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Birth Control

Yaz® Birth Control: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore

Yaz® Birth Control: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore
Image credit: Siena Health

From birth control pills and patches, to condoms and intrauterine devices (IUD) — have you ever been at a crossroad, debating about which contraceptive to use? If you decided to take “the pill”, then have you ever wondered which one is most suitable for you out of so many brands available?

With a myriad of contraceptive methods available in Singapore, we will be sharing more about some of the more commonly used ones. In this article, we share more about Yaz®:

  • How it works;
  • How to take it; 
  • What to do if you missed a dose;
  • Potential side effects; and
  • Where to buy Yaz® in Singapore.

What Is Yaz®? 

Yaz® is a brand-name combination birth control pill containing 2 hormones:

  • Progestogen (3mg drospirenone); and
  • Estrogen (0.02mg ethinylestradiol).

Drospera® is a generic version of the brand-name drug Yaz®.

On top of preventing unwanted pregnancies, Yaz® is also FDA-approved to:

  • Treat moderate acne in women who are at least 14 years old and have started having menstrual periods, and who wish to start on birth control pills; and
  • Manage symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Some women also take Yaz® for other non-contraceptive purposes such as to:

How Does Yaz® Work? 

Yaz® prevents pregnancy by:

  • Inhibiting ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary;
  • Thickening of the cervical mucus (the fluid in your vaginal tract) which serves as an impedance for the sperm making its way to the egg for fertilisation; and
  • Thinning of the uterine lining, which prevents the fertilised egg from attaching to the uterus, and it would be passed out of the body instead, preventing pregnancy.

How Effective Is Yaz®?

A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Yaz® is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used perfectly. However, missed pills and improper storage may occur day-to-day. Hence, in typical use, Yaz® is around 91% effective. 

This shows that birth control pills are more effective than male condoms in preventing pregnancy, with male condoms being 98% effective when used perfectly, and 82% effective in typical use. However, birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which male condoms do.

Therefore, always use dual protection of condoms and non-barrier contraceptives such as birth control pills during any sexual activity.

How To Take Yaz® Birth Control Pills?

Yaz® contains a total of 28 tablets: 24 pink (active) tablets and 4 white (inactive, hormone-free) tablets. You should take one tablet daily for 28 days in a row, preferably at the same time every day after food, in the correct sequence as indicated on the packaging.

The next pack of Yaz® is immediately started after the last tablet of the previous pack. Withdrawal bleeding (menses) usually starts during the week when you are taking the white tablets.

What To Do If I Missed My Yaz® 30 Birth Control Pill?

It is considered a missed dose, if:

  • you missed a dose for more than 24 hours after your usual time when a tablet is supposed to be taken; or
  • vomiting or diarrhoea occurs within 3 to 4 hours following pill taking.

Missed white film-coated tablets can be disregarded. However, you must follow the steps below if you miss any 24 pink (hormone-containing) tablets to ensure that the contraceptive effect is not reduced.

If you are late (less than 24 hours) or missed (24 to 48 hours) an active pill:

You’re still protected against pregnancy if you missed 1 pill anywhere in the pack or started a new pack 1 day (24 hours) late. 

Follow these steps:

  1. Take the late or missed pill immediately.
  2. Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day).
  3. Take the 4 inactive pills.
  4. Emergency contraception is not usually needed but can be considered if hormonal pills were missed earlier in the cycle or in the last week of the previous cycle.
  5. No additional contraceptive protection (e.g. condoms) is needed.

If you missed two or more active pills (48 hours or more):

When this happens, it greatly increases your chances of ovulation. In this case, when you missed 2 or more active pills anywhere in the pack or started a new pack only after 2 days (48 hours) or more, you may not be protected against pregnancy. 

What you should do:

  1. Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day. 
  2. Discard any earlier missed pills.
  3. If the missed pill is within: 
    • Week 1 (pills 1 to 7) or Week 2 (pills 8 to 14) of the pack:
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • Take the 4 inactive pills
      • Begin a new pack the next day
    • Week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 24): 
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • When you have finished taking all the active pills, discard the 4 inactive pills
      • Begin a new pack the next day
  4. Consider taking emergency contraception if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days.
  5. Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex for the next 7 days.

What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Yaz®?

