The “third generation” pills : danger ?

 

 

 

 

The first generation of birth control pills (developed in the 1960s) used a higher concentration of estrogen-like compounds as the main means of contraception. It was believed at that time that these levels created an unacceptable risk of the formation of blood clots in the legs.

 

Thus, second generation oral contraceptives were introduced. They included progestins at varying concentrations and strengths.

 

In the 1990s the third generations of oral contraceptives were released. They contain the new progestins. These contraceptives have lower doses of progesterone-like compounds with similar protection against pregnancy. As well, they have been shown to have fewer side effects such as weight gain, fluid retention, headaches and unwanted hair growth.

In 1995, a research team in Montreal led by a McGill University professor discovered that these third generation pills may be linked to a higher risk of forming blood clots in the legs, medically known as “deep venous thrombosis” or DVT.  2 cases in 10,000 for 2^nd generation pills  and  4  cases in 10,000 for 3^rd generation pills 

This effect is most marked for women who have a past history of blood clots, a strong family history of DVTs or are overweight. It is important to note the increase in DVTs due to third generation progestin pills was not associated with Norgestimate™. The increased risk was demonstrated with Desogestrel™ and Gestodene™ .

It appears that third generation pills may be better than second generation in terms of heart disease protection. The same authors who published the DVT findings found the new pills did not increase the risk of heart attack compared with non-users. When compared to second generation pills, the new pills reduced the rate of heart attacks by two to three times. As well, small elevations in blood pressure rarely associated with second generation oral contraceptive use have not been demonstrated with the new pills. One study actually found third generation pills to be beneficial in raising the body’s “good” cholesterol (HDL), which has been linked to lower rates of cardiac disease.

Finally, the new birth control pills do not seem to have the negative effect on blood sugars that has been seen with second generation pills.

 

The followings are adivised to avoid thrombosis-

1.      Do not use 3^rd generation for the first time as contraceptive pill instead use the 2rd generation.

2.      Usually during the first 6 month blood clottings appear so follow 1^st year.

3.      Donot use if there is history of blood coagulation.

4.      Donot use if there is family history of blood coagulation.

5.      The first sign of thrombosis is hypertension so check blood pressure.

6.      Over-weight.

7.      Cigarette smoking.