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10 Ways to Remove Your Permanent Tattoo That are Super Effective
Inking or tattooing may mean different things for different people. For some, it is simply being stylish, for some, it may be to not go off memory, for some it may a lifestyle. However, it is somewhat a risk since in future you may feel differently about the tattoo that you have in your body and then removing it can be quite a task. In case you come up with a situation like this, then this article will help you to get rid of the unwanted without a twitch.
How to Remove a Permanent Tattoo?
Tattooing is a form of body art which is permanent. For most, a tattoo is an extension of themselves. It showcases people’s thoughts, beliefs and emotions. However, down the line, your thought process may change, you may not feel the same way about a certain someone, or you may just want it to be replaced by a new one. This is when removing it becomes necessary, but doing so is neither cheap nor easy and most importantly more painful than while inking it. Moreover, while doing so, it can cause a serious infection resulting in damages to the skin.
4 Surgical Methods to Remove a Permanent Tattoo
Tattoo removal can be just as tedious as inking it. Still, many people do not mind going through this rather cumbersome, expensive and painful process of tattoo removal. To help you to decide, here are four different surgical methods to try from.
1. Laser Surgery
People often ask, “Can a permanent tattoo be removed”? The answer is yes. The laser is by far the most common way to do so although the method is very expensive and painful too. In this method, importance is given more on the removal of ink rather than getting rid of the skin layer. Through this method, the ink’s pigment colours are broken up by exposing it to a high-intensity light beam. Tattoos which have been inked in black are easier to remove than tattoos having multiple colours. Passive and Active are the two types of laser methods through which tattoos can be removed.
The Passive laser tattoo removal method is usually done in beauty salons and is way cheaper than the Active method. However, the Active laser removal method, although a bit on the expensive side, is a more effective way of removing the ink. It is done by Dermatologists and requires several sittings.
2. Cryosurgery
Also known as cryotherapy, it is most often used in the removal of warts and in treating skin cancer. However, this therapy nowadays is used for the effective removal of tattoos too. Along with dermabrasion (another means to remove tattoos), cryosurgery is carried out by exposing the skin area with the tattoo to extreme cold temperature with the help of a freezing agent spray like liquid nitrogen. This causes frostbite in that particular skin area after which the area is abraded by the method of dermabrasion in order to get rid of the topmost layer of the skin.
Although an effective method for the removal of tattoos, it is extremely painful. Moreover, the method can damage the skin tissues while abrading the topmost layers. It is a complete “no-no” for multi-coloured tattoos since the method does not work well on yellow and green colour pigments. People who easily scar or have sensitive skin should do better without it. Being considered in the cosmetic surgery category, most often, insurance policies do not cover it.
3. Surgical Excision
This tattoo removal procedure is also pretty common and works best on tattoos which are small and which are in places which can be hidden since it can scar the area. Since the tattoo is removed surgically so it is spot on and neither does it result in any kind of allergic reactions like in the case of laser for some people. However, since this removal method requires stitches, it can leave a scar mark for the rest of your life and can also take months to heal.
4. Intense Pulsed Light Method
The broad spectrum of light used in this method helps in removing the epidermis by breaking down the colour pigments like in the case of the laser. With time, the area heals giving way to a new layer of skin through skin regeneration.
The best part about this method is that it is highly effective in removing tattoos and less painful, unlike in the case of laser therapy. However, it does not work well on people with dark skin colour and is also more expensive than laser removal method.
6 Easy Methods to Remove a Permanent Tattoo at Home
Although there are several surgical methods to remove a tattoo, you may try doing it at home by using natural products. Listed here are a few ways to help you through the process.
1. Honey with Aloe Vera, Yogurt and Salt
This naturally home-made concoction is a great way to get rid of an unwanted tattoo. Although it may take some time and several applications before you can get rid of the tattoo, it is undoubtedly one of the best natural ways. Moreover, the application of honey, aloe vera and yoghurt together does wonders for your skin and neither does it leave any scar behind as in the case of several other tattoo removal methods. All you need is to mix aloe vera pulp, honey, salt and yoghurt together. After you have cleaned the area of application, put the mix over it and massage the area with it. Over time and after several applications, the tattoo will fade away.
