36.2 Hormonal, Contraception, and Infertility Drugs
3 min read•june 18, 2024
Hormonal therapy, contraception, and play a crucial role in managing reproductive health. These medications help control menopause symptoms, prevent pregnancy, and boost . Understanding how they work and their effects is key for nurses and patients alike.
From birth control pills to , these drugs offer various options for different needs. While they can be incredibly helpful, it's important to know about potential side effects and interactions. Proper use and regular check-ups ensure the best outcomes for patients using these medications.
Hormonal Therapy, Contraception, and Infertility Drugs
Key characteristics and uses
Top images from around the web for Key characteristics and uses
Hormone Therapy - Free of Charge Creative Commons Medical image View original
Is this image relevant?
Frontiers | Endometriosis-associated infertility: From pathophysiology to tailored treatment View original
Is this image relevant?
Frontiers | Women Undergoing Hormonal Treatments for Infertility: A Systematic Review on ... View original
Is this image relevant?
Hormone Therapy - Free of Charge Creative Commons Medical image View original
Is this image relevant?
Frontiers | Endometriosis-associated infertility: From pathophysiology to tailored treatment View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Key characteristics and uses
Hormone Therapy - Free of Charge Creative Commons Medical image View original
Is this image relevant?
Frontiers | Endometriosis-associated infertility: From pathophysiology to tailored treatment View original
Is this image relevant?
Frontiers | Women Undergoing Hormonal Treatments for Infertility: A Systematic Review on ... View original
Is this image relevant?
Hormone Therapy - Free of Charge Creative Commons Medical image View original
Is this image relevant?
Frontiers | Endometriosis-associated infertility: From pathophysiology to tailored treatment View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Hormonal therapy
- and combinations treat (hot flashes, vaginal dryness, ) through (HRT)
- Progestin-only medications manage endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, and provide contraception
- Contraceptive drugs
- contain and progestin to prevent and thicken
- (POPs) suit breastfeeding women or those with estrogen by thickening cervical mucus and potentially suppressing ovulation
- (LARCs) like and subdermal implants offer long-term, highly effective contraception
- Infertility drugs
- induces ovulation in women with or other ovulatory disorders
- (FSH and LH) stimulate follicle development and ovulation in (ART) procedures (in vitro fertilization)
Mechanisms, side effects, interactions
- Mechanisms of action
- Estrogen stimulates development and maintenance of female secondary sexual characteristics (breast development, fat distribution)
- Progestin prepares the uterus for and maintains pregnancy by thickening the and reducing uterine contractions
- citrate binds to estrogen receptors, causing a feedback loop that increases FSH and LH secretion to stimulate ovulation
- Potential side effects
- Hormonal therapy may cause breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, and increased risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- can lead to irregular bleeding, weight gain, mood changes, and decreased libido
- Infertility drugs may result in (OHSS), multiple pregnancies, and hot flashes
-
- Antibiotics (rifampin) may decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives by altering gut bacteria and reducing estrogen reabsorption
- Antiepileptic drugs (carbamazepine) can reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives by inducing liver enzymes that metabolize estrogens and
- Herbal supplements like St. John's Wort may interfere with hormonal medications by inducing cytochrome P450 enzymes
Nursing considerations
- Assessment
- Review patient's medical history for contraindications (history of blood clots) or risk factors (smoking)
- Evaluate patient's understanding of the medication and its potential side effects to ensure informed consent
- Administration
- Ensure proper timing and dosage of medications, such as taking COCs at the same time each day
- Teach patients how to self-administer medications, like injectable contraceptives () or infertility drugs (Follistim)
- Monitoring
- Assess for side effects (breakthrough bleeding) and adverse reactions (allergic response)
- Monitor patient's response to treatment (regular menstrual cycles) and adjust medications as needed
- Collaboration
- Work with healthcare providers (gynecologists) to develop individualized treatment plans based on patient goals and preferences
- Refer patients to specialists when necessary, such as reproductive endocrinologists for infertility treatment (intracytoplasmic sperm injection)
Client education plan
- Proper usage
- Provide clear instructions on how to take (orally) or administer (transdermally) medications
- Emphasize the importance of consistent use for contraceptives to maintain efficacy (taking pills at the same time daily)
- Teach patients how to recognize and manage side effects (using backup contraception during initial months of COC use)
- Expectations
- Discuss the anticipated timeline for treatment effects (ovulation induction within 5-10 days of clomiphene use)
- Explain the success rates and limitations of infertility treatments (40-50% pregnancy rate per IVF cycle)
- Encourage realistic expectations and provide emotional support throughout the treatment process
- Potential concerns
- Address common myths and misconceptions about reproductive health medications (COCs do not cause infertility)
- Discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment option (increased risk of multiple pregnancies with gonadotropins)
- Encourage patients to report any unusual symptoms (severe pelvic pain) or concerns to their healthcare provider
- Follow-up
- Schedule regular check-ins to assess treatment progress and address any issues (adjusting HRT dosage)
- Provide resources for additional support, such as support groups (RESOLVE) or counseling services
Key Terms to Review (109)
Alesse: Alesse is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. It is used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and causing changes in cervical mucus and uterine lining.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is a professional organization dedicated to the improvement of women's health care. It provides guidelines and recommendations that influence clinical practice, including the use of reproductive health drugs.
