Vylette, a combination oral contraceptive pill, prevents pregnancy. This medication contains estrogen and progestin. Its main purpose is to prevent ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. Vylette also works by thickening cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg, and by altering the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of implantation. This dual hormonal action helps ensure effective pregnancy prevention when taken as directed.
Taking Vylette
Consistent daily use is important for Vylette’s effectiveness. A pack includes 21 active pills and 7 inactive pills, forming a 28-day cycle. Taking one pill at the same time each day helps maintain steady hormone levels. For those starting Vylette, there are two approaches: a “Day 1 Start” or a “Sunday Start.” With a Day 1 Start, you begin taking the pill on the first day of your menstrual period, providing immediate pregnancy protection.
If choosing a Sunday Start, the first pill is taken on the first Sunday after your period begins, even if bleeding is present. Use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for the first seven days. After completing the 21 active pills, the 7 inactive pills are taken, during which a period-like bleeding occurs. Once the 28-day pack is finished, start a new pack the next day without any break, even if bleeding has not stopped.
Missed Doses
Handling missed doses of Vylette correctly maintains its effectiveness. If one active pill is missed, take it as soon as remembered, even if this means taking two pills on the same day. Continue the remaining pills at the regular time; backup contraception is not needed. If two active pills are missed in a row during the first or second week, take two pills on the day remembered and two pills the following day.
In this scenario, use a backup method of birth control, like condoms, for the next seven days, as pregnancy risk increases. If two active pills are missed in the third week, or if three or more active pills are missed in a row at any time, discard the current pill pack and start a new one immediately. For these situations, backup contraception is necessary for seven days, and a healthcare provider should be consulted for guidance.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, Vylette can cause side effects, ranging from common to serious conditions. Common side effects may include nausea, weight changes, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood fluctuations. Some individuals may also experience spotting or light bleeding between menstrual periods, particularly during the first few cycles. These common side effects often lessen as the body adjusts to the hormones.
More serious, though less frequent, side effects can occur. These include blood clots, which can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, or heart attack. Other serious concerns involve liver problems or increased blood pressure. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as sudden severe headache, vision changes, chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg pain and swelling develop.
Non-Contraceptive Benefits
Beyond preventing pregnancy, Vylette offers several non-contraceptive benefits that improve reproductive health. Many users experience improved menstrual regularity, with more predictable and lighter periods. This can also lead to a reduction in menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea. Vylette may also help treat mild to moderate acne by reducing skin greasiness.
Vylette can also decrease the risk of certain health conditions. This includes a reduced risk of iron-deficiency anemia due to lighter periods, and a lower incidence of ovarian cysts. Long-term use has also been associated with a reduced risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.
Important Safety Considerations
Before starting Vylette, discuss suitability and risks with a healthcare professional. Certain medical conditions, known as contraindications, make Vylette unsafe to use. These include a history of blood clots, certain cancers, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or severe liver disease. Smoking, especially for women over 35, significantly increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects like blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.
Vylette’s effectiveness can also be impacted by interactions with other medications. Some drugs, such as certain antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, and herbal supplements like St. John’s wort, can reduce the contraceptive’s effectiveness, necessitating backup birth control. Inform your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products being taken. Regular medical check-ups are recommended to monitor for adverse effects and ensure Vylette’s safety and effectiveness.