2. Lemon and Salt
Salt is rich in sodium and chlorine, and lemon juice has bleaching properties. Salt penetrates deep into the skin and helps the ink to fade out, and the vitamin C in lemon juice replenishes the skin. Therefore, this is a great way to remove a permanent tattoo with lemon juice. To try out this tattoo removal technique, mix salt and lemon juice together. Using a cotton ball dab the area with the tattoo with the solution and keep on rubbing it for half an hour to one hour. However, you will get a sore by all the rubbing so be prepared.
3. Apricot Scrub and Salt
Mix some apricot scrub along with some salt and rub it onto the tattoo. The salt abrades the upper layer of the skin, and the apricot scrub blurs the ink. However, this method is only partially effective in removing the tattoo.
4. Concealing it with Make Up
For people who cannot make up their minds for surgical tattoo removals or naturally removal methods for fear of it being either expensive or painful, covering it up with a tattoo concealer can be the best way out. These are not like any normal concealer but are specially meant to camouflage tattoos.
5. Home-Made Tattoo Removal Cream
It is best to avoid tattoo removal creams that are easily available in the markets. Instead, make one at home using natural and fresh ingredients. So how do you make one? Take fresh aloe vera pulp and mix it with one tbsp of Paderia tomentosa juice (fresh juice of the leaves would be best) and two capsules of vitamin E capsules. Apply the mix over the tattoo and massage it well. Then wash it with lukewarm water.
6. Wrecking Balm
The wrecking balm is a great way to get rid of a tattoo at home without any pain. All you need to do is massage it over the tattoo and have the patience for it may take a long time and many bottles before the tattoo fades away. The balm not only removes the tattoo but also nourishes the skin in the process. However, the product is a bit expensive but totally worth the money.
If you are regretting that impulsive tattoo and want to get it off, these are some tried and tested methods that you can use to get that unwanted tattoo off your body permanently.
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15 Fun Learning Activities for Kids
Spending time with your children is the best way to bond with them. While you and your child can decide what activities to do together, you can also make it a point to do a few fun activities that also double up as learning activities. This way, your child will learn things that are important while also having fun.
Educational Activities for Your Children
There are many educational activities for kids at home that you can introduce your children to. Remember to not force these activities on your child, she should be naturally excited about the activities. Try to suggest activities that suit your child’s personality and interests.
1. Twister Math
Take the old classic of twister and give it a numerical twist. Write down numbers on pieces of paper and stick them on each coloured circle. When you call out a number, you child must place their hands and feet on a combination of numbers that will equal the number by any mathematical operation - addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. For example, you call out the number 12, then your child can place his hands and feet on three and four which when multiplied gives you 12.
2. Tree Lessons
This is an activity that will help your little one learn the basics of natural science. Take your child for a walk and pick up a few interesting leaves and ask her to do the same. Once you get home, look up the leaves on the internet and identify which tree the leaves come from. Your child can maintain a scrapbook keeping all the leaves she has collected.
3. Egg-experiment
This is a great way to explain a few laws of science to your child. You will need a peeled boiled egg, a glass bottle with a round opening like a milk bottle, a small cardboard paper, and some matches. Light the paper and place it in the bottle of the clean bottle. Immediately place the egg on the opening of the bottle. As the paper burns itself out, the resulting vacuum will suck the egg into the bottle. This activity is a sure fire way to get your child excited about science.
4. Bird Feeder
If your child is interested in birds then you can help her make her own bird feeder. Take any old carton box and open up the two larger sides. String a strong rope through the top and suspend the feeder outside on a tree branch or hook. Place a seed mix at the bottom of the box and wait for the birds to visit.
5. Rain Man
This is an experiment that can tickle any child’s curiosity. Take a few tablespoons of water and add some food colouring to it. The richer the colour the more exciting will the results be. In a larger glass, fill water up to two-thirds. Top the rest of it with plain shaving foam. Add the coloured water to the shaving foam drop by drop using a dropper. When the foam gets saturated, the coloured water will ‘fall’ into the water below the shaving cream like ‘rain’.
6. Colour Caterpillar
Here you can teach your child the colour theory while also having lots of fun with your child. You’ll need five clear containers, water, and primary dyes. Use red, blue and yellow food colouring to get the primary colours. Place the water containers in a row with the coloured water alternating with the plain water. Take paper napkins and roll into a cylinder and put one end into the coloured liquid and the other into the plain water. Connect all the containers in this manner. Soon, you will see that the plain water is changing colours and is becoming a mix of two primary colours. In this way, you will get green with the blue and yellow, and orange with the red and yellow. You can also arrange the containers in a circle with a plain water container between the red and blue to get purple.
