Since it was approved by the U.S. FDA in 1960, birth control has become a cornerstone for preventing pregnancy.

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for birth control options that offer effective contraception while minimizing potential side effects. 

Low Estrogen birth control pills have emerged as a popular choice for seeking a balance between effective contraception and hormonal impact. 

According to the CDC, low-dose birth control pills are about 93-96% effective when used correctly.

This article explores the workings, effectiveness, advantages, risks, and side effects of low Estrogen oral contraceptives.

How low Estrogen birth control pills work

Low Estrogen birth control pills primarily function by inhibiting two key processes—ovulation and the interaction of sperm with eggs. 

These pills typically contain Estrogen and Progesterone hormones, which signal the body to halt egg release and prepare for pregnancy. 

By doing so, the pills prevent the presence of an available egg for fertilization, rendering pregnancy improbable. 

Additionally, the hormonal content thickens cervical mucus, impeding the passage of sperm to the egg, even in cases of ovulation.

Fact:
Ovulation is a natural physiological process in the menstrual cycle, where a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries and travels to the fallopian tube. Ovulation occurs between day 12 and day 16 of a 28-day cycle.

Types of low Estrogen birth control pills

There are two main types of low birth control pills—those that combine Estrogen and Progestin and those that contain only Progestin. 

The former variety is often called combination and low Estrogen birth control pills and is highly effective when taken correctly. 

Various brands offer low-dose combinations, including:

Alesse (Aviane, Lutera, Orsythia)

It contains Ethinyl Estradiol (a type of synthetic Estrogen) and Levonorgestrel (a synthetic Progestin). 

It is a monophasic pill, meaning each active pill contains the same dose of hormones.

Lo Loestrin Fe

Contains a very low dose of Ethinyl Estradiol and Norethindrone acetate. It is also a monophasic pill.

Ortho Tri-Cyclen (Tri-Sprintec, TriNessa)

A Triphasic pill, meaning the hormone levels change in three phases of the pill pack. 

It contains different doses of Ethinyl Estradiol and Norgestimate.

Microgestin Fe (Junel Fe, Gildess Fe)

These are examples of various generic versions of birth control pills having a combination of Ethinyl Estradiol and Norethindrone Acetate.

Apri

Apri is a combination birth control pill which have a lower Ethinyl Estradiol dose, a synthetic Estrogen, and a Progestin called Desogestrel. 

Levlen 21 and Levora

It is another combination pill with a lower Ethinyl Estradiol and Progestin Levonorgestrel dose. 

It offers contraceptive protection with a focus on Estrogen reduction.

Lo/Ovral

Lo/Ovral is a combination pill containing Ethinyl Estradiol and Norgestrel. 

As a monophasic pill, it delivers a steady hormone dose to prevent pregnancy while potentially minimizing Estrogen-related effects.

Ortho-Novum

Ortho-Novum is a brand of birth control pills available in different formulations, some of which contain lower doses of Estrogen (Ethinyl Estradiol) and various Progestins. 

Yasmin

Yasmin is a birth control pill containing Ethinyl Estradiol with Drospirenone, a newer type of Progestin.

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You can easily get medications like Yasmin 3mg from WowRx.

Hormone levels in low-dose birth control pills

The hormone content in birth control pills, particularly in low-dose formulations, is crucial in their effectiveness and potential side effects. 

Understanding the varying hormone levels is essential for making an informed decision about contraception.

Original formulations of birth control pills contained up to 150 micrograms of Estrogen.

However low doses of Estrogen are:

  • The most used combination birth control pills now contain between 30-35 micrograms of Estrogen
  • Modern low-dose and ultra-low-dose combination pills contain 20 micrograms or less of Estrogen

Benefits of low Estrogen birth control pills

Low Estrogen birth control pills have several benefits:

  • Lighter, predictable periods: With low estrogen pills, bleeding occurs only during the inactive pill days, leading to more delicate and more predictable periods
  • Reduced PMS symptoms: Users may experience fewer premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, including cramping and mood swings
  • Lower risk of certain cancers: Low estrogen pills may decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers
  • Regulated menstrual cycle: Minipills can help regulate periods in individuals with irregular cycles
  • Bone health protection: Very-low-dose birth control pills may contribute to bone health

Who should not use the low Estrogen birth control pills?

woman smoking
Women Smoking Ciggarete

While very low-dose birth control pills can offer benefits during this phase, there are some women should be aware of before considering this option.

  • Women with a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or other clotting disorders should avoid very-low-dose birth control pills
Warning:
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition involving blood clots forming in deep veins, usually in the legs. These clots can block blood flow and potentially lead to life-threatening complications, like Pulmonary Embolism.
  • Women with a history of breast cancer or any indication of increased breast cancer risk should refrain from using Estrogen-containing contraceptives
  • Perimenopausal women with a history of heart disease, including conditions like heart attacks or certain heart rhythm disorders, should avoid Estrogen-containing birth control pills
  • Smoking is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular problems, and perimenopausal women who smoke should avoid using Estrogen-containing birth control pills

Side-effects of low Estrogen birth control pills

Nausea might be the side effect of the medication
Nausea

Low Estrogen birth control pills have side-effects such as:

Hormonal side effects

Estrogen birth control pills can have hormonal effects like:

  • Nausea, vomiting, and headaches are common initial side effects, especially during the adjustment phase
  • Hormonal fluctuations can lead to breast tenderness, weight changes, and mood swings

Serious side effects

Promptly contact a healthcare provider if you get the following side effects:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Abdominal pain
  • shortness of breath
  • vision problems
  • severe headaches
  • leg swelling 

Other effects

Additional effects of low Estrogen birth control pills are:

  • Estrogen-containing pills may lead to bloating and tender breasts
  • Some individuals might experience changes in libido or anxiety

Conclusion

Low Estrogen birth control pills have emerged as a promising solution for effective contraception with reduced hormonal impact. 

These pills offer a reliable method to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering sperm-egg interaction. 

Their effectiveness, around 93-96% when used correctly, underscores their significance.

The benefits of low Estrogen pills encompass lighter periods, eased PMS symptoms, decreased cancer risks, and protection against bone loss. 

However, caution is advised for Perimenopausal women, particularly those with clotting disorders, a breast cancer history, heart conditions, or smoking habits.

Recognizing potential side effects like nausea, mood swings, and Estrogen-related impact is essential. 

Ultimately, low Estrogen birth control pills contribute to a well-rounded and effective approach to contraception.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three types of birth control pills?

There are three main types of birth control pills—combination pills (Estrogen and Progestin), Progestin-only pills, and extended cycle pills (fewer periods). Combination pills prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, Progestin-only pills thicken cervical mucus, and extended cycle pills involve longer active pill use for fewer periods.

Does low Estrogen birth control causes weight gain?

Weight gain as a direct result of low Estrogen birth control pills is not consistently supported by scientific evidence. While some individuals may experience minor weight fluctuations due to hormonal changes, it’s important to note that significant weight gain is uncommon. It is often influenced by various factors, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, and metabolic differences.

Is low Estrogen birth control safe?

Low Estrogen birth control pills are generally safe for most individuals. However, those with certain health conditions, like a history of blood clots, breast cancer, heart issues, or smoking habits, might need to avoid estrogen-containing pills.

What is the best Estrogen-free birth control?

Effective estrogen-free options include Progestin-only pills (minipills), IUDs (hormonal or non-hormonal), implants, Depo-Provera (birth control shot), and barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms). The best choice depends on individual preferences and medical history, with guidance from a healthcare provider.

Citations:
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