You must be aware that the Progestin is used for several reasons, though it works similarly like the Postinor 2, Apri and Plan B One Step. The Progestin-only birth control methods, which also includes pills (called “mini-pills”), implants, and shots, prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation) and dutifully helps to thicken mucus at the cervix, ensuring that sperm cannot enter the uterus, and in rare cases, prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Which means that it helps in the prevention of pregnancy after having unprotected intercourse.
How It Works – Birth control mini-pills
The Progestin do have several packs. However, the Progestin-only mini-pills come in a monthly pack. But to ensure that it is effective, the pills must be taken at the same time each day. If you take a pill more than 3 hours late:
Here are some important tips you Should Know.
- Make sure that you take this pill as soon as you remember, even though it means you will take 2 pills in one day. It is advisable to also use another method of birth control for the next 48 hours to prevent pregnancy.
- You should also consider using emergency contraception, if you have had sεx in the past 3 to 5 days.
How Well Does Progestin Works
The progestin shots and implants are highly effective methods of birth control. The Progestin-only mini-pills are very effective, but combination hormone pills are even more effective. The only downside of the mini pill is that it has to be taken at the same time every day, before it will work correctly.
Side Effects Of Progestin
Most side effects of the progestin-only birth control methods go away after the first few months of use. Side effects may include the following listed below:
- Irregular menstrual cycles.
- Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods.
- Sore breasts.
- Headache.
- Nausea.
- Dizziness.
- Bloating or weight gain, especially with the birth control shot.
- No menstrual periods. Although mini-pill use can stop periods, the shot is most likely to do so.
You should probably note here, that this is the lesser common progestin side effects, but it may indulge you in depression and darkening of the skin on the upper lip, under the eyes, or on the forehead (chloasma).
Risks of the Shot
Bone thinning. If you are using the shot for 2 or more years, it has the potentials of causing you bone loss, which may not be fully reversible after stopping the medicine.
Risks of Progestin For Teenagers
However, for teenagers, the bone loss from the shot is a concern, and here is the “Why”. Teenagers are normally building bone mass as they grow. So it is very important for teens to get enough calcium and vitamin D, so to ensure they grow, but if you’re taking this drug, It is advisable that you get lots and enough of calcium and Vitamin D when using the shot.
According to a small study among teens which showed that bone loss from the shot was reversed, after the teens stopped getting the shots. Conclusively, I’ll advice you to talk to your doctor about the risk, if you have been using the shot for longer than 2 years. It is very important.