7. Volcanic eruptions
A simple yet delightful activity is building sand volcanos. You’ll need sand, a pipe, vinegar, and baking soda. Build a volcano around the pipe with the opening of the pipe in the centre. Fill up the tube about halfway to add more stability. Pour the baking soda into the pipe. Get your child to pour the vinegar into the opening for the eruption. You can also mix food colouring with the baking soda to get different coloured ‘lava’.
8. Secret Codes
Every child will love the idea of having a secret language only they and their friends can understand. Once you explain the basic principle of codes, your children can go ahead and create their own. You can begin by creating a key for your children which is what they will use to break the code. One of the simplest codes is to assign numbers to the alphabets. So, 1 will signify the alphabet A and 13 will signify M. They can also select a particular book and choose words from there by writing down the page number, paragraph, and word.
9. Slime
Which kid wouldn’t be fascinated with slime? Now, you can teach your kids how to make slime right at home while also learning how different things react with each other. Place half a cup of white adhesive in a bowl and add a small amount of liquid detergent to it. Mix it well. If the mixture is still too sticky, then add a bit more detergent. Your slime is ready!
10. Stylish Coding
It’s never too early to get into coding. You can teach your child about coding by making a necklace that spells your child’s name with the binary numbers – 0 and 1. Select two types of beads where one stands for 0 and the other for 1. Using the code, your child can string together the beads to spell out her name.
11. Star Gazing
One of the most magical experiences a young child can have is a visit to the planetarium. Your child will be exposed to the mysteries of the universe and how the earth plays a role in it. You can also help your child set up a telescope at home if she is interested.
12. Journal
Encourage your child to keep a diary at an early age. This will teach your children to not just chronicle the things in their lives but will help them explore their creativity. They can use stickers, draw or even add photographs in their journals. This is also a great way for children to keep in touch with their emotions and also process events.
13. Cook
Cooking can be a fun way for you and child to bond while they also learn an important life skill. Get them to help you with meal preparations by adding fun elements to the tasks. Depending on the age of your child, you can choose the complexity of the task. On special days, you can ask your child to decide what to cook for the whole family.
14. Maze
This is a great activity for your young child. Using just a chalk, you can draw a maze on the ground large enough for your child to fit in. Give your child a car and ask her to get out of the maze without crossing any solid lines. In this activity, you can encourage your child to think and use her imagination.
15. Smiley T-Shirt
Let your child explore her artsy side with this fun activity. Start with an old plain T-shirt. Mix a cup of flour with water till you get the consistency of ketchup. Pour this mixture into a squeeze-y bottle and draw a smiley face on the T-shirt. Let this dry in the sun. Use fabric spray paints to paint the shirt. Once dry, remove the flour mixture and you’ll be greeted with a smiley face.
As you can see, there are many kids learning activities that your child can enjoy where learning doesn’t seem like a chore. There are many additional educational activities that you can introduce your children to, like the Intellikit activity box. This activity box has eight activities, ten worksheets, age-appropriate flashcards and an exciting storybook for loads of fun and learning! Unlike toys that kids eventually get bored of, the Intellikit offers multiple activities that can be performed over and over again, honing your child’s developing skills.
The more you encourage these activities, the more your child’s imagination is activated! More learning, more fun!
Also Read: Best Out of Waste Craft Ideas for Kids Read more
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Can Taking Antidepressants Affect Your Fertility?
According to research, there is a correlation between the use of antidepressants and infertility. Some studies suggest that there is no conclusive evidence that female fertility is affected by the use of antidepressants, while most others show strong evidence that male fertility is affected by antidepressants.
There is also much debate and discussion on this topic. Firstly, antidepressants have side effects on one’s sex drive. That indirectly affects fertility. Sometimes, it can also be the other way around because trying to conceive itself can cause depression. That may make you take anti-depressants, which can affect your libido and ability to reproduce. Depression and its related problems can also impact your ability to conceive.
There is also the allied issue of pregnancy and anti-depressants, once you have already conceived. A theory suggests that stopping anti-depressants can cause a depressing pregnancy that can affect foetus health and result in preterm labour, miscarriages etc.
Does Antidepressants Cause Infertility?
Anti-depressants can cause infertility in men and not so much in women. However, one has to be cautious about concluding that anti-depressants are the real cause of infertility.
