Binovum
Women across the world choose oral contraceptives as their preferred method for preventing pregnancy. Binovum - manufactured by Janssen, is a combined contraceptive pill, commonly known as "the pill." This medicine contains ethinylestradiol and norethisterone, which are the synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone.
How Does Binovum Work?
Binovum alters the normal menstrual cycle and simulates ovulation to prevent an egg from maturing and releasing during each cycle. It also increases the thickness of cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to travel to the vaginal cavity. The uterine lining changes to prevent possible fertilised eggs from implanting. The pill is effective at making periods lighter, less painful and more regular, so women who experience unpleasant cycles often choose oral contraceptives for these benefits.
Binovum Dosage
Each pack of Binovum contains 21 pills with varying levels of hormones. There are seven white pills that have 35 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 500 micrograms of norethisterone. The remaining 14 pills are peach coloured and contain 35 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and one milligram of norethisterone.
How Often is Binovum Taken?
Women should take one pill every day for 21 days in the order instructed on the package. They should then take a seven-day break before starting their next pack. Doctors recommend that women who are first starting the pill should begin on the first day of their period for full protection.
How Effective is Binovum?
Binovum is over 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancies. Studies have shown that only one in 1000 women will become pregnant while taking the pill. This medicine is not effective at preventing sexually transmitted infections, so doctors recommend additional contraceptives, like condoms, for high-risk situations.
Binovum Side Effects
Women have reported several side effects while taking Binovum, but individual results will vary. Some common effects include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness and weight fluctuations. Because the pill makes periods lighter, many women experience changes in menstrual bleeding. During the first few months of taking Binovum, women can expect to have menstrual spotting and breakthrough bleeding. More severe side effects include depression, increase in blood pressure, changes in liver function and blood clots. Medical professionals can provide more information about risks and side effects.
What Other Medications Affect Binovum?
Taking other medications while on Binovum can decrease its effectiveness as a contraceptive method. Some medicines speed up the liver's absorption of hormones, making the pill less effective. Certain antibiotics and emergency contraceptives also decrease the effectiveness. Medicines that can cause diarrhoea may affect the absorbency of Binovum's hormones. Women should speak with their doctors about their medications prior to starting Binovum to discuss possible interactions or impaired effectiveness.
Who Should Not Take Binovum?
Doctors do not recommend the pill for those with increased risks of blood clots in veins or arteries. Women with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, severe diabetes or breast cancer history should not take Binovum. This oral contraceptive is not for women who are over 50, pregnant or breastfeeding. Interested women should speak with their doctors to find out about potential risks and whether or not it is the right choice for them.