Apri 28: Apri 28 is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel. It is used to prevent pregnancy and regulate menstrual cycles.
Assisted Reproductive Technology: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) refers to a group of medical procedures that help people with fertility issues conceive a child. It involves the manipulation of human eggs, sperm, and/or embryos to facilitate pregnancy, and is often used in the context of infertility treatment and family planning.
Aviane: Aviane is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. It is used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, altering the uterine lining, and thickening cervical mucus.
Biphasic COCs: Biphasic COCs are combination oral contraceptives that contain two different doses of hormones in the active pills. These adjustments are meant to more closely mimic the natural menstrual cycle.
Camila: Camila is a brand name for a progestin-only oral contraceptive pill. It is used to prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining.
Cervical Mucus: Cervical mucus is a fluid secreted by the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, that plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system. It is an important factor in hormonal, contraception, and infertility drug considerations.
Cetrorelix acetate: Cetrorelix acetate is a synthetic peptide that acts as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist. It is used primarily in assisted reproductive technologies to prevent premature ovulation.
Cetrotide: Cetrotide is a GnRH antagonist used in assisted reproductive technology to prevent premature ovulation by inhibiting the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH). It is administered via subcutaneous injection.
Clomid: Clomid, also known as clomiphene citrate, is a medication primarily used to treat infertility in women who do not ovulate. It works by stimulating the release of hormones necessary for ovulation.
Clomiphene: Clomiphene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used primarily to treat infertility in women by inducing ovulation. It stimulates the release of hormones necessary for ovulation to occur.
Clomiphene Citrate: Clomiphene citrate is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used primarily in the treatment of infertility and hormonal imbalances. It works by interfering with the negative feedback mechanism of estrogen on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, leading to increased production and release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn stimulate ovulation.
Combined Oral Contraceptives: Combined oral contraceptives, also known as the birth control pill, are a type of hormonal contraceptive that contains a combination of synthetic estrogen and progestin hormones. These medications work to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation.
Combined oral contraceptives (COCs): Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are birth control pills containing both estrogen and progestin. They prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy.
Contraceptives: Contraceptives are medications or devices used to prevent pregnancy. They can be hormonal, non-hormonal, or barrier methods.
Contraindications: Contraindications refer to specific situations or conditions in which a drug, treatment, or procedure should not be used because it may be harmful or ineffective for the individual. Contraindications are crucial considerations in the context of both cardiac emergency drugs and hormonal, contraception, and infertility drugs, as they help healthcare providers make informed decisions to ensure patient safety and optimize treatment outcomes.
Cyclessa: Cyclessa is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol, used to prevent pregnancy. It works by inhibiting ovulation, altering the cervical mucus, and modifying the endometrial lining.
Depo-Provera: Depo-Provera is a brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, an injectable form of hormonal contraception. It prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
Desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol: Desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing a progestin (desogestrel) and an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). It is used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and causing changes in the cervical mucus and endometrium.
Divigel: Divigel is a transdermal gel containing estradiol, used for hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women. It helps alleviate symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol: Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing synthetic versions of the hormones progestin (drospirenone) and estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). It is used to prevent pregnancy and can also help manage symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and acne.
Drug Interactions: Drug interactions occur when the effects of one drug are altered by the presence of another drug, food, or other substance in the body. These interactions can lead to changes in the drug's intended therapeutic effects, side effects, or both, potentially impacting the overall safety and efficacy of the medication regimen.
Ella: Ella is an emergency contraceptive pill containing ulipristal acetate, used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It can be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after the incident.