Depression itself affects one’s sex drive and fertility. Moreover, depressed people often indulge in substance abuse, over-eating, poor diet, and lack of exercise that lead to overall health issues that affect fertility. Higher levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, can also impact fertility.
Please consult your doctor for the exact cause of your infertility because it may be due to multiple factors and not merely due to anti-depressants.
1. Effects of Antidepressants on Male Fertility
Anti-depressants cause higher DNA fragmentation in sperms. This fragmentation may adversely impact the capability of sperms to fertilise eggs. This does not occur in the sperm of men who have never taken anti-depressants. So, anti-depressants may cause infertility in men. One of the most common anti-depressants is Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). These have also been associated with erectile dysfunction and ejaculation problems because they impact the hormones in the body. These are temporary and not permanent problems because they go away once stop the medication. However, SSRIs have a minimum impact on female fertility.
2. Effects of Antidepressants on Female Fertility
There is not much data available on how anti-depressants affect female fertility. A lot more research needs to be done on whether it’s the depression or the anti-depressants that affect female fertility.
Studies have suggested that at best it may affect the female libido with an indirect impact on fertility. Some studies concluded that SSRIs are comparatively safer for female use while conceiving and during pregnancy. According to another study, women on antidepressants find it difficult to conceive naturally.
If you are on antidepressants and trying to conceive, be aware that the researchers have concluded that being on antidepressant medication definitely decreased the chances of a woman getting pregnant that month.
If you are planning on getting pregnant while on antidepressants, consult your doctor to know how it impacts you.
What Should You Do if You’re Taking Antidepressants and Want to Have a Baby?
So, now that you have decided to have a baby while on anti-depressants, what is the best way forward? How to make antidepressants and conception go hand-in-hand for a healthy and safe conception? This is relevant also for the husband on antidepressants. Here are some tips for everybody:
Visit your doctor and discuss whether the anti-depressants are improving or worsening your condition, or having no impact on you. Discuss how the dosage can be adjusted accordingly.
You can try out alternative therapy like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), yoga, counselling therapy, family support, diet and lifestyle changes etc. These can help you reduce dependence on anti-depressants.
If you or your husband’s family has a history of depression, discuss it with a specialist. Find out what would be best for you, your family, and the baby to come.
You can take some other medication like Viagra along with anti-depressants to boost your libido.
Studies have suggested that sildenafil (Viagra), ‘improved sexual function in 55% of men’ when taken with antidepressants. But do not self-medicate. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you.
Try to stay off the anti-depressants sometimes. Try to conceive at that time. Check with your doctor if that is safe to do with the kind of anti-depressant you are taking.
If you have acute or complex depression use of anti-depressants are necessary and can even be a life-saver. So, please see your doctor before you take any steps.
Anti-depressants and fertility are both very complex and can have life-changing consequences. Therefore, make sure you talk to your doctor before making decisions.
Also Read: Fertility Supplements To Help You Get Pregnant Fast Read more
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Oral Contraceptive Pills
Contraceptive pills are medicines prescribed to women which, when taken in accordance with the menstrual cycle, can help prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Scientific advancements have made contraceptive pills an effective, safe, and affordable method of birth control.
What Are Birth Control Pills?
Birth control pills are pregnancy prevention pills (also known as Oral Contraceptive Pills or OCPs) which contain the female hormones namely estrogen, progesterone or both in fixed doses. These pills are devised to manipulate the hormonal levels during each menstrual cycle in order to prevent ovulation and hence pregnancy.
Types of Contraceptive Pills
Various forms of hormonal contraceptive pills are now available commercially. Most tablets contain either progestin (progesterone) alone or a combination of progestin with estrogen in a fixed proportion.
1. Progestin-Only Pills
Progestin-only pills or POP contain only progestin (a synthetic form of the human natural hormone progesterone) and have no estrogen content. POPs need to be taken orally on all days of the normal menstrual cycle. Since a normal menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, these pills are available in blister packs of 28 tablets. Unlike certain other formulations, one needs to consume these tablets on a regular and daily basis for optimum results. Taken as prescribed, you should ideally get your next period 28 days from the day you took your first pill of the blister pack. You might experience irregular cycles or abnormal spotting in the initial few months, discuss this with your doctor. POPs are associated with fewer side effects due to the absence of estrogen, like weight gain, etc.
2. Combination Pills
Combination pills contain progestin as well as estrogen.
