Levlen

Levlen- a quick overview of this triphasic contraceptive pill (also known as Tri Levlen) that contains ethinyl estradiol plus levonorgestrel- two active synthetic female hormones that prevent ovulation.Triphasic pills contain three different doses of hormones in the active pills (changing every seven days during the first three weeks of pills). Some pills release the same dose of hormones throughout the menstrual cycle.

Levlen is an oral contraceptive pill that is mainly taken to prevent pregnancy but it is sometimes prescribed for other purposes. In preventing pregnancy, Levlen does two other main jobs besides preventing ovulation. It thickens the cervical mucous (around the neck of the womb) which makes it tough for sperm to swim through on their way to the egg. Levlen also thins the lining of the uterus which makes it difficult for a fertilised egg to embed itself, even if a
determined little swimmer does make it into the egg.

DO NOT to use Levlen/Tri Levlen if:

• you are pregnant or think you may be, as there will be a risk of harming the baby- tell your doctor at once if you have even the slightest suspicion or you have missed a menstrual period
• your new baby is less than a month old
• you are breastfeeding as hormones can pass through your breastmilk and may even slow down your production of milk

Stay away from Levlen/Tri Levlen if you have a history of:

• history of blood clot, stroke, diabetes-induced circulation problems or severe high blood pressure
• any hormonal-related cancers (like uterine or breast cancer), liver disease cancer
• abnormal vaginal bleeding
• migraine headaches,
• valve disorders
• or any history of jaundice

People who suffer from the above conditions and take hormones increase their risk of stroke, heart attack or blood clots-especially if they are woman over 35 and they smoke.

Your doctor will probably take you off Levlen/Tri Levlen temporarily if you are scheduled for surgery, medical tests or you need bed rest for a while.

How to take Levlen or Tri Levlen

Take one pill each day, at the same time if possible and 24 hrs. apart. Make sure you always have the next pack of Levlen on hand so you don't run out and risk missing several days -as you could get pregnant. If you wish to change brands of contraceptive pills or stop taking them, do not do this without consulting your doctor. It's a good idea also to have regular check ups while you are taking oral contraceptives like Levlen/Tri Levlen.

Condoms must be used with oral contraceptives, including Levlen/Tri Levlen if you wish to protect yourself against STD's but you knew that didn't you?