Endometrium: The endometrium is the innermost lining of the uterus, which undergoes cyclic changes in preparation for and in response to the menstrual cycle and implantation of a fertilized egg. It plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system and is closely linked to hormonal, contraception, and infertility drugs.
Estrace: Estrace is a brand name for estradiol, a form of estrogen used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It is also utilized in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and sometimes in the treatment of certain types of infertility.
Estraderm Transdermal: Estraderm Transdermal is a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patch containing estradiol, a form of estrogen. It is used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Estradiol levonorgestrel: Estradiol levonorgestrel is a combination hormonal medication used primarily for contraception. It combines estradiol, an estrogen, and levonorgestrel, a progestin, to prevent ovulation and alter the uterine lining.
Estrogen: Estrogen is a group of steroid hormones that play a critical role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. It also has important functions in other tissues such as bone and cardiovascular systems.
Estrogen: Estrogen is a group of steroid hormones that are primarily produced by the ovaries in women. Estrogens play a crucial role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system, as well as influencing various physiological processes throughout the body.
Estrogen Derivatives: Estrogen derivatives are synthetic forms of the natural hormone estrogen. They are commonly used in hormonal therapies, including contraception and treatment of menopausal symptoms.
Estrogen Receptor: The estrogen receptor is a type of nuclear receptor that binds to the steroid hormone estrogen, allowing it to regulate the expression of specific genes and influence various physiological processes in the body. It is a critical component in understanding the mechanisms of hormonal, contraception, and infertility drugs.
Estrogen therapy: Estrogen therapy involves the administration of estrogen hormones to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause or hormonal imbalances. It is used to manage conditions like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis.
Estropipate: Estropipate is a synthetic estrogen used in hormone replacement therapy to manage menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis. It works by compensating for the decreased estrogen levels in postmenopausal women.
Ethinyl estradiol desogestrel: Ethinyl estradiol desogestrel is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing synthetic estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (desogestrel). It is used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering the uterine lining.
Fertility: Fertility refers to the ability to conceive and reproduce, which is a fundamental aspect of the female reproductive system. It is a key concept in understanding both the normal functioning of the female reproductive organs as well as the use of hormonal contraception and infertility treatments.
Finzala: Finzala is a synthetic hormonal medication used for contraception and the treatment of reproductive health issues. It combines estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles.
First-day start method: The first-day start method involves initiating a hormonal contraceptive on the first day of menstruation. This method ensures immediate contraceptive protection from the start of use.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the female and male reproductive systems. It is essential for the development and maturation of egg follicles in women and the production of sperm in men.
Follistim AQ: Follistim AQ is a recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) used to stimulate ovarian follicle development in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies. It is administered via subcutaneous injection.
Follitropin: Follitropin is a synthetic form of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) used in fertility treatments to stimulate ovarian follicle growth and maturation. It is commonly administered via injection.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus in the brain that regulates the production and release of the gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), from the anterior pituitary gland. This hormone plays a crucial role in the functioning of the male and female reproductive systems.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a peptide hormone responsible for the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a critical role in regulating reproductive function.
Gonadotropins: Gonadotropins are a class of hormones produced by the pituitary gland that play a crucial role in regulating the function of the gonads (ovaries and testes) and the production of sex hormones. These hormones are central to the hormonal, contraception, and infertility drug topics.
Gonal-F: Gonal-F is a brand name for the recombinant form of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It is used to stimulate ovarian follicle growth in women undergoing fertility treatments.
Gonal-F RFF: Gonal-F RFF is a recombinant form of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) used to treat infertility in women. It stimulates ovarian follicle growth and development.
Hormone replacement therapy: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves the administration of hormones, typically estrogen and progesterone, to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause. It is also used to address hormonal imbalances and conditions such as hypogonadism.
Hormone Replacement Therapy: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that involves the use of synthetic hormones to replace or supplement the natural hormones in the body. This therapy is commonly used to manage symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, such as those experienced during menopause or andropause.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy by the placenta. It is used medically to support fertility treatments and can be detected in pregnancy tests.
Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis: The hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is a complex hormonal feedback system that regulates the production of sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, in the body. This axis plays a crucial role in the regulation of reproductive function, development, and sexual characteristics.
Implantation: Implantation is the process by which a fertilized egg, or blastocyst, attaches to the lining of the uterus and becomes embedded in the uterine wall. This crucial step marks the beginning of pregnancy and the development of the embryo and fetus.
Implanted contraceptive devices: Implanted contraceptive devices are small, flexible rods placed under the skin that release hormones to prevent pregnancy. They provide long-term contraception and are typically effective for 3-5 years.