These pills are further classified according to the dose and proportion of progestin hormone, as follows:
Mono-phasic Pill: fixed estrogen and progestin dose.
Bi-phasic Pill: fixed estrogen, while progestin dose is increased halfway through the cycle
Tri-phasic Pill: three different doses of estrogen and progestin that change every 7 days
Four phasic Pill: offer 4 different doses of estrogen and progestin in a 28 days course
Ninety-One Day Pill: contain a fixed dose of estrogen and progestin for 84 days.
These pills are available in 28 or 21 days blister packs. Like other formulations, these combination pills are initiated with the beginning of the menstrual period and continued till you get your next cycle. The only difference in the 21-day blister pack, is that only the first 21 tablets contain the active hormones, while the last 7 tablets are ‘dummy’ tablets with no active medication. The purpose of these 7 blank tablets is to keep you in a habit of taking daily pills and also provide a ‘pill free period’ to curtail the unwanted side effects of estrogen. Taken time to time as advised, each blister pack should last for 28 days of your menstrual cycle, and you should ideally get your menses in the last week of the course, while you are taking the dummy tablets.
Since oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are associated with irregular menses, you might not get your periods on time as expected, consult your gynecologist regarding the same. Continuous minimal spotting might be noticed in a few women while on OCPs.
3. Emergency Contraceptive Pill
These pills contain low doses of levo-norgesterol (an estrogen analogue) and are supposed to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
Deciding the Pill Type
Based on your physical parameters and hormonal or menstrual response, your gynecologist may put you on either a combination pill or a progestin-only pill course. The response to different pill regimens is subjective for different women, and compliance for these medications is the best tool to decide which type of OCP is best suited for you.
How Safe Are Birth Control Pills?
Generally, oral contraceptive pills are safe for most women with no existing medical conditions or long-term medications. However, there are certain conditions in which your doctor would adjust the dose or might advise another method of contraception to avoid side effects and drug-drug interactions.
Following is a list of conditions and medications in which case you might have to avoid OCPs;
Pregnancy and the initial few weeks after delivery: Pregnancy itself is a natural method of contraception, so if you are pregnant, there is no way your body can conceive another child and you don't need contraception. The initial 4-6 weeks after delivery when you are exclusively breastfeeding, OCPs are better avoided.
History of past or pre-existing cardiac problems, such as coronary diseases, heart failure, or valvular conditions.
Long bone fractures, morbid obesity, stroke, or bedridden conditions, predisposing to venous thrombosis in the lower limbs.
Hereditary coagulation disorders
Long-standing or complicated hypertension or diabetes mellitus
Connective tissue diseases, like systemic lupus erythematosus
Hepatic or liver malignancy, chronic liver disease
Patients on long-term warfarin, or anti-epileptic drugs
When Can You Start Taking the Pill?
Post delivery, the coagulation system is still hyperactive (pro-thrombotic and pro-atherogenic), it is advisable to wait for a period of around six weeks before starting OCPs to avoid any thrombo-embolic complications.
You may choose either abstinence from sexual intercourse or another method of contraception like condoms during this period. Once your menstruation resumes, it confirms that you aren’t already pregnant (if you have had unsafe sex) and also that you are ready to ovulate like used to before pregnancy. It is now safe to begin your oral contraceptives on the first day of your menstruation. Since OCPs are not effective in preventing pregnancy from day one, it is advisable to continue barrier contraception for the first few days or week, as a backup plan after starting OCPs.
Will You Need Any Backup Method?
To ensure safety against pregnancy, it is advisable to use another reliable method of contraception for at least 7-8 days after initiating oral contraceptive pills. Your partner may use a condom, since it has good results in birth control, besides protecting both of you from sexually transmitted diseases. Using a backup method definitely has an additive effect and raises the success rate of birth control when compared to a single method.
How Do Contraceptive Pills Work?
Oral Contraceptive pills mainly work either by one or both of the following mentioned mechanisms:
Ovulation Prevention: Ovulation is the formation and release of a mature ovum or egg from the ovaries of a female. It usually occurs on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle. The human sperm has a shelf life of around 4 days in the female genital tract, while the ovum lives for just 2 days. If unprotected sexual intercourse has taken place during this period of ovulation, the deposited sperm fertilises the mature ovum or egg. OCPs prevent ovulation by manipulating hormonal levels of estrogen, progesterone and hence Leutinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) which mainly control ovulation.