With all medications, you may experience some side effects when you first start taking Yaz® such as:

  • Nausea. Take Yaz® after food to reduce these side effects. 
  • Headache. Can be managed by taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol.
  • Spotting between your periods during the first few months of taking oral contraceptives.
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight changes due to fluid retention, mood swings. Take Yaz® at the same time every day to avoid huge changes in the hormone levels in your body.

These symptoms may vary among individuals. As your body gets accustomed to the changes in hormone levels, these symptoms may subside within 2-3 months. However, do consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms for longer than expected or if they are bothering you.

If you missed 2 menstrual periods in a row (or 1 menstrual period if the pill has been incorrectly used), contact your doctor for a pregnancy test.

Where To Buy Yaz® In Singapore?

Birth control pills cannot be obtained over-the-counter in Singapore — you’ll need to get a prescription from a general practitioner or gynaecologist if you wish to get your hands on birth control pills like Yaz®. 

Conventionally, that will mean taking time off work to travel to a physical clinic. With a MOH-approved digital women health clinic like Siena, you can get an online prescription for your birth control needs without leaving home! 

Simply complete an online medical questionnaire and our doctor will video call you at a time of your convenience for a tele-consult. If prescribed, your medication will be delivered to you in discreet packaging at no additional charge.

References

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Birth Control

Microgynon® 30 Birth Control: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore

Microgynon® 30 Birth Control: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore
Image credit: Siena Health

If you’re concerned about becoming pregnant, the birth control pill (better known as simply “the pill”) is one of the safest, most reliable forms of contraception available.

In this article, we share all you need to know about one of the popular birth control pill brands in Singapore, Microgynon® 30:

  • How it works;
  • How to take it; 
  • What to do if you missed a dose;
  • Potential side effects; and
  • Where to buy Microgynon® 30 in Singapore.

What Is Microgynon® 30? 

Microgynon® 30 is a brand-name combination birth control pill. It contains 2 hormones:

  • Progestogen (0.15mg levonorgestrel); and
  • Estrogen (0.03mg ethinylestradiol).

Microgynon® 30 is mainly used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. However, women taking Microgynon® 30 may also benefit from the non-contraceptive effects of estrogen such as:

How Does Microgynon® 30 Work? 

Microgynon® 30 prevents pregnancy by:

  • inhibiting ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary
  • thickening the cervical mucus (the fluid in your vaginal tract). This makes it hard for the sperm to reach the egg to fertilise it.
  • thinning of the uterine lining, so that even if an egg is fertilised, it will be unable to attach to the uterus. The fertilised egg will instead be passed out of the body.

How Effective Is Microgynon® 30?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, when used perfectly, Microgynon® 30 is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, possibly due to missed pills or improper storage, Microgynon® 30 is typically around 91% effective. 

Birth control pills are generally more effective than male condoms in preventing pregnancy — male condoms are 98% effective when used perfectly, and 82% effective in typical use. However, it is important to note that birth control pills do not protect women against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unlike male condoms.

Therefore, always use dual protection of condoms and non-barrier contraceptives such as birth control pills during any sexual activity.

How To Take Microgynon® 30 Birth Control Pills?

Microgynon® 30 contains 21 pills. This means that you need to take a pill at the same time every day, for 21 days. You should swallow each pill whole with water. Do not chew the pill.

The back of the pill strip states the days of the week (Monday – Sunday). Start your course by taking a pill marked with the correct day of the week and follow the direction of the arrows on the strip. This is followed by 7 days where no pills are taken.

A few days after taking the last pill from the strip, you will experience a withdrawal bleed, similar to having your period. During the 7 pill-free break, you do not need to use extra contraception such as condoms, as long as you have taken your pills correctly and start the next strip of Microgynon® 30 on time.

What To Do If I Missed My Microgynon® 30 Birth Control Pill?

A regular routine of taking your birth control pills at the same time every day during the 21 days regimen is desirable. This is because taking a pill late or missing doses may affect the effectiveness of the pill in preventing pregnancy.

Microgynon® 30 is considered “missed” if you:

  • don’t take it for 24 hours or more after you were supposed to; or
  • vomit or suffer from diarrhoea within 3 to 4 hours of pill-taking.

Follow these steps below if you have forgotten to take a pill:

​​If you are late (less than 24 hours) or missed (24 to 48 hours) an active pill:

You’re still protected against pregnancy if you missed 1 pill anywhere in the pack or started a new pack 1 day (24 hours) late. 

