Women, for a long time, have resorted to using contraceptive methods in order to prevent them from getting pregnant. Until recently the most used form of contraception was condoms, but things changed with the introduction of hormonal contraceptive methods. Women, with the help of these methods, now have more control over unplanned pregnancy. There are three hormonal contraceptive methods: oral contraceptive pills, contraceptive patches and contraceptive rings. Of these three methods, oral contraceptive pills have become the most popular method. However, recent studies indicate that the other two methods are gaining popularity at a fast pace and thousands of women have benefited.

Oral contraceptive pills

The oral contraceptive pills consist of synthetic female hormones with the help of which they prevent a woman from getting pregnant. The pills can be either of the two, combination pills or mini-pills, based on the hormones present in them. Combination pill are those which consist of two synthetic female hormones, oestrogen and progestogen. Mini-pills on the other hand consist of only one synthetic female hormone, progestogen. Combination pills are at times referred to as ‘the pill’. Mini-pills are commonly referred to as ‘progestogen only pills’. These pills have been proven to be almost 100% effective in preventing women from getting pregnant.

Yasmin – a combination pill

One of the most commonly used combination pills is the Yasmin pill. This pill consists of ethinylestradiol, synthetic oestrogen, and drospirenone, artificial progestogen, as its active ingredients. This pill has been proven to be almost 100% effective in preventing pregnancy in women. With the help of the two synthetic hormones, Yasmin can prevent a woman from getting pregnant in three ways. Firstly, it tricks your body into believing that ovulation has already occurred. This prevents your body from producing an egg. Secondly, it thickens the cervical mucus in your womb, which prevents entry of a sperm into your womb.

Lastly, the Yasmin pill alters the womb lining so that an egg, if produced and fertilised, cannot attach and grow further. This pill has been proven to be quite an effective method of contraception along with other benefits that it provides. Women often experience weight gain because of water retention. On taking Yasmin, the pill reduces the water retention effect and also decreases the risk of weight gain. This pill also helps in treating conditions such as acne and excessive facial hair growth also known as hirsutism. It can also help in improving the appearance of your skin and hair in general.

This contraception is said to be most effective if taken on the very first day of your period. If you have forgotten to take the pill on the first day of your period, it is advisable to use an extra contraceptive such as condoms for complete protection. You are required to take this pill for 21 days of your 28 day menstrual cycle. You are then to take a break of seven days before starting a new pack. During these seven days, you are likely to have your periods, or a withdrawal bleed. The Yasmin pill can be taken by women who are 18 years of age or above.