About Ortho Tri-Cyclen

Overview

Ortho Tri-Cyclen, or ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, is a hormonal form of birth control in pill form. It is commonly used among women in their child-bearing years to prevent pregnancy. Ortho Tri-Cyclen can only be acquired through a doctor's prescription. Each packet of pills is used in either a 21- or 28-day period. Ortho Tri-Cyclen can also be used for other reasons, such as treating women with severe acne.

How Ortho Tri-Cyclen Works

Otho Tri-Cyclen works by using female hormones to prevent the egg from ovulating. It also changes the amount of cervical mucus produced and the uterine lining, making it thicker and more difficult for sperm to pass through and fertilize the egg. The pill isn't immediately effective unless taken within six days after the last menstrual period; otherwise an alternative form of birth control in addition to the pill should be used. The pill, when taken properly, is between 92 and 99 percent effective.

When and How to Take Ortho Tri-Cyclen

Pills are taken daily from a packet that has designated days for reminders. To start, some people prefer to start on Sunday to get themselves in a routine with taking the pill. The entire packet has to be taken each month. Each pill should be administered at the same time every day to ensure maximum effectiveness. If the pill is missed for one day, the next day two pills should be taken and then continue with one pill for the remaining days. An alternate method of birth control should be used for two weeks.

Side Effects

There are some side effects when taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen. Some women experience irregular bleeding or spotting between their periods. Nausea, weight gain and breast tenderness are also less common side effects. These side effects generally go away after the body adjusts to the hormonal changes within the first three to six months. If symptoms persist, you should visit your doctor to determine an alternative birth control method or other options.

Advantages

There are some advantages to taking the pill other than protecting against pregnancy. A woman's periods may become more regulated and lighter while taking the pill. Ortho Tri-Cyclen does not hurt the body's ability to get pregnant in the future. The pill also does not interfere with sexual activity. In some cases the pill may also reduce a woman's risk of developing ovarian and uterine cancer.

Risks

There are some risks involved with taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen. The biggest one is it does not protect against HIV and the AIDS virus, or other sexually transmitted diseases. A condom should be worn with a new or non-monogamous partner to remain protected. There is also an increased risk in someone developing a heart attack, blood clot or stroke, and this can be more risky in someone who smokes while taking the pill. Anyone who has severe migraines, jaundice, liver cancer or a history of circulatory problems is not encouraged to take the pill.