Follow these steps:

  1. Take the late or missed pill immediately.
  2. Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day).
  3. Take the 7-day pill-free break as prescribed or if you’re on an everyday pill, take the inactive pills.
  4. Emergency contraception is not usually needed but can be considered if hormonal pills were missed earlier in the cycle or in the last week of the previous cycle.
  5. No additional contraceptive protection (e.g. condoms) is needed.

If you missed two or more active pills (48 hours or more):

When this happens, it greatly increases your chances of ovulation. In this case, when you missed 2 or more active pills anywhere in the pack or started a new pack only after 2 days (48 hours) or more, you may not be protected against pregnancy. 

What you should do:

  1. Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day. 
  2. Discard any earlier missed pills.
  3. If the missed pill is within: 
    • Week 1 (pills 1 to 7) or Week 2 (pills 8 to 14) of the pack:
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • Take a 7-day break
      • Begin a new pack the next day
    • Week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 21): 
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • When you have finished taking all the active pills, discard the pack
      • Don’t take the 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day
  4. Consider taking emergency contraception if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days.
  5. Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex for the next 7 days.

What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Microgynon® 30?

Women who just started taking Microgynon® 30 may experience some of the following side effects:

  • Nausea and bloating. Taking the medication after food may help reduce these side effects. 
  • Headache. Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol may help manage the pain.
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods (spotting)
  • Breast soreness
  • Mood changes. To avoid huge changes in the hormone levels in your body, it is recommended to take Microgynon® 30 around the same time every day.

These symptoms vary among individuals and normally subside within 2-3 months as your body starts to get accustomed to the changes in hormone levels. Do inform your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms for longer than expected or if they are bothering you.

Where To Buy Microgynon® 30 In Singapore?

Birth control pills are prescription-only medicines in Singapore. You would need to consult a doctor in person before you can get started on any birth control.

With Siena, you can have access to affordable birth control from the comfort of your home. Simply complete an online questionnaire, and speak with a doctor online. If prescribed, your medication will be delivered to you in discreet packaging and at no additional charge.

References

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Birth Control

Yasmin® Birth Control: How It Works, Potential Side Effects & Where To Buy In Singapore

Yasmin® Birth Control: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore
Image credit: Siena Health

Contraceptives come in many different forms — birth control pills and patches, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUD). 

In this article, we share all you need to know about one of the most common birth control pill brands in Singapore — Yasmin®: 

  • How it works;
  • How to take it; 
  • What to do if you missed a dose;
  • Potential side effects; and
  • Where to buy Yasmin® in Singapore.

What Is Yasmin®? 

Yasmin® is a brand-name combination birth control pill that contains 2 hormones: 

  • Progestogin (3mg drospirenone); and 
  • Estrogen (0.03mg ethinylestradiol).

Liza® is a generic version of the brand-name drug Yasmin®.

Besides preventing unwanted pregnancies, Yasmin® can also help to:

How Does Yasmin® Work? 

Yasmin® prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. 

Besides preventing ovulation, Yasmin® also thickens cervical mucus (the fluid in your vaginal tract) making it hard for sperm to reach the egg to fertilise it. 

Yasmin® also causes thinning of the uterine lining, so that even if an egg is fertilised, it will be unable to attach to the uterus, and instead be passed out of the body. 

How Effective Is Yasmin®?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Yasmin® is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used perfectly. However, in typical use (due to missed pills or improper storage), Yasmin® is around 91% effective. 

Birth control pills are more effective than male condoms in preventing pregnancy — male condoms are 98% effective when used perfectly, and 82% effective in typical use. However, birth control pills will not prevent or protect you and your partner from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) unlike male condoms. 

Therefore, it is still important to practice dual protection for safer sex — use both birth control pills and condoms.

How To Take Yasmin® Birth Control Pill?

Yasmin® contains 21 active pills. You should take one pill at the same time every day for 21 days, followed by 7 days where you take no pills. During the pill-free days, a withdrawal bleed usually occurs that is similar to having your period. After the 7-day pill-free interval, start on a new pack of Yasmin® whether or not you have any menstrual bleeding.

You should swallow each pill whole with water. Do not chew the pill. The back of the pill strip states the days of the week (Monday – Sunday). Start your course by taking a pill marked with the correct day of the week and follow the direction of the arrows on the strip.

