Gedarel 20/150
Contraceptive Pill
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Gedarel 20/150
Contraceptive Pill
Medication features
Gedarel 20/150 is a form of the contraceptive pill. This medication is a hormone-based tablet that works to regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle, which in turn prevents pregnancy. The contraceptive pill can also be used to reduce acne and help to alleviate symptoms of heavy and uncomfortable periods.
When taken correctly, the contraceptive pill is 99% effective. Gedarel 20/150 needs to be taken regularly throughout a woman’s cycle in order to provide effective protection from pregnancy.
- Daily contraceptive pill for female use
- Form of contraception designed to prevent pregnancy
Overview
NOTE: After selecting this product, you will need to complete a short assessment, so we can make sure this medication is suitable for you. Pricing is provided as a reference only. The final decision on issuing this medication remains with our Prescriber / Pharmacist.
It’s important to note that this form of contraception will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This form of contraceptive is designed to prevent pregnancy. When this medication is taken properly is 99% effective. Many women also choose to take them to regulate their period, help with heavy periods, reduce period pain, and also to reduce the appearance of acne.
A lot of contraceptive pills need to be taken for 21 days with a 7 day break. During this break many women experience a breakthrough bleed, which is similar to a normal period. This is nothing to be alarmed about and is a normal part of the contraceptive pill cycle. However there are other forms of contraceptive pill that need to be taken for 28 days without a pause. These types of pills can stop regular menstrual cycles from occurring, which means they could make your periods lighter or stop all together.
You should measure your weight and blood pressure before you start taking any forms of contraceptive pill. These measurements are important because it can affect which pill or method of contraception you should be using.During your consultation, you will also need to answer questions regarding your family health history, such as breast cancer, heart attacks or strokes. You will also need to answer questions regarding your own general health, like if you smoke or experience regular migraines. All of this You will also be asked questions regarding your health history, including migraines, smoking, family history of stroke or heart attack, and breast cancer.
FAQ
What should I do if I miss a dose of the contraceptive pill?
It’s important to keep a regular pattern when taking the contraceptive pill, as you need to take it every day in order for it to be most effective. However, if you do miss a dose or forget to take it one day, then you should take it as soon as you remember. Missing one dose but taking it within one day means you will still be protected from pregnancy. However, if you miss two doses consecutively then you may not be protected from pregnancy and so you should use alternative forms of contraception like condoms.
When should I start taking the pill?
Ideally, you should start taking this contraceptive pill on the first day of your period. Should you begin the medication within the first 5 days of your period than you will be protected from pregnancy immediately. If you begin the pill later in you menstrual cycle, then you should use alternative methods of contraception like condoms to ensure you are protected.
Can I use this when breastfeeding?
Once you’ve given birth, it's recommended to wait at least 6 weeks before taking any form of hormonal contraceptive pill. Speak to a member of the Pharmacy Online team for more options available if you are breastfeeding.
Can oral contraceptives cause breast cancer?
There have been some links between taking contraceptive pills and an increased risk of developing breast cancer. It’s important to consult your doctor or Pharmacy Online team if you have a family history of breast cancer before starting the pill, who will be able to discuss alternative options that are more suitable for you.
Does the pill cause weight gain?
Some forms of hormonal contraception can cause weight gain, however this can differ from person to person. For those using the pill, it’s important to reduce potential weight gain through regular exercise and a healthy diet.
Will the pill affect my fertility?
Once you stop taking the contraceptive pill, your fertility levels should return to normal levels.
Who can use Gedarel 20/150 contraceptive pill?
Almost any woman who wants to prevent pregnancy can use this form of contraception. If a person has a family history of heart attacks or breast cancer, it’s advised that they should consult their doctor before commencing this medication. Most forms of contraceptive pill can also be used to help alleviate symptoms of heavy and uncomfortable periods or to help reduce the signs of acne.
Side Effects
Side effects
When using any form of medication, there are risks of developing unwanted side effects. Most side effects are minimal and will go away over time. However, there are some rare side effects that can be more serious and should be reported to your doctor straight away. It’s important to consider these side effects and potential risks before commencing this form of contraceptive.
Common side effects include:
- Light periods or spotting in the first few months
- Headaches or migraines
- Changes in moods or mood swings
- Weight fluctuations
- Nausea
- Sore breast tissue
- Changes in sex drive
- Bloating
There are more serious side effects that can occur when taking oral contraceptives. Should you notice any of these conditions, you should seek medical attention straight away.
- Changes to the breast such as discolouration around the nipple or lumps
- Swelling in the lower leg that is inflamed and hot to the touch
- Discomfort and bleeding after sex
Other
Info Leaflet
Before taking any medicines, regardless of whether they are over the counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.