these hormones also thicken your cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg, as well as make your uterine lining less inviting so a fertilized egg is unable to attach in case the first two roadblocks fail.
Other Benefits of Yasmin Birth Control
Not all women take Yasmin Birth Control to prevent becoming pregnant; Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol can also help to regulate your period, and reduce cramping. Some women may not be making enough progesterone, which is needed to control the growth of your uterine lining. Without this hormone, there is excess growth that can cause heavy periods and can increase the risk of developing abnormal growth patterns, including cancer.
Because Yasmin Birth Control suppresses ovulation, the production of prostaglandins is greatly reduced. It is the prostaglandins that cause the contractions of your uterus that brings about the cramping so by taking Yasmin Birth Control, you will experience reduced pain from the cramps during your period and can carry on with your daily tasks in comfort.
Before You Take Yasmin Birth Control
Make certain you are not pregnant before starting Yasmin Birth Control. Do not take Yasmin Birth Control if you are over 35 years of age and smoke as you will greatly increase your risk of a blood clot, stroke, or heart attack. You should not breast feed while taking Yasmin Birth Control as it is excreted into your milk. Discuss other medical conditions and allergies you have and list all current OTC or Rx meds you take, including vitamin or mineral supplements and herbal remedies so your doctor can determine if this oral contraceptive is safe for you.
Precautions for Yasmin Birth Control
Do not take Yasmin Birth Control if you are expecting to undergo medical or surgical procedures that involve bed rest or long periods of time with limited movement. You should wait at least 4 to 6 weeks after having a baby before starting Yasmin Birth Control. Yasmin Birth Control will not protect you or your partner from sexually transmitted diseases.
Possible Side Effects of Yasmin Birth Control
- Depression
- Mood changes
- Weight gain
Drugs Similar to Yasmin Birth Control
The information provided on the NorthWestPharmacy.com website is intended to facilitate awareness about healthcare products and medical conditions generally but it is not a substitute for professional medical attention or advice. You should always speak with a qualified healthcare practitioner before taking any prescription or non-prescription drug.