From Acne to Cramps: What to Expect When Taking Birth Control Pills in Singapore
Birth control, commonly referred to as “the pill” is more than just a method of contraception (Martinez, 2024). They can help regulate menstrual cycles, manage acne after birth control, and even ease painful cramps (Cleveland Clinic, 2023). In Singapore, women often choose contraceptives like Yasmin birth control, Diane birth control, Yaz, Evra, and Postinor for family planning. However, each pill has different side effects and benefits that can vary for each individual. If you’re thinking about starting birth control pills or just want to know more, this guide will walk you through the essentials.
Why Take Birth Control Pills?
The main use of birth control pills is to prevent pregnancy, but they have other health benefits too. Some of them may:
- Regulate irregular menstrual cycles.
- Reduce the severity of cramps on birth control before the period.
- Improve hormonal acne.
- Control conditions like PCOS and endometriosis.
In Singapore, several trusted brands cater to different needs. Here’s the details:
Popular Birth Control Options in Singapore
Yasmin Tablet 21s (Box)
Yasmin is a popular birth control pill that combines estrogen and progestin.It helps manage acne, reduce bloating, and can make periods lighter with fewer PMS symptoms (MIMS, 2023). However, it may take a few months for your body to adjust, and some women may experience mild nausea or headaches at first.
Diane-35 Tablet 21s (Box)
Diane-35 contraceptive is a combination pill mainly used to treat hormonal acne by lowering androgen levels, which reduce excess oil and breakouts. It’s also helpful for women with PCOS (Bayer, n.d.). However, it’s not usually prescribed just for contraception because of its higher hormone levels. Talk to your doctor to see if it’s suitable for you.
Yaz Tablet 28s (Box)
Yaz is similar to Yasmin but has a lower hormone dose, making it ideal for women sensitive to higher hormone levels. It’s known for helping with mood swings and other PMS symptoms and is also approved to treat PMDD, a severe form of PMS (WebMD, n.d.). Like any pill, it may cause side effects like spotting or breast tenderness in the first few months.
Evra 6mg/600mcg Transdermal Patch 3s (Box)
If you dislike consuming pills, the birth control patch (Evra) is a great alternative. Applying it weekly helps release hormones to prevent pregnancy. It’s a good option for those who have trouble remembering daily pills. However, according to Mayo Clinic (2023), some women experience skin irritation, and it may be less effective for those over a certain weight.
Postinor-2 0.75mg Tablet 2s (Strip)
Postinor, the “morning-after pill,” helps stop pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control not working. For best results, it should be taken within 72 hours (MIMS, 2005). While effective as a backup, it’s not for regular use and may cause temporary side effects like nausea or changes in your next period.
What to Expect When You Begin Birth Control Pills
When starting any birth control method, it’s normal to experience some side effects as your body adjusts. Here’s what you might encounter:
1. Hormonal Changes
Birth control pills can affect your hormone levels, leading to side effects like mood swings, nausea, or mild headaches. It usually takes months to disperse.
2. Spotting Between Periods
You may experience spotting or light bleeding during the first few months. This is normal, but if it continues, talk to your doctor.
3. Skin Improvements
If you’re using pills like Diane or Yasmin for acne, your skin may improve after a few months. However, some women may have an initial breakout.
4. Lighter Periods
Some pills can make your periods lighter, shorter (Yaz and Yasmin). Some women may even skip their periods with continuous use.
5. Risk of Blood Clots
Combined pills can raise the blood coagulum risk. If you smoke or have a family history of clotting issues, consult your doctor about other options.
Choosing the Right Pill for You
Take a look at the options below to find the birth control that best suits your health profile and individual needs.
Disclaimer: Consult your healthcare provider before taking any of the medications or if you are unsure.
Where to Get Birth Control in Singapore
Birth control pills are now available at pharmacies, some need prescription and some don’t. You can get advice and prescriptions at places like polyclinics, private GP practices, or women’s health clinics.