What To Do If I Missed My Yasmin® Birth Control Pill?

You should establish a regular routine of taking your birth control pills at the same time every day during the 21 days. This is because taking a pill late or missing pills may affect the effectiveness of the pill in preventing pregnancy. 

Yasmin® is considered “missed” if you:

  • don’t take it for 24 hours or more after you were supposed to; or
  • vomit or suffer from diarrhoea within 3 to 4 hours of pill-taking.

If you forget to take a pill, here’s what you should do: 

​​If you are late (less than 24 hours) or missed (24 to 48 hours) an active pill

You’re still protected against pregnancy if you missed 1 pill anywhere in the pack or started a new pack 1 day (24 hours) late. 

Follow these steps:

  1. Take the late or missed pill immediately
  2. Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day)
  3. Take the 7-day pill-free break as prescribed or if you’re on an everyday pill, take the inactive pills 
  4. Emergency contraception is not usually needed but can be considered if hormonal pills were missed earlier in the cycle or in the last week of the previous cycle
  5. No additional contraceptive protection (e.g. condoms) needed

If you missed two or more active pills (48 hours or more)

When this happens, it greatly increases your chances of ovulation. In this case, when you missed 2 or more active pills anywhere in the pack or started a new pack only after 2 days (48 hours) or more, you may not be protected against pregnancy. 

What you should do:

  1. Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day 
  2. Discard any earlier missed pills 
  3. If the missed pill is within: 
    • Week 1 (pills 1 to 7) or Week 2 (pills 8 to 14) of the pack:
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • Take a 7-day break
      • Begin a new pack the next day
    • Week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 21): 
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • When you have finished taking all the active pills, discard the pack
      • Don’t take the 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day
  4. Consider taking emergency contraception if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days
  5. Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex for the next 7 days 

What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Yasmin®?

Women who just started taking Yasmin® may experience some of the following side effects:

  • Nausea, vomiting, bloating and stomach cramps. Take Yasmin® after food to reduce these side effects. 
  • Headache. Can be managed by taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol.
  • Spotting between your periods during the first few months of taking oral contraceptives.
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight changes due to fluid retention, mood swings. Take Yasmin® at the same time every day to avoid huge changes in the hormone levels in your body.

Side effects vary widely among individuals and usually ease within 2–3 months of starting to take the pill as your body adjusts to the hormones. Inform your doctor if the side effects last for a long time (more than 3 months) or bother you.

How To Buy Yasmin® In Singapore?

Birth control pills are only available with a prescription, so you need to consult a doctor. Conventionally, this means you would need to carve out time to go down to a clinic for a doctor’s consultation before you can get started on birth control. 

Siena is a digital health clinic that offers you easy and affordable access to birth control. Simply complete an online questionnaire, and speak with a doctor online from the comfort of your home. If prescribed, we deliver your birth control to you in discreet packaging at no additional charge.

References

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Birth Control Health

Why You May Be Bleeding Or Spotting While On Hormonal Birth Control

causes of breakthrough bleeding

Perplexed as to why you’re finding bloodstains on your underwear or pad even though you’re not on your period? Or worse still, you freak out thinking of the worst-case scenario. 

More often than not, however, you may just be experiencing breakthrough bleeding.  

What is Breakthrough Bleeding? 

It refers to any type or amount of bleeding that occurs outside of your normal menstrual period or even during pregnancy. This could be spotting or heavy bleeding that may even require you to wear a pad or tampon.

Spotting is easily recognisable by tiny pink or red spots and usually lasts for a few days. It also isn’t as serious compared to heavy or continuous breakthrough bleeding. 

Some may also find that they simultaneously experience lower abdominal cramps (similar to menstrual cramps) a few days before or during breakthrough bleeding.

Breakthrough bleeding is usually painless and mostly harmless although of course, it can be an unpleasant and uncomfortable feeling. Here’s more of the science and facts behind it so you understand why it happens if you ever experience it. 

A Potential Side Effect of Hormonal Birth Control 

Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect that some birth control users experience within the first three to four months after starting hormonal birth control. In that case, this includes any contraception method containing hormones as they’re all likely to cause breakthrough bleeding:

Why do hormonal birth control cause breakthrough bleeding? 

