Alesse Birth Control

Alesse birth control pills are a combination estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progesterone (levonorgestrel) pill. They function by preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries. Additionally, they change the cervical mucus and uterine lining to make it harder for the sperm to reach an egg, should one be released.

This pill is commonly used as a 28-day cycle pill. The first 21 pills are considered “active” pills and should be taken at the same time each day. The last seven pills are placebo pills, serving to remind you to take the pill everyday. During the last week, you should get your period.

To begin Alesse birth control, take the first pill the Sunday after you get your period. Use a back-up method of birth control the first week you take Alesse. Once a pack is finished, begin the next pack immediately. Failure to start the next pack right away can decrease its effectiveness.

Missing doses may also decrease the pill’s effectiveness at preventing pregnancy. Therefore, consult with your doctor about whether or not you should keep a prescription for a morning-after pill on hand.

The Alesse birth control pill does have side effects. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the pill, do not take it. Other side effects may include:

• Bloating or stomach cramps
• Breast tenderness
• Darkening of facial skin
• Change in weight
• Vaginal discharge
• Changes in sexual drive
• Change in menstrual period
• Tired feeling

Complications from the pill may occur if you take it while on other medications. Before beginning this birth control method, speak with your doctor regarding your current prescriptions. Even over-the-counter medicines may have an effect on your body when combined with the pill, so be sure to mention these as well. Herbal medicines such as St. John’s Wart can also affect the pill’s effectiveness.

Serious side effects can occur if you smoke while taking the pill. Especially if you are over 35 and smoke, do not take birth control pills. These effects include blood clots, strokes, and more.

Birth control pills do not protect you against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. Use a condom to prevent transmission.

If you have any known conditions, diseases, cancers, or hormonally-related health problems, inform your physician. The pill can potentially cause serious side effects for those with certain conditions. If you think you are pregnant, discontinue the pill.

If you are on Alesse birth control pills and would like to discontinue their use, do so after consulting with your physician. For women who wish to become pregnant, it may take three or four cycles before becoming regular. Many doctors recommend waiting until you have regular periods before beginning to try to conceive. This is so they can estimate the conception date with more accuracy.

However, if you discontinue Alesse pills due to unwanted side-effects and still wish to prevent pregnancy, you will need to find another form of birth control. Your physician will help you determine whether a different form of hormonal birth control, such as the IUD or patch, is an option.

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