Synphase Contraceptive Pill

Pharmacia have produced a brand of combined contraceptive pill named Synphase. It uses two hormones that are derivatives of oestrogen and progestogen to control the menstrual cycle. It is very effective as it prevents pregnancy in three ways and does so by maintaining a constant level of these hormones.

This version of the pill is a triphasic pill. There are 21 pills in each strip and there are three different types of pills within it, all with varying amounts of the hormones. There are seven blue tablets, which contain 35 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 500 micrograms of norethisterone, nine white tablets which have 35 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 1milligram of norethisterone and five blue tablets with 35 micrograms ethinylestradiol and 500 micrograms of norethisterone. These differences are supposed to mimic the natural changes in your hormone levels so that you do not experience as many side effects. The pills must be taken in the correct order.

Synphase is taken every day at the same time for 21 days. It is important that it is taken correctly, otherwise it will not be effective at preventing pregnancy. When you have finished the strip, you then take a seven-day break so that you have a withdrawal bleed. You then start a new strip on the eighth pill free day.

There are a number of advantages of this method of contraception. If used correctly, it is very effective with a 99% success rate and it is very reliable. It is also very discrete and does not interfere with sex. It can also be used to regulate periods so you know when you will start the period and it can also reduce pre-menstrual symptoms. Periods are often lighter and shorter whilst using Synphase. However, this form of contraception will not protect you against any sexually transmitted infections.

Synphase also contains a number of inactive ingredients. These include maize starch, povidone, magnesium stearate and lactose so if you have sugar intolerance, you will need to inform your doctor.

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