This happens because your body has to take time to adjust to the new hormones. As you experience changing hormone levels, it also alters the endometrial lining in your uterus which thus, causes a change in or disruption of your usual period cycle. Ultimately, this leads to breakthrough bleeding. 

If you’re on oral contraceptives, there’s another reason why you may be experiencing breakthrough bleeding.

When you take a break in between pills (i.e. skipped a dose, frequently forgetting to take your pills on time or you’re on the inactive pills for a week), breakthrough bleeding can also occur. This is a reaction to your body’s attempt in detecting and responding to fluctuating hormone levels which then causes the premature shedding of part of your uterine lining before your period’s due date. 

Spotting is a pretty clear indication that your body hasn’t yet adjusted to the hormones in your birth control or that you missed your pill. Typically, breakthrough bleeding should stop after a few months of consistent use.

But if it does persist, it’s highly recommended you consult a doctor. This could mean your current birth control method might not be the most suitable for you and you may want to consider another method, or it could also be a sign of another bleeding disorder. 

Other Possible Factors That Cause Breakthrough Bleeding

Besides hormonal birth control, there are other reasons which may explain your breakthrough bleeding. 

1. Age

If you’re in the early and developing stages of puberty, you’re more likely to experience breakthrough bleeding after starting your period. Your body requires time to go through several cycles before establishing one and balancing your hormones. 

Women who go through menopause may also experience spotting and irregular periods once they’re no longer in their reproductive years. During perimenopause (also known as a menopause transition preceding menopause by several years), some women may be more susceptible as well. 

2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) 

Specifically, chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause excessive bleeding due to the irritation of your cervix, or neck of the uterus. This in turn can lead to unscheduled bleeding.

3. Pregnancy

Breakthrough bleeding can also happen when a fertilised egg attaches itself to your uterine lining, also known as implantation bleeding. But unfortunately, it can also be a sign of an impending miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.

4. Other conditions 

The following are several conditions that may also cause unscheduled bleeding: 

  • Cervical cancer — bleeding between periods and especially after sex
  • Endometriosis — a painful condition in which the endometrium grows outside the uterus, thus causing spotting and other painful symptoms
  • Endometrial hyperplasia — overly thick uterine lining that causes bleeding 
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — a hormonal disorder due to lack of ovulation that produces small cysts in the ovaries and diminishes progesterone levels; excess estrogen causes thickening of the uterus 
  • Uterine fibroids and polyps — benign growths that can cause spotting in between periods, or even after a woman has gone through menopause

Recommendations to Manage Bleeding or Spotting 

It’s unlikely you can stop or avoid breakthrough bleeding once it happens BUT you may be able to decrease the likelihood of even experiencing it though this is dependent on the cause of your bleeding.

For instance, if you know for sure your hormonal birth control pill is the cause for your irregular bleeding, simply ensure that you stick to a consistent schedule by taking the pill around the same time each day without missing a dose. 

If you’re new to birth control, remember it’s normal and breakthrough bleeding should stop after three months. But if the bleeding is frequent, heavy or often accompanied by pain, it might be a warning sign you should attend to as early as possible.

Easing Your Worries

Spotting is common and is usually no huge cause for concern. As a precaution, you may find it useful and important to keep track of when spotting or bleeding occurs and take note of how light or heavy the bleeding is, as well as the frequency of your breakthrough bleeding. 

But of course, if you’d rather be on the safe side, definitely speak with a doctor to rule out more serious health conditions. Or if you simply want to know more about your birth control options, you can comfortably do so at Siena where you can connect with any one of our female doctors from the privacy of your own home! 

References: 

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Birth Control Health

Hormonal Birth Control, Blood Clots and COVID-19: Should You Be Concerned?

Image credit: Adobe Stock / Getty Images

You may have heard of this rare side effect that comes with taking hormonal birth control — blood clots. But is it actually a real cause for worry?

Hormonal birth control remains one of the safest and most effective methods to prevent pregnancy and even has other benefits like alleviating painful period symptoms. 

But, as with all kinds of medications, there are bound to be certain side effects. This article will deep dive further to understand the risks of blood clots from hormonal contraceptives, as well as the connection between COVID-19 and blood clots for those who are taking birth control (and you’ll see that there really is no major cause for worry). 

What are Blood Clots?