Spermicidal properties: OCPs thicken the cervical mucosa and create an acidic medium in the tract, which makes it unfavorable for the entry and survival of the sperm in the female genital tract.
How Soon Do the Pills Start Working?
Combination pills started exactly on the first day of your menstruation, offer immediate protection against pregnancy. However, if the pill wasn’t started alongside your menstruation, it may take up to seven days for it to offer protection. It is advisable to either refrain from intercourse or use a condom while having sex during this period.
Women who have started on the POP or Progestin-only pill, should either wait or use a backup method like condoms for the first two days for the pills to offer reliable protection. Also, if you miss a POP, better use a barrier for the next two days with your following pills.
How to Take Birth Control Pills
Birth control and contraception should be discussed with your partner and your doctor to help you choose the best suitable option. Once you are motivated to use OCPs, you should follow your doctor’s prescription, carefully read the user instructions with the blister packs. You should have extra blister packs, condoms, and emergency contraceptive pills always available with you.
Based on whether you have been given the 21 or 28 days course, beginning on day 1 of your menstrual period, you can start taking one oral tablet daily and continuously. The idea is to deliver active hormone in pills on the first 21 days of your cycle. The remaining 7 tablets are usually blank, sugar tablets or in some cases may contain low dose progesterone.
It is essential that you take the tablets regularly, preferably on the same time every day, irrespective of the frequency of sexual intercourse during the course. Unless you have unbearable symptoms, like vomiting, gastritis or diarrhoea, or any of the red flag signs described, do not discontinue the tablets in the middle of the course, as this may expose you to the risk of pregnancy.
Consult your doctor for any side effects due to the tablets. You may compensate an isolated missed dose, by repeating it as early as possible before the next dose. If you have been regular and compliant with your OCP regimen, you should mostly get your next menstrual bleeding started at the end of 28 days from the beginning of the course. This rules out a pregnancy, confirms that the OCP is working for you, and hints at starting the next blister pack.
How to Make the Pills Work Best for You?
Failure to take their OCPs regularly as prescribed, giving up the course due to unwanted side effects, and not keeping regular follow-ups with their gynecologists, are the commonly known reasons for failure of OCPs. The following few steps can help make these pills best work for you:
Keep an alarm, a diary, or using an app to remind you to take the pill.
Place the pillbox in your daily utility case or bag.
Your partner or other family members taking regular medications (pill buddies) can help remind you to take the pill.
Avoid too much tea and coffee, as these reduce the absorption of drugs.
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption to improve the efficacy.
Avoid taking other long-term medications, or take your doctors advice regarding them, as OCPs have a lot of common drug interactions, which reduce the efficacy of these OCPs.
Follow up with your gynecologist regularly.
Do not succumb to side effects with the medications, they can be avoided with your doctor’s advice and simple lifestyle modifications.
Since OCPs aren’t 100% effective, use a condom while having intercourse for better safety (against STDs) and efficacy (birth control).
Can You Use the Pills While Breastfeeding?
Barrier or physical methods of contraception like the use of condoms by the male are ideal for nursing mothers. Hormonal contraceptives are better avoided during breastfeeding. If you are advised hormonal contraception due to other indications, progestin-only pills are preferable. Estrogen is known to hamper the amount of milk produced by the mother. It is also better avoided in the first six weeks after delivery since pregnancy and estrogen both are pro-thrombotic and can increase the possibility of having blood clots especially in the large veins of the lower limbs.
Effectiveness of Contraceptive Pills
Overall efficacy of oral contraceptive pills is found to be around 97%, but practically it is accepted to have a success rate of 91% with the use of hormonal contraception only.
Good compliance with your medications, coordination with your partner and regular follow-ups with your gynecologist are the key factors for success in birth control with hormonal contraceptives.
Simultaneous use of other contraceptive methods, like condoms, can further improve the rate of pregnancy prevention significantly.
Benefits
Following are the key benefits of OCPs
Reversible: Unlike intrauterine devices (IUDs), OCPs can be safely discontinued whenever a pregnancy is desired and hence make for an easily reversible method of contraception.
Menstrual Benefits: OCPs can help regularize your menstrual cycles (however, it may be a cause of irregular menses in few cases).
Affordable and Customizable: OCPs are now included under many government-subsidized schemes.
Cancer Protection: OCPs help reduce the chances of ovarian and uterine cancers in women.