Improvera: Improvera is a brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin used primarily as a long-term contraceptive. It is administered via intramuscular injection and works by inhibiting ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
Infertility drugs: Infertility drugs are medications used to stimulate ovulation or address hormonal imbalances that contribute to infertility. These drugs help improve the chances of conception in individuals or couples facing difficulties with fertility.
Intrauterine Devices: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped contraceptive devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They are a highly effective and long-acting form of birth control that work by creating an environment in the uterus that is inhospitable to sperm and fertilization.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus for long-term birth control. IUDs can be hormonal or non-hormonal and work primarily by preventing fertilization.
Introvale: Introvale is a brand name for a combination oral contraceptive pill containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. It is used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering the uterine lining.
Kyleena: Kyleena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) used for long-term contraception. It releases levonorgestrel to prevent pregnancy for up to five years.
Lessina: Lessina is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, used to prevent pregnancy. It works by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining.
Levonorgestrel: Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin used in various hormonal contraceptives. It is commonly found in emergency contraceptive pills and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol: Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol are synthetic hormones used in combination oral contraceptives. They prevent ovulation and alter the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy.
Liletta: Liletta is a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system used for long-term contraception. It prevents pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and inhibiting sperm movement.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives: Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are highly effective birth control methods that provide extended protection against pregnancy for several years. These contraceptive options are considered reversible, meaning fertility can return to normal levels once the device is removed.
Luteinizing Hormone: Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a glycoprotein hormone produced and released by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of reproductive processes in both males and females.
Medroxyprogesterone: Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It is commonly used in hormonal contraception and to treat menstrual disorders.
Menopausal Symptoms: Menopausal symptoms refer to the various physical and psychological changes that occur during the transition to menopause, the permanent cessation of a woman's menstrual cycles. These symptoms are directly related to the hormonal fluctuations and imbalances that occur as a woman's ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone.
Menopur: Menopur is a fertility medication that contains a combination of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). It is used to stimulate the development of multiple eggs in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies.
Menotropin: Menotropin is a medication containing both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), used to treat infertility in men and women. It stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs in women and increases sperm production in men.
Menstrual Cycle: The menstrual cycle is the regular, natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system, preparing the uterus for possible pregnancy. It is a complex hormonal process that involves the cyclical shedding and regrowth of the uterine lining, as well as the maturation and release of an egg from the ovary.
Mircette: Mircette is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. It is used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering the uterine lining.
Mirena: Mirena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) used for long-term contraception. It releases levonorgestrel, a type of progestin, to prevent pregnancy.
Monophasic contraceptive pills: Monophasic contraceptive pills are oral contraceptives that deliver the same dose of estrogen and progestin in each active pill. They are used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, altering cervical mucus, and changing the endometrial lining.
Norethindrone: Norethindrone is a synthetic progestin used in hormonal contraception and hormone replacement therapy. It mimics the effects of natural progesterone in the body.
Norethindrone acetate: Norethindrone acetate is a synthetic progestin used in various hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapies. It mimics the effects of natural progesterone to regulate menstrual cycles and prevent pregnancy.
Ortho Micronor: Ortho Micronor is a progestin-only oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy. It contains norethindrone as its active ingredient.
Ortho-Est: Ortho-Est is a brand name for estropipate, a synthetic form of estrogen used primarily in hormone replacement therapy. It helps manage symptoms associated with menopause and other conditions requiring estrogen supplementation.
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. It results from an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation.
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass and density, leading to an increased risk of fractures. This condition affects the structural integrity of bones, making them more fragile and susceptible to breaks, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.
Ovarian Follicle: An ovarian follicle is a fluid-filled sac within the ovary that contains an immature egg cell, or oocyte. Ovarian follicles are crucial for the production and release of hormones, as well as the maturation and ovulation of the egg, making them central to the processes of hormonal regulation, contraception, and fertility.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a complication that can occur during fertility treatments, particularly those involving the use of medications that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. It is characterized by the ovaries becoming enlarged and fluid accumulating in the abdominal cavity, which can lead to a variety of symptoms.
Ovidrel: Ovidrel is a brand name for choriogonadotropin alfa, a synthetic form of the hormone hCG used to trigger ovulation in women undergoing fertility treatment. It aids in the final maturation of eggs and their release from the ovaries.
Ovulation: Ovulation is the process by which a mature egg (ovum) is released from the ovary, making it available for fertilization. This critical event in the female reproductive cycle is essential for both natural conception and the effectiveness of certain contraceptive methods.
