Triphasic COCs

Definition

Triphasic Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) are birth control pills that vary the dose of estrogen and progestin at three different phases within the menstrual cycle. This design aims to more closely mimic the natural hormonal fluctuations of a woman's cycle.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Triphasic COCs contain varying levels of hormones in three distinct phases to reduce side effects and improve efficacy.
2. The triphasic approach is intended to better simulate natural menstrual hormone patterns compared to monophasic COCs.
3. Commonly used triphasic COCs include Ortho Tri-Cyclen and Tri-Sprintec.
4. They are taken daily, typically for 21 days followed by a 7-day placebo period during which withdrawal bleeding occurs.
5. Triphasic COCs may be preferred for women who experience side effects with monophasic pills, such as breakthrough bleeding.

Review Questions

• What are the primary differences between triphasic and monophasic combined oral contraceptives?
• How do triphasic COCs attempt to mimic natural hormonal fluctuations?
• Name two commonly prescribed triphasic combined oral contraceptives.

Related terms

Monophasic COCs: Birth control pills that deliver a consistent dose of estrogen and progestin throughout the menstrual cycle.

Progestin-Only Pills: Contraceptive pills that contain only progestin and no estrogen, often used by women who cannot take estrogen.

Withdrawal Bleeding: Bleeding that occurs during the placebo week of a birth control pill pack due to hormone withdrawal.