Treatment of Osteoporosis: OCPs are vital in the hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
Risks
Following are the major risks associated with the use of oral contraceptives.
They do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or STDs.
OCPs may interfere with the action of other drugs you may be taking, like warfarin, etc.
There is also significant hypertension and stroke risk.
OCPs are associated with breast cancer and cervical cancer.
OCPs are pro-coagulants and should be used with caution in people with coagulation disorders and smokers.
OCPs require a doctor’s prescription and need to be taken stringently on a regular basis daily.
Side Effects
Oral contraceptive pills are associated with certain side effects when used for a significant period of time. Although most of these side effects are mild, they might be quite distressing for some women :
Gastritis and nausea
Increase in body weight
Swelling and tenderness of the breasts
Occasional spotting and irregular menses
Mood swings
Use of oral contraceptive pills may be associated with a few serious symptoms including liver disorder, cardiac problems, or stroke associated with their use.
Symptoms That Indicate a Serious Problems
Following is a list of red flag signs while on oral contraceptives, which indicate that you should immediately consult your clinician
Acute chest pain
Dyspnea or shortness of breath
Hemoptysis or blood in sputum
Acute abdominal colicky pain
Unilateral swelling of leg, calf tenderness, or thigh pain
Migraines or throbbing headaches which begin or worsen after initiation of OCPs.
Slurring of speech, tingling or numbness, visual blurring, weakness of either limb.
Hepatic dysfunction: persistent vomiting, yellowing of skin, eyes, and urine, right sided pain or generalized distension of abdomen.
Medications That Make the Pill Ineffective
Oral contraceptives are known to have several drug interactions. Your doctor might provide you with a list of such drugs and chemicals which include,
Anti-tubercular drugs
Anti-fungal agents (like griseofulvin)
Barbiturates and few other sedatives
Anti-retroviral drugs Zidovudine and Stavudin.
Anti-epileptic drugs like Phenytoin Sodium
Commonly used antibiotics do not have significant interactions with OCPs and are generally permissible.
What If You Forget to Take Pregnancy Pill?
Missing your oral contraceptives while you are sexually active certainly carries the risk of an unwanted pregnancy. The risk, however, depends on certain factors, like which dose was missed, how many doses have been missed and whether or not another backup method like condoms, was used while having sexual intercourse.
Here are some guidelines for protecting yourself:
If you have missed a single daily dose of an active hormone pill, you may take it at the earliest continuing the further course at the usual time.
You need not repeat the dose, if you have missed one of the dummy tabs in the last seven days of the course.
If you had unprotected sex before starting another pack, it is advisable to take an emergency contraceptive pill.
If you couldn’t start your pack on time (i.e. from the first or fifth day of your periods, as instructed by your doctor), it is better to resort to barrier method of contraception, like condoms.
You may contact your doctor in case you have missed more than two doses, or have had repeated unsafe sex during this period, or if you have any unusual symptoms.
Using pillboxes, drug reminder applications, and alarms can help you remember to take your OCPs on time.
FAQs
What If I Vomit Or Have Diarrhoea After Taking The Pill?
If once a while you vomit immediately after consuming an OCP, you may take another pill instantly and continue your course as usual. If you are suffering from food poisoning or hepatitis or any form of gastro-enteritis wherein you have persistent vomiting and loose motions, you should consult your doctor. You might have to either temporarily discontinue OCPs and abstain from having unsafe sex if you want to avoid being pregnant, or you might have to switch over to another method of birth control till you recover completely.
When Can I Start Another Birth Control Pill Pack?
Depending on whether you are on a 21-day course or a 28-day regimen, you will start your next pack of oral contraceptive pills right after you finish your previous blister pack. This would usually coincide with the beginning of your next menstrual period. Irrespective of whether you get menses or no, you should start another blister pack of birth control pills.
What If I Decide To Get Pregnant Again?
When you plan to conceive while on OCPs, all you have to do is stop taking the pills. As soon as you discontinue the course, you are likely to get your menses started. This marks the beginning of your next menstrual cycle, which will see ovulation around the 14th day. You may plan sexual intercourse in this fertile period for a pregnancy. Few clinicians may advice waiting for a few normal regularly spaced menstrual cycles before you conceive. You should take your clinician's advice before stopping or altering your OCP course in order to conceive safely.
Does The Pill Protect From STD?