Blood clots form when certain parts of your blood thicken and subsequently become a semi-solid mass. Sometimes, clotting occurs in areas it’s not supposed to and can cause damage. Types of dangerous blood clots include:

1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is a clot that forms inside one or more of the deep veins in specifically the legs or the arms. (Source: Pandia Health)

Several signs of DVT include: 

  • Swelling (near the area of the clot) 
  • Leg or arm pain and tenderness which may feel like cramps 
  • Red or blue skin discolouration at the area where the clot formed 
  • Warm skin

2. Pulmonary Embolism (PE) 

PE happens when the clots that form in a DVT break loose and travel up to the lungs via the bloodstream, thus blocking blood flow. It is best to treat this type of blood clot as soon as possible and this requires you to recognise some of the signs and symptoms. (Source: Pandia Health)

  • Shortness of breath 
  • Chest pain that intensifies when you take a deep breath 
  • Elevated heart rate 
  • Bloody cough

Hormonal Birth Control and Blood Clots

Birth control does not cause blood clots. However, it is associated with an increased risk of blood clots.

Why is there a risk of blood clots associated with hormonal birth control? 

Combined hormonal birth control such as the pill, patch and the vaginal ring contains the hormones estrogen. As estrogen increases plasma fibrinogen and coagulation activity in the body, this may lead to the development of blood clots. However, estrogen does not directly cause blood clots. What it does is increase both the risks and levels of clotting factors. 

Blood clots from the birth control pill are extremely rare

Between three and nine women in every 10,000 who take oral birth control pills will develop a blood clot, according to data from the FDA (That’s a 0.3 to 0.09% risk if you prefer to think of it that way). Further studies also found that only 1 in 3000 women per year who are on the pill will develop a blood clot. 

This means that your risk of experiencing a blood clot while using the pill is very small.

Birth control has become increasingly safe over time

The risk for DVT or PE is overall very low with hormonal contraceptives. In the past, combination birth control pills contained a higher dose of estrogen, which increased the risk of DVT and PE. Now the combination pill contains a lower dose of estrogen, and the risk is reduced.

Factors that may affect your risks of blood clots

Although blood clots are rare, it is worth noting that risk changes accordingly with other factors like:

  1. Age (generally above 45)
  2. Certain medical conditions such as family history of heart disease or blood clots
  3. Behaviours like smoking: Every additional cigarette increases your risk. Your risk of experiencing a blood clot from using birth control is higher if you smoke, with smokers aged 35 or older the highest risk group.

It’s important to inform your healthcare provider when you discuss birth control if any of the factors above apply to you.

Hormonal Birth Control, COVID-19 and Blood Clots

Does COVID-19 increase my chances of getting blood clots if I’m on hormonal birth control?

The short answer is no.

COVID-19 has been shown to cause clotting throughout the body. At this point, it is not established that you’re at a greater risk for getting blood clots if you contract the coronavirus while on hormonal medication. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

Should I stop taking hormonal birth control during the pandemic?

In fact, it is advisable to continue using combined oral contraception without stopping unnecessarily to reduce the risks of unplanned pregnancy. There has been no evidence thus far pointing to any health outcomes associated with the use of contraception prior to and during COVID-19 infection. (Source: The Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists)

Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine while on hormonal birth control?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is safe for people on hormonal birth control to receive any FDA-authorised COVID-19 vaccine. There has also been no observed risk for those who received the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines while taking hormonal birth control.

Even so, it’s important to remain open and honest with healthcare professionals about the medication you’re taking.

In Conclusion

While blood clots can become a serious health issue, it is safe to say that there generally isn’t much risk associated with birth control and it will not severely impact your reproductive health. 

Some advice to reduce risks of blood clots includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet and watching your weight. 

If you are still unsure or concerned, connect with one of Siena’s doctors to speak about your personal risk for blood clots and the best birth control option for you.

References:

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Birth Control Health

Does Birth Control Make You Gain Weight?

The truth about birth control and weight gain: it is largely due to water retention instead of actual increase in body fat! 

Are you reluctant to get birth control because you believe it may cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a common risk that most women are afraid of when it comes to birth control. And we do recognise why this may be a cause of concern. It’s one of those side effects you’re bound to constantly debate about with your girlfriends and still come to no clear conclusion at the end of the day.

But is this necessarily true? 

