How to Compare Estrogen in Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills combine estrogen and progestin to achieve circumvention of fertility in women through the prevention of ovulation. Available only with prescription, the most common forms of birth control pills that are currently handed out by pharmacies are the combination pill that combines estrogen and progestin in varying dosages and the mini pill. The latter is a pill that contains only progestin. Since the combination birth control pills currently on the market all contain the same estrogen--ethinyl estradiol--a comparison may be done by pill brand. Learning how to compare estrogen in birth control pills is going to help you anticipate and reduce the risks of certain side effects.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Check the leaflet inside your package of birth control pills. Conversely, check out different brand names online. Inserts are often posted on the manufacturers’ websites, and this is a great way to comparison shop estrogen levels before you head for your doctor’s appointment. Common dosages range from 20 mcg on the low end to 50 mcg on the high end of the prescribed amount.

2. Contrast the varying dosages of estrogen by the side effects with which they are associated. For example, high estrogen dosages have been linked to the development of acne, while lower estrogen linked with lower progestin dosages are associated with headaches in those susceptible to them.

3. Evaluate the effectiveness of the pill when it comes to bleeding between menstrual cycles. Termed "breakthrough bleeding," this side effect is most common for pills with 20 to 35 mcg of estrogen.

4. Compare estrogen in the birth control pills available to you by virtue of the risk for weight gain. By and large it is the high dosage pill—35 to 50 mcg—that cause the most fluid retention and associated weight gain, while the lower concentrations do not appear to have as much of a contributory effect.

5. Discuss with your doctor the various estrogen levels in connection with the progestin level contained within the pills. For example, 20 mcg pills may contain anywhere from 0.10 to 1 mg of progestin. This combination provides a risk for a variety of different potential side effects. Conversely, most 50 mcg pills contain 1 mg of progestin. The biggest fluctuation--by brand--is found in the 30 and 35 mcg pills which contain progestin ranging from 0.15 to 3 mg.

Tips & Warnings

• Never take a friend’s birth control pills! The estrogen and progestin levels must be tailored to your individual needs and medical history. Only after a doctor’s evaluation can you be prescribed the accurate level of these substances.

• Do not stop taking the pill in the middle of a cycle. Finish the prescribed cycle and then contact your physician during the placebo period to discuss possible side effects and also discuss products that might work better for you.

• Please note that this is only general information and is not meant to diagnose, treat or otherwise suggest medical treatment. Please visit your doctor for a diagnosis or medical opinion.

Resources

• Explore another birth control option at the NuvaRing.com website.
• Learn about the side effects and common problems women experience when taking the pill from the EpiGee.org website.
• Read up on the use of birth control pills at the WDXCyber.com website.
• Be up to date on lifestyle issues facing those taking the pill by reading the information at the YourTotalHealth.IVillage.com site.