Pharmacodynamics: Pharmacodynamics is the study of how drugs affect the body, including mechanisms of action and drug-receptor interactions. It examines the relationship between drug concentration and effect.
Pharmacodynamics: Pharmacodynamics is the study of the biochemical and physiological effects of drugs and their mechanisms of action within the body. It examines how drugs interact with the body's biological systems to produce their desired therapeutic effects or undesired side effects.
Pharmacokinetics: Pharmacokinetics is the study of how the body affects a drug, including the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. It examines the movement of drugs within the body and how these processes impact the drug's concentration and duration of action.
Plan B One-Step: Plan B One-Step is an emergency contraceptive pill containing levonorgestrel. It is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles, and elevated levels of male hormones (androgens) in women. This condition can significantly impact a woman's reproductive health, metabolism, and overall well-being, making it an important consideration in the context of hormonal, contraception, and infertility drugs.
Postmenopausal clients: Postmenopausal clients are individuals who have gone through menopause, the cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, and are typically over the age of 50. They often experience hormonal changes that can affect bone density and cardiovascular health.
Progestin: Progestins are synthetic hormones that mimic the action of the natural female hormone progesterone. They are a key component in many hormonal contraceptive methods and play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy.
Progestin-only contraceptives: Progestin-only contraceptives are birth control methods that contain only progestin, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. They are used to prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining.
Progestin-Only Pills: Progestin-only pills, also known as the 'mini-pill', are a type of hormonal contraceptive that contains only the synthetic hormone progestin, without the addition of estrogen. These pills work primarily by thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and in some cases, they may also suppress ovulation.
Progestins: Progestins are synthetic hormones that mimic the effects of the natural hormone progesterone. They are commonly used in hormonal contraception and to treat disorders related to menstrual cycles.
Provera: Provera is a brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It is used in various treatments including menstrual disorders, contraception, and hormone replacement therapy.
Quick start method: The Quick Start Method is a protocol for initiating hormonal contraceptives on any day of the menstrual cycle, regardless of timing. It aims to provide immediate contraceptive protection and improve adherence.
Raloxifene: Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that exhibits both estrogen agonist and antagonist properties, depending on the target tissue. It is primarily used in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
Seasonique: Seasonique is an extended-cycle oral contraceptive pill that combines estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. It is designed to reduce the number of menstrual periods to four per year.
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators: Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are a class of drugs that act as agonists or antagonists on estrogen receptors in different tissues. They exhibit tissue-selective estrogenic effects, meaning they can mimic or block the actions of estrogen depending on the target organ.
Sexually transmitted infections: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections commonly spread through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and may affect reproductive health.
Skyla: Skyla is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that releases levonorgestrel to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. It is a small, T-shaped plastic device inserted into the uterus.
Sunday start method: The Sunday start method is a way to begin taking oral contraceptive pills on the first Sunday after a menstrual period begins. This method helps ensure that the user starts their new pack of pills at the same point in their cycle each month.
Syeda: Syeda is a combination oral contraceptive pill containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. It is used to prevent pregnancy and regulate menstrual cycles.
Tamoxifen: Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is primarily used in the treatment and prevention of certain types of breast cancer. It works by blocking the effects of estrogen in breast tissue, thereby inhibiting the growth and spread of hormone-sensitive cancer cells.
Thromboembolism: Thromboembolism refers to the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) that breaks off and travels through the bloodstream, potentially blocking a blood vessel at a distant site. This condition is particularly relevant in the context of hormonal, contraception, and infertility drugs, as certain medications can increase the risk of developing thromboembolism.
Transdermal patch: A transdermal patch is a medicated adhesive applied to the skin to deliver hormones into the bloodstream. It is commonly used for contraception and hormone replacement therapy.
Triphasic COCs: 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.
Ulipristal acetate: Ulipristal acetate is a selective progesterone receptor modulator used primarily as an emergency contraceptive. It prevents pregnancy by inhibiting or delaying ovulation.
Vaginal ring: A vaginal ring is a flexible, hormone-releasing device inserted into the vagina to provide contraception. It releases estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation and alter cervical mucus.
Yasmin: Yasmin is an oral contraceptive pill that contains a combination of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. It is primarily used to prevent pregnancy and may also help with hormonal acne and menstrual regulation.
YAZ: YAZ is an oral contraceptive pill that contains a combination of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. It is used to prevent pregnancy and can also treat moderate acne and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).