Top

Merits and Demerits of Progestin-only pills (POP)

September 20, 2008



Since birth control pills continue to the most popular means of contraception, a discussion regarding the advantages and disadvantages of Progestin-only pills (POP) will certainly be useful. Progestin-only pill (POP) is one among the three main types of birth control pills that are available in drug stores. The other two belonging to this group are Combination pills and Emergency contraceptive pills (ECP).

Progestin-only pills do not contain oestrogen. Also termed as mini pill, it is mostly used by lactating mothers since oestrogen adversely affects milk production. Women who cannot afford to take oestrogen due to other reasons also prefer Progestin-only pills. POPs thickens the cervical mucus and thus prevents the entry of sperm into the utreus. Mini pills should be taken daily. This is due to the fact that Progestin-only pills require a definite time period of twenty-four hours to work effectively. The major advantage of Progestin-only pills is that their action is easily reversible. Decreased menstrual blood loss and associated pain is yet another benefit.

However, Progestin-only pills are not free from demerits. They do not prevent infections caused by sexually transmitted diseases. They are also not as secure as combination pills in preventing pregnancy. Not a single day should be missed in between with out taking the pills. Irregular bleeding, spotting, amenorrhoea or missed monthly period, severe headaches etc are the possible side effects.

If you do not find it difficult to memorize and take the pill daily, then POP is a good option. If irregular bleeding or spotting does not affect the intimacy of your sexual relationship then also you can choose POP as your method of contraception. If avoiding oestrogen is your need, like, if you are a breast-feeding mother, then it is advisable to go for Progestin-only pills. However, condoms need to be preferred if in case you are prone to sexually transmitted diseases.


What's More today?

alt text How to choose the right cookware

Its difficult to think something novel about spoon, knives, forks and plates but you cannot say so for... 

alt text How nutritious is bitter gourd

What comes first in your mind when you think of bitter gourd? Obviously, its strong and bitter taste.... 

alt text How to help your child read better

“Babies are born with the instinct to speak, the way spiders are born with the instinct to spin webs.... 

alt text How to choose right pair of sunglasses

What better idea to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that are funky, cool and fashionable. Eye... 

alt text Diabetes and alcohol

A man who was fond of wine was offered some grapes at dessert after dinner “Much obliged”, said he,... 

alt text How to choose a right panty

Panties not the best thing on earth but next to best thing on earth say a Chinese proverb. Panties are... 

alt text How nutritious is fenugreek

Fenugreek is a wonder herb and its no wonder that Jews customarily eat fenugreek on the occasion of the... 

alt text How to care for your bonsai

If you have a bonsai plant and you always complaint about the bonsai withering and dying, then probably... 

alt text How nutritious is bottle gourd

Bottle gourd is a wonder vegetable that is curing people worldwide and more and more people are accepting... 

alt text Hormones and headache

Hormonal headache occur only in women since a normal female cycle is associated with various hormonal... 

alt text How to improve your handwriting

Have you ever felt that your writing could be as elegant and distinct as the writing of the signers of... 

alt text How to tackle your double chin

Double chin is a chubby layer of skin hanging below your chin. The facial look of a woman can be improved... 

alt text Benefits of fish and cod liver oil

You consume fresh raw green vegetables and fresh fruits to keep yourself healthy and to prevent you from... 

alt text How to tackle wisdom teeth problems

Wisdom teeth usually appear when you are 17-25 years old. These are the last set of teeth to appear.... 

alt text Follow urine therapy to get rid of diseases

Won’t you be horrified if you are told to drink your urine to remain healthy? Won’t you be amazed... 

Bottom