Final Thoughts
Taking birth control pills can be a game-changer for many women, whether you’re looking to prevent pregnancy, manage acne, or regulate your cycle. Many brands provide different options to fit various needs. However, it’s important to remember that every woman’s body reacts differently, so patience is key when starting a new pill.
Remember to always consult with your doctor before using any medications, or if you are unsure. With the right guidance, you can find a solution that works seamlessly with your lifestyle and health goals.
Reference
- Martinez, L. (2024). Birth control pills. MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Reviewed by David C. Dugdale, M.D., Brenda Conaway, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007460.htm#:~:text=BCPs%20are%20also%20called%20oral,the%20hormones%20estrogen%20and%20progestin.
- Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Birth control pills (under Treatments & Procedures). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/3977-birth-control-the-pill
- MIMS. (2023). Yasmin, Consumer Medicine Information. Retrieved from https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/a6fd8f4a-46a6-4213-ac0c-a53300feff24-reduced.pdf
- Bayer. (n.d.). DIANE 35 – Patient Information Leaflet. Bayer. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.bayer.com/sites/default/files/DIANE_35_EN_PI.pdf
- WebMD. (n.d.). Yaz – Uses, side effects, and more. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-95358/yaz-28-oral/details
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Birth control patch. In Tests & procedures. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/birth-control-patch/about/pac-20384553
- MIMS. (2005). Postinor-2, Consumer Medicine Information. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/8ca8c752-66df-4261-aef6-a53300fec1fe.pdf
FAQ
To know if birth control is working for acne, look for fewer breakouts and clearer skin after 3 to 6 months. If your acne improves around your period or ovulation, it’s likely helping. If you see no improvement or worsening acne, consult your doctor for adjustments.
Cramps can be a side effect of birth control, especially when first starting. Some people experience lighter or fewer cramps over time as their body adjusts. However, if cramps persist or worsen, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor.
In some cases, birth control pills can make acne worse, particularly during the initial months as your body adjusts to the hormones. However, certain pills can actually help improve acne by regulating hormone levels. If acne worsens, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor.
Some people may experience tiredness or fatigue as a side effect of birth control pills, especially during the initial adjustment period. However, this side effect varies from person to person. If fatigue persists, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to explore other options.
Hormonal acne typically appears as deep, painful breakouts around the lower face, especially on the chin, jawline, and neck. It often presents as cystic bumps or pustules and tends to flare up before or during menstruation. Unlike acne caused by external factors, hormonal acne is usually linked to changes in hormone levels.
Yes, for many people, acne can improve after starting birth control. Birth control pills that contain estrogen and progestin can help regulate hormones, which may reduce acne breakouts. This is particularly true for hormonal acne, which is often linked to fluctuations in hormones like during menstruation. However, results can vary, and it may take a few months to notice improvement. It’s best to consult a doctor to find the right birth control for acne treatment.
Birth control usually reduces cramps, but some people may experience worsened cramps when first starting it. If cramps become worse, consult a doctor for adjustments.
Birth control can cause slight changes in facial appearance, like weight gain, bloating, or changes in skin, but these effects vary by individual. It’s important to consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Stopping birth control may improve or worsen acne, depending on the individual. For some, acne may clear up, while for others, it could return or worsen. It’s best to consult a doctor for guidance.
When you stop taking the pill, you may experience a few changes in your body, such as:
- Return of Your Natural Cycle: Your menstrual cycle may become irregular initially.
- Hormonal Changes: You may notice mood swings, acne, or changes in skin and hair.
- Return of Fertility: Ovulation can return quickly, making pregnancy possible right away.
- No More Side Effects: If you experienced side effects like headaches or nausea on the pill, these should subside.
It’s important to monitor how your body adjusts and consult a healthcare provider for any concerns.
Reviewed by Doctoroncall Panel Doctor.
