The number of birth control pill options can be overwhelming to a woman when trying to determine which birth control pill would be best for her. However, learning about the different types of birth control and talking about these differences with a doctor may make the process easier.
Combination Monophasic Pills
Combination monophasic birth control pills have a combination of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, but have the same amount of each hormone in every active pill in the package. Some women prefer this birth control pill option over a multiphasic option because hormone levels may stay more consistent and predictable, according to EMedTV.com. Some brand names of combination monophasic birth control pills include Yaz, Yasmin, Ortho-Novum, Ortho-Cyclen, Norinyl, Loestrin, Levlen, Deogen, Brevicon and Alesse.
Extended-cycle birth control pills are monophasic. These pills work the same as monthly monophasic birth control packages, but instead are taken continuously for a longer time so that the woman does not get a monthly period. Extended-cycle birth control brands include Seasonale, Seasonique and Lybrel.
Combination Multiphasic Pills
There are two types of multiphasic pills: biphasic and triphasic. Biphasic pills will contain two different formulas of active pills, while triphasic pills contain three different formulas of active pills.
Combination biphasic pills also include a combination of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, but the amount of each hormone may vary depending upon which active pill is taken. Some prefer this birth control option because it mimics the hormone fluctuation that naturally occurs with a woman's normal menstrual cycle, according to EMedTV.com.
Biphasic birth control pills include the brand names Ortho-Novum 10/11, Necon 10/11, Mircette and Jenest-28, while triphasic birth control pills include the brand names Triphasil, Tri-Norinyl, Tri-Levlen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen and Ortho-Novum 7/7/7.
Progesterone-only Pills
Progesterone-only birth control pills, also referred to as the "mini-pill," do not contain any estrogen. If you tend to have side effects when taking combination birth control pills, progesterone-only pills may be a good alternative. According to Drugs.com, use of these pills may result in less breast pain and fewer changes in mood and nausea than. Progesterone-only pills are also a good choice for breast-feeding mothers and women who cannot take estrogen due to certain medical conditions. However, it is important to note that progesterone-only pills are less forgiving when taken late. According to Aetna Intelihealth, taking the progesterone-only pill just 3 hours late can significantly reduce effectiveness. Ovrette, Nor Q-D and Micronor are three brand names of the progesterone-only birth control pills.