With a wide range of birth control options available now, it’s inevitable different individuals may react differently as well. Especially as birth control is more effective if you use it consistently, weight gain is also attributed to other factors such as lifestyle habits and routines or changes in metabolism as you age.

Most women don’t experience weight gain 

This may come as a form of reassurance but the majority of people on birth control do not actually experience weight gain. Any initial increase in weight is due to water retention rather than an increase in body fat and mass. As birth control may initially lead to water retention, you may feel a little bloated at the start. These effects are temporary and go away within a few weeks after starting birth control.

In fact, a 2008 study of 150 female athletes over two years found that oral contraceptives did not cause weight or fat mass gain. Similarly, a 2014 systematic review revealed that there was no significant causal relationship between weight gain and combination contraceptives as women taking birth control, compared with those in the placebo group, showed no substantial difference in weight.  

All in all, the hormones in birth control may trigger bodily changes but the idea that birth control leads to lasting weight gain is not a factual claim. 

Higher estrogen levels

Combined hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches and even the vaginal ring typically contain estrogen which prevents ovulation. This occurs as a compound (renin-angiotensin) created by the kidneys becomes stimulated because of the additional estrogen circulating throughout your body. This prompts your body to retain more fluid before your period. Essentially, higher estrogen levels may lead to a slightly higher level of water retention for those on the pill. However, there will usually be a decrease in weight after your period is over. 

Most birth control pills have approximately 30 to 35 micrograms of hormones but if you’re worried about the current dosage of estrogen in your pills, it’s best to consult your doctor and opt for a low-dose estrogen pill which will contain around 20 micrograms of estrogen.  

Higher doses of estrogen can potentially stimulate appetite, which may cause increased calorie intake in some women. 

Birth control implants and shots may be exceptions 

Hormonal implants, which are a form of long-term, reversible birth control may cause weight gain. This method works by inserting an implant into your arm, thereby releasing a synthetic hormone called etonogestrel into your bloodstream. Etonogestrel imitates progesterone by attempting to regulate your menstrual cycle alongside estrogen. 

Birth control shots can contribute to an increase in weight gain from water retention as its effects are meant to last for three months. Alternatively, you may want to opt for low-dose estrogen birth control pills instead. 

A final note

Always check with your doctor if you’re worried about the potential side effects or switching to a new type of birth control that fits your lifestyle. Other plausible causes for sudden weight gain may also be due to underlying health conditions such as thyroid disorders and diabetes. If you do experience bloating, keep in mind it is only temporary and there are other ways you can cope!

Here are some tips on how to reduce water retention: 

  • Lesser salt intake 
  • Staying well-hydrated 
  • Exercise consistently to move your muscles 
  • Wearing compression stockings during prolonged standing 

At Siena, we want to find the most effective and suitable birth control for you that also steers you away as much as possible from any unwanted side effects! Speak to any of our female doctors now from the comfort of your own home to explore your options.

References:

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Birth Control

Guide to Birth Control Methods in Singapore

What is Birth Control?

Birth control, also known as contraception, anti-conception, and fertility control, is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. Although birth control has been used since ancient times, effective and safe contraception methods only became available in the 20th century.

Birth Control in Singapore

One of the most commonly practised birth control methods in Singapore is the rhythm method (sex only while you’re not ovulating) and withdrawal (pull out) method, which is not super effective. After all, sperm can be extremely tricky – they can live inside the vagina and the rest of the reproductive tract for up to around six days.

Another common method is male condoms. Condoms can be readily bought at any convenience store or supermarket and offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, they are only about 85 percent effective in preventing pregnancies (one of the lowest). The effectiveness of condoms depends on when and how it is put on and there is also a risk of condoms tearing during sex.

There are other birth control methods that have higher success rates – but they can cost more money, take more discipline to use or require more commitment. All require a doctor’s prescription after a thorough consultation.

Types of Birth Control Methods

These contraception options can be split into 2 major categories – Temporary and Permanent.

ContraceptionTemporary (Reversible)Permanent
MethodHormonal birth control (Short-acting)
– Birth control pill
– Birth control patch
– Contraception injection

Intrauterine device (Long-acting)		Tubal ligation

To help you along, we discuss the common contraceptive methods in Singapore, their mode of action, effectiveness, pros and cons. Here’s what every responsible man and woman should know.

1. Birth control pill 

What are the best birth control pill brands?
Birth control pill

What is birth control pill?

