All combination birth control pills contain estrogen (typically ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin. The term progestin is used for any natural or man-made substance that has properties similar to natural progesterone. In contrast to estrogen, there are many types of progestin found in various oral contraceptive brands. The older progestin types are usually referred to as first- and second-generation while the newer ones are called third-generation (and fourth).
Progestin Amounts
Comparing estrogen is fairly simple since all combination birth control pills use the same type of estrogen; this makes it possible to compare dosages simply by quantity. On the other hand, because pills use different types of progestin (each of which has a different strength), it is much harder to compare progestin levels across pills. The amount of progestin found in birth control pills is fairly small and is usually denoted in milligrams (mg). What this means is that even if two brands have the same progestin dose, they may have different types of progestin, so the potency can vary widely.
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A look at some of the best birth control pills for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormone disorder that can cause infertility. Hormonal birth control that contains both estrogen and progestin. That being said, I think it would be helpful to compare the hormone levels in various birth control pills, so you can be educated and ask the right questions when you discuss your options with your doctor. Comparison of Hormone Levels in Birth Control Pills. Birth control pills are prescription-based synthetic hormones.
Types of ProgestinBirth Control Brand Comparison Chart
There are many types of progestins, and each has a different profile in terms of progestational, estrogenic, and androgenic activity and/or effects. The result of these effects is dependent on the combination of the type and level of progestin and the level of estrogen.
Because the hormones found in each type of pill are different, and because every woman responds differently to the pill, these general guidelines may not apply to all women. Optima bold italic font free. To better understand how a progestin may be classified, it is helpful to clarify what effects a progestin may have on the female body.
Classification of Progestins
Combination birth control pills include an estrogen and one progestin. There are eight types of progestins. Most of these synthetic progestins are chemical derivatives of testosterone (known as 19-nortestosterone derivatives).
The available birth control pills that are classified under 19-nortestosterone can be further divided into two families: estrane and gonane.
Best Birth Control Pill Comparison Chart
Typically the third (and fourth) generation progestins tend to be highly selective and possess minimal androgenic properties. These include norgestimate, desogestrel, and drospirenone. There has been some evidence to suggest that the third generation progestins may carry a higher risk of blood clots.
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