Sequential oral contraceptives, also known as multiphasic oral contraceptives, are a type of birth control pill that contains hormones, specifically progestin and estrogen, in varying doses over the course of a monthly cycle. They are designed to mimic the natural hormonal changes that occur during a woman's menstrual cycle.
The term "sequential" refers to the fact that the hormone dosage changes at different points in the pill pack. Traditional oral contraceptives, on the other hand, are monophasic, meaning that the hormone dosage remains constant throughout the cycle. Sequential oral contraceptives typically come in packs that contain three different types of pills: estrogen-only pills, low-dose combination pills, and placebo or inactive pills.
The goal of using sequential oral contraceptives is to create a more natural hormonal balance in the body and reduce the side effects commonly associated with monophasic pills, such as breakthrough bleeding or mood swings. By adjusting hormone levels at specific times, sequential oral contraceptives can also provide better cycle control for women, allowing them to plan their periods more effectively.
It is important to note that sequential oral contraceptives are prescription-based medications and should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Like all hormonal contraceptives, they are highly effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. However, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so additional barrier methods, such as condoms, may be necessary for STI prevention.
