Birth Control Pills vs. Plan B: A Comprehensive Comparison

Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. LH and FSH are crucial for egg development and implantation in the uterus. Progestin, a hormone present in most birth control pills, also thickens uterine mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. In some cases, progestin also prevents ovulation.

On the other hand, Plan B (levonorgestrel) is an emergency contraception method commonly known as the morning-after pill. It is used as a backup option when unprotected sex occurs or when regular contraception fails. Plan B works by delaying or preventing the release of an egg from the ovary. However, it does not hinder egg fertilization or implantation in the uterus. It is essential to note that Plan B is ineffective for women who are already pregnant or should not be taken during pregnancy.

Side Effects: Birth Control Pills vs. Plan B

Oral Contraceptives

Common side effects of birth control pills include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, weight gain, irregular bleeding, and mood changes. These effects usually diminish after a few months, and rarely pose a serious threat. Women with migraines may experience varying frequency, with a possible improvement in symptoms due to stable hormone levels.

Although rare, oral contraceptives might increase blood pressure, promote blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. Certain individuals, such as smokers aged 35 and above, or those with existing medical conditions like blood clot history, breast or endometrial cancer, are advised against oral contraceptive use due to heightened risks.

Plan B

Common side effects of Plan B include:

Dosages: Birth Control Pills vs. Plan B

Oral Contraceptives

Birth control pills are available in dispensers marked with consecutive numbers or labeled by days of the week. Women may start taking pills based on specific instructions related to the first day of menstruation. The pills are often packaged as 21-day or 28-day units, with or without placebo tablets. Alternatives such as extended-cycle oral contraceptive regimens exist.

New users should employ additional contraception for the first seven days to prevent pregnancy.

Plan B

• Single dose regimen: Take one 1.5 mg tablet within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
• Two-dose regimen: Take one 0.75 mg tablet within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, followed by a second 0.75 mg tablet 12 hours later.

Drug Interactions: Birth Control Pills vs. Plan B

Oral Contraceptives

Cyclosporine blood levels may increase when combined with estrogens, potentially leading to kidney and liver damage. Estrogens may also enhance the risk of liver disease in individuals receiving dantrolene. Additionally, estrogens can affect the performance of anticoagulant medications like warfarin. Although some antibiotics and antiseizure medications can decrease oral contraceptive hormone levels, their effect on contraceptive efficacy remains uncertain.

Women using medications that increase estrogen elimination may require birth control pills with higher estrogen concentrations or alternative contraception methods.

Plan B

Drugs or herbal products that enhance liver enzyme activity, responsible for drug breakdown, might reduce levonorgestrel blood levels, thereby affecting the morning-after pill’s effectiveness.

Safety during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Birth Control Pills vs. Plan B

Oral Contraceptives

Birth control pills have been associated with decreased milk production, infant weight gain, and changes in milk composition during lactation. The use of progestin-only products is recommended during this period. Experts advise delaying combined estrogen-progestin contraceptive intake until at least six weeks postpartum.

Plan B

• Plan B should not be used during pregnancy as it will not be effective.
• Levonorgestrel might enter human milk and should be used cautiously while nursing.

Conclusion

Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and Plan B (levonorgestrel) are two distinct methods used to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills are taken regularly for continuous contraception, while Plan B serves as a backup option when unprotected sex occurs or when regular contraception fails.