Although oral contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy quite effectively, unfortunately, they don’t offer any protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Barrier contraceptives like condoms, on the contrary, provide protection from all forms of STDs besides also serving as an effective birth control measure.
Which Are The Other Birth Control Options?
Besides hormonal contraceptives following are the other options for birth control:
Calendar method: Avoiding intercourse around the ovulation period or the 14th day of menses.
Spermicide gels: locally applied to the female cervix before intercourse.
Barrier methods: Condoms, vaginal rings, and diaphragms
Intrauterine devices: Copper T
Sterilization techniques: Tubectomy and hysterectomy
Is It Necessary To Take A Break From Pill Occasionally?
No, it is not necessary to take a break from OCPs unless you have significant side effects due to prolonged use. However, you may switch over to other methods as and when desired or advised by your health practitioner. Remember, unless you completely switch to another method, after stopping OCPs, you are at a fair risk of getting pregnant.
What If I Miss My Dose?
If due to some reason, you happen to miss your dose of OCPs, either try and avoid having sexual intercourse or ensure your partner uses a condom. You may take your missed dose without causing any gap in the course.
With recent medical advances, oral contraceptives are one of the most preferred methods of birth control practised by women worldwide. It ensures safety and reliability when used correctly according to a medical prescription. It also protects women against ovarian and uterine cancers.
Also Read: Natural Family Planning Read more
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Birth of a Mom - It Took Me a Little Longer Than the Birth of My Baby
12th January 2018 was the date when I delivered a baby boy. Yes everyone was happy and my watsapp was filled with congratulations messages. Sweets were distributed and moms were busy on calls telling every distant relative about the arrival of the baby. Families were rejoicing. Husband was looking overwhelmed as he cried when held the baby for the first time.
And me? I was numb. Physically as well as mentally.
Anaesthesia weared off after some time but mental numbness didnot go away.
I was blank. Doctor said "Aishwarya you will forget every pain when you will see your baby's face". But it didnot happen.
It did not happen for almost 3 months after my delivery. I faced almost all the challenges that any new mom can face, I struggled and cried and learned new tricks.
My day and night were spent thinking "What have I done to myself".
Yes I know a baby was born out of my womb, but a mom was yet to be born. And I was afraid as it was taking so long for me. I always wondered what actually is motherhood and why everybody calls motherhood a bliss. There was only pain and adjustments I could see.
Then one day, after 3months of my delivery, when I opened up my eyes in the morning, he looked at me and smiled. And it clicked. Instantly !
As if I was given some shots that the motherly love started running through my veins.
He kept on smiling at me until I smiled back and then he moved his eyes away. As if he was just waiting for my acknowledgement. He was busy in playing and exploring. But the smile and look that we exchanged, the charm with which he has made me spellbound, the innocence of his face and the glitter in his eyes made me a new person that day. My outlook was changed completely by the time I stepped out of the bed. I was looking at this little human being trying to roll on the bed, putting the corners of the pillow cover in his mouth, he was looking happy in his own world.
That day, I was changed.
That day, I cheated my husband as I fell in love with a boy who was not him.
That day, I felt a new form of love.
That day, a MOM was finally born.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
Can we have sex during pregnancy and is it safe?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. okay no problem if you don't have any risk factors ko. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. Dr meri baby 12 month running hai uska weight 6 kg hai uska growth nahi ho pa Raha hai to kya kare or over active hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. ok see c. if the baby is not having proper height and weight it means that baby is having failure to thrive baby needs investigations like TSH and other related test to find out the reason
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby hai boy nd girl one month 8 days when I check eye and ear which month
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken jjand the expert will give you the proper answer .
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. is white discharge in 8th month normal?
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. hi
yes
but if it is too thick or clear like water,if there other symptoms like itching, irritation, redness,foul smell from vagina, please visit your gynecologist
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
59 mins ago
Q. My son is 5 months old is suffering from cough..what to do?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
58 mins ago
A. Kindly consult your paediatrician they will examine the child and accordingly they can help you with the best medicine that you can offer to the child as of now and don’t give any medicine without taking an advice from your paediatrician please
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
49 mins ago
Q. hi. in Feb my period was last and I did pregnancy test in March its positive results but my belly is not being bigger
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
26 mins ago
A. Typically, your bump becomes noticeable during your second trimester. Between 16-20 weeks, your body will start showing your baby's growth. For some women, their bump may not be noticeable until the end of the second trimester and even into the third trimester. The second trimester starts in the fourth month.
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