Birth control pills are medications you take by mouth to prevent pregnancy. Hormones in the pills prevent pregnancy by:

  • stopping or reducing ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary)
  • thickening cervical mucus to keep sperm from entering the uterus
  • thinning the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg is less likely to attach

Effectiveness:

Used perfectly, most birth control pills are 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. In “real life” conditions (e.g. occasional missed or late dose), the birth control pills are about 91 percent effective. 

Pros:

  • you don’t need to use the pill every time you have sex in order to stay protected, unlike condoms
  • fertility returns immediately when you stop taking it
  • lower risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer
  • non-contraceptive benefits such as:
    • helping to regulate the menstrual cycle;
    • manage acne; and
    • improve PMS symptoms.

Cons:

  • not for those who hate popping pills
  • have to take the pill every day for it to work properly
  • not suitable for women with certain existing health problems, or medications

2. Birth control patch 

Contraceptive patches
Birth control / contraceptive patch

What is birth control patch?

The birth control patch is a thin skin patch that is worn anywhere on the abdomen, thigh, buttocks or arm and changed weekly. The patch releases a daily dose of hormones (estrogen and progestin) through the skin into the bloodstream to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs each month (ovulation). It also thickens the cervical mucus, which keeps sperm from getting to the egg. (Source: MayoClinic)

Effectiveness: 

Used perfectly, most birth control patches are 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. In “real life” conditions (e.g. forget to replace the patch or patch is not stuck properly), the birth control patches are about 91 percent effective. 

Pros:

  • good alternative for people who find pill-popping a hassle

Cons:

  • the patch is not transparent
  • might be uncomfortable due to Singapore’s hot and humid weather
  • some women get insecure because they are unsure if it will fall off

3. Contraceptive injection 

Understanding Combined Contraceptive Injections
Contraceptive injection

What is contraceptive injection?

The contraceptive injection is a shot of hormones given by your GP or gynae to prevent ovulation and has to be repeated every 90 days.

Effectiveness:

Used perfectly, most contraceptive shots are more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. In “real life” conditions (e.g. missed or late shots), the contraceptive shots are about 94 percent effective. 

Pros:

  • good alternative for people who find pill-popping or changing patches a hassle
  • suitable for breastfeeding mums
  • light or possibly no periods after a year

Cons:

  • weight gain and irregular bleeding in the first three months are possible as your body adjusts
  • takes 6 to 12 months to regain fertility after you stop the injections

4. Intrauterine device (IUD) 

Caucasian woman holding IUD in hand
Intrauterine device (IUD)

What is IUD?

An IUD, or the coil, is a small T-shaped device that is inserted and left in your uterus to prevent pregnancy. Some IUD types work by releasing small amounts of hormones, while others use copper to trigger your immune system to prevent pregnancy.

Effectiveness:

More than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy

Pros:

  • can be left in the womb for up to five years
  • fertility returns immediately once you remove it

Cons:

  • may cause irregular bleeding or spotting
  • usually not recommended as the first choice for anaemic women or those who have heavy periods
  • there is a small risk that the IUD may fall out and cause an infection during the insertion (in rare instances)
  • difficulty in removing the device.

5. Tubal ligation

Tubal ligation

What is Tubal Ligation?

During a tubal ligation (female sterilization), the fallopian tubes are cut, tied or blocked to permanently prevent pregnancy. Tubal ligation prevents an egg from travelling from the ovaries through the fallopian tubes and blocks sperm from travelling up the fallopian tubes to the egg. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

Effectiveness:

More than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy

Pros:

  • a good option for women who are certain that they no longer want more children
  • does not affect your hormone levels and you’ll still have periods

Cons:

  • irreversible
  • small risk of complications as with any surgery, such as internal bleeding, infection or damage to other organs

Which Birth Control Method Is Right for Me

When it comes to birth control, you have options and there are no bad options.

What suits you will depend on factors such as your age, frequency of sexual activity, family history regarding certain illnesses, comfort level when using a particular method, and level of desire to be pregnant in the future.

And remember, you don’t have to figure it out all on your own. Before settling on any option, do your own research or speak with your doctor to figure out which contraceptive will work best for you.

At Siena, you can speak to one of our female doctors in the privacy and comfort of your home, order your contraceptives online and get them delivered to your door in discreet packaging. Feel free to reach out!