Etonogestrel is a compound commonly used in birth control methods. It is found in many different products, such as birth control implants and hormonal intrauterine devices. This hormone helps prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, changing the structure of cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining. Etonogestrel can be used for contraception or to treat certain gynecological health issues. However, its use should be under the supervision of a doctor due to the importance of dosage and administration.
What is Etonogestrel Used For?
Etonogestrel is commonly used in birth control methods for the following purposes:
- Preventing pregnancy
- Managing menstrual irregularities
- Reducing uterine bleeding
- Treating gynecological issues
- Reducing pain
How to Use Etonogestrel?
The instructions for how to use and apply etonogestrel can vary depending on the type of product and its intended use:
Birth Control Implant:
Doctor’s Placement: The Nexplanon implant is inserted under the skin by a healthcare professional.
Monitoring: Your doctor will regularly check that the implant is in place and effective.
Removal: The implant should be removed by a healthcare professional when its effectiveness ends or for any other necessary reason.
Hormonal Intrauterine Devices:
Doctor’s Placement: IUDs containing etonogestrel are inserted into the uterus by a doctor or healthcare professional.
Monitoring: After the IUD is inserted, your doctor will regularly check that it is in place and effective.
Removal: The IUD can be removed by the user or a doctor.
What are the Side Effects of Etonogestrel?
When using birth control methods containing etonogestrel, some women may experience side effects, including:
- Menstrual irregularities
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Acne
- Weight changes
- Dizziness
- Vaginal infections
Does Etonogestrel Interact with Other Medications?
Birth control methods containing etonogestrel may interact with other medications, including:
- Epilepsy medications
- HIV medications
- Antifungal medications
- Antibiotics
- Tuberculosis medications
- St. John’s Wort
When Should Etonogestrel Not Be Used?
Before using etonogestrel, you should consider certain special situations, and these methods may not be used under these circumstances:
Pregnancy: Birth control methods containing etonogestrel should not be used during pregnancy.
Allergy to Etonogestrel or Ingredients: If you have a serious allergy to etonogestrel or other ingredients containing etonogestrel, you may need to avoid using these birth control methods.
Liver Problems: Severe liver problems may limit the use of birth control methods containing etonogestrel.
Tromboembolic Diseases: If you have a history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or other tromboembolic diseases, you may need to avoid using birth control methods containing etonogestrel.
Severe Migraine: Some individuals experiencing severe migraine attacks may not use birth control methods containing etonogestrel.
Some Cancers: Individuals with a history of breast cancer or other hormone-dependent cancers should not use these birth control methods.
Diabetes: The use of birth control methods containing etonogestrel should be carefully evaluated in individuals with severe or poorly controlled diabetes.
Menstrual Disorders: If you have bleeding-related problems or medical conditions affecting bleeding, you should discuss with your doctor before using these birth control methods.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Etonogestrel?
There are some important points to consider when using etonogestrel:
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Before using birth control methods containing etonogestrel, carefully follow your doctor’s or healthcare professional’s recommendations.
Do Not Neglect Regular Check-ups: Your doctor should regularly check the effectiveness of the birth control method containing etonogestrel.
Monitor Side Effects: If you experience any side effects or issues during medication use, contact your doctor.
Drug Interactions: Etonogestrel may interact with other medications.
Do Not Remove by Yourself: Do not attempt to remove the etonogestrel-containing birth control implant by yourself.
Desire for Pregnancy: If you plan to become pregnant after discontinuing the use of birth control methods containing etonogestrel, it may take several weeks or months for your fertility to return.
Sexually Transmitted Infections: Birth control methods containing etonogestrel do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.
