Oral contraceptives; a possible solution to acne

Oral contraceptives, also known as birth control pills are not just used for their namesake. For years specific kinds of oral contraceptive pills have been used as acne treatments. They are not usually prescribed as a preventive measure more of a long term solution, usually if all other treatments even antibiotics have not been successful in treating a woman’s acne or if a woman wants a form a birth control and happens to suffer from acne.

 Though in some people, one side effect of these types of contraceptive pills are that it can actually cause acne but if a birth control pill is prescribed for acne this is less likely. 

How Do They Work?

Oral contraceptive pills are a combination of progestin and oestrogen. They modify the natural female reproductive cycle and hormonal patterns. Most birth control pills contain Ethinyletradiol as the oestrogen ingredient. Birth control pills reduce the amount of testosterone in the body,  a high amount of testosterone in the body can lead to breakouts but when the supply of testosterone is cut off the amount of oil that the sebaceous glands produce are reduced and the pores do not become as blocked. Certain birth control pills such as one called Yasmin, contains progesterone that limits the amount of androgen hormones in the body so reducing the chances of breakouts. It is best to make sure the type of oral contraceptive you are taking is suitable for the treatment of acne as some formulations can increase testosterone levels in the body making you more prone to acne.

How Do I Take Them?

Oral contraceptive pills are normally taken every day for three weeks. On the fourth week you do not take any pills, this is where the woman usually has her period (menstruation). It can take weeks and sometimes months for the pills to take effect so you should not get impatient, it is important to stick to the treatment even if it at first it appears to be worsening which can sometimes happen.

What Are The Side Effects?

The side effects that are most common while taking oral contraceptives are:

·         Feeling sick or being sick

·         Tender breasts

·         Weight gain

·         Mood swings

·         Bleeding between periods

Some side effects are more serious and include:

·         Blood clots

·         Strokes

·         Gallstones

·         Headaches

·         Increased blood pressure

·         Depression

Mild side effects usually settle down once the body adjusts to the medication but if you experience any of the serious side effects or the side effects persist you should stop the medication immediately and consult a doctor.