Yasmin, manufactured by Bayer Health Care, is a unique birth control method that is also prescribed to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). According to Bayerhealthcare.com, Yasmin contains the progestin drospirenone, which makes it different from other birth control pills. Drospirenone can increase potassium levels in the body, which can be harmful if you have kidney, liver or adrenal disease. Yasmin prevents pregnancy by preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries and preventing sperm from reaching an egg by increasing cervical mucus, according to Drugs.com. Taking Yasmin is quite simple but does require consistency.
Step 1
Take the first pill of the pack on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period begins. Drink a full glass of water with it. Consult your doctor to be sure you can choose what is referred to as a "Sunday start." Selecting Sunday as the first day to take the pill will help you remember when to start a new pack of pills and help with consistency.
Step 2
Record the time of day that you took the pill or make a mental note to always take the pill at the same time of day. Pick a time where you will be unlikely to forget. Ensure that the pill will be available to you at that time of day all the time. Yasmin is only effective when it is taken correctly and this includes taking a pill every 24 hours.
Step 3
Continue taking one pill per day for 21 days. These pills are the active pills containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, which are the hormones that make Yasmin effective in preventing pregnancy.
Step 4
Take the first inactive pill. This should be the first day of your period now. These inactive pills are white and do not contain any medication. They serve as a reminder to take a pill every day at the same time of day.
Step 5
Begin a new pack of pills after the inactive pills are gone.
Tips and Warnings
- If you miss a dose make it up as soon as you remember and then continue taking the pill at your normally scheduled time. If you miss two active pills take two at your regularly scheduled time for the current day and for the next day's dose. If you miss three pills, throw out the rest of the pack and start with a new pack of pills on Sunday.
- Use a back up method of birth control for seven days if you miss more than two active pills in one week. Read all precautions on the product information packet. Consult your doctor if you experience any uncomfortable side effects.
