Question

A woman has certain queries as listed below, before starting with contraceptive pills. Answer them. 

a. What do contraceptive pills contain and how do they act as contraceptives ? 

b. What schedule should be followed for taking these pills?

Answer 1

a. Contraceptive pills contain progestogen or progestogen-estrogen combination. 

They act by either of the following way: 

(i) inhibit ovulation 

(ii) inhibit implantation 

(iii) alter quality of cervical mucus to prevent or retard entry of sperms. 

b. Contraceptive pills should be taken daily for a period of 21 days starting within first five days of menstrual cycle (to be repeated after a gap of 7 days).