Which contraceptive pill is best?

Sep 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Generally speaking, there is no absolute answer to the question of "which contraceptive pill is better." Contraceptive pills should be selected according to individual health conditions and needs. Common options include drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets, compound ethinyl estradiol ether tablets, levonorgestrel tablets, medroxyprogesterone tablets, and etonogestrel implants. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets are a type of combined short-acting oral contraceptive containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol.

Generally speaking, there is no absolute answer to the question of "which contraceptive pill is better." The choice of contraceptive should be based on individual health conditions and personal needs. Common options include drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets, compound ethynylestradiol ether tablets, levonorgestrel tablets, medroxyprogesterone tablets, and etonogestrel implants. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets: This is a combined short-acting oral contraceptive containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. It must be taken daily at regular intervals and works primarily by inhibiting ovulation. It has a high contraceptive success rate and can also help regulate menstrual cycles. It is suitable for individuals who require long-term contraception and have no contraindications.

2. Compound Ethynylestradiol Ether Tablets: This is a combined long-acting oral contraceptive composed of ethynylestradiol ether and chlormadinone. It only needs to be taken once a month and provides prolonged contraceptive effects. However, it may cause menstrual irregularities. It is suitable for those unable to adhere to daily dosing and who can tolerate potential menstrual changes.

3. Levonorgestrel Tablets: This is an emergency contraceptive containing levonorgestrel as the main ingredient. It is used as a backup method within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, working by inhibiting ovulation or preventing implantation. It should not be used as a regular contraceptive method, as frequent use may lead to menstrual disorders.

4. Medroxyprogesterone Tablets: These can be used as visiting-pill contraceptives and contain medroxyprogesterone. They are suitable for short-term use during visits (e.g., family visits). The medication schedule is flexible, with different regimens depending on the duration of the visit. It acts quickly and is ideal for individuals with temporary contraceptive needs.

5. Etonogestrel Implant: This is a subdermal contraceptive implant containing etonogestrel. It is inserted surgically under the skin of the upper arm and provides effective contraception for up to three years. It eliminates the need for daily pills and has a high success rate. It is suitable for individuals who tend to forget taking pills and have no contraindications to implantation.

Choosing the right contraceptive requires consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into account factors such as age, health status, and reproductive plans. Medication should be taken strictly according to medical advice or product instructions—do not stop or adjust the dosage arbitrarily. If severe discomfort or abnormal menstruation occurs, seek medical attention promptly to adjust the contraceptive plan.

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What preparations are needed before an abortion?

"Artificial abortion" usually refers to induced abortion. Generally, preparations before the procedure include preoperative examinations, physical conditioning, psychological adjustment, gathering necessary supplies, and understanding postoperative care instructions. Women are advised to strictly follow medical advice when preparing for the procedure, and to seek prompt medical attention if they experience abnormal bleeding, worsening abdominal pain, or other unusual symptoms afterward. Effective contraception should be used when pregnancy is not planned, in order to reduce the physical harm caused by induced abortions.

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What are the side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?

In general, emergency contraceptive pills are used as a post-coital contraceptive measure. Possible side effects after taking them include menstrual disorders, gastrointestinal discomfort, breast tenderness, dizziness, headaches, and irregular vaginal bleeding. Emergency contraceptive pills should not be used frequently. It is recommended to use them no more than three times a year and no more than once per month. Regular contraceptive methods should be prioritized for daily use.

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What does 'seven days before and eight days after the safe period' mean?

Generally speaking, the concept of "seven days before and eight days after" the safe period is based on estimating the safe period for contraception according to the menstrual cycle. It suggests that seven days before menstruation and eight days after its completion are considered relatively safe periods. However, this method is not absolutely reliable and should be evaluated in conjunction with individual circumstances. In daily life, if using this method as a reference for contraception, it is essential to first ensure a consistently regular menstrual cycle.

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What are the potential risks of taking emergency contraceptive pills frequently?

In general, taking emergency contraceptive pills in excess may lead to potential risks including menstrual disorders, reduced contraceptive effectiveness, hormonal imbalances, increased risk of gynecological diseases, and physical discomfort. It is recommended to avoid using emergency contraceptive pills as a regular contraceptive method. Instead, safer and more effective options such as condoms or short-acting oral contraceptives can be considered.