An Overview of Uses for Amethia
Amethia™ (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription
birth control pill, also known as an
oral contraceptive. It is taken by women to prevent pregnancy. Unlike traditional birth control pills, Amethia is an extended-cycle contraceptive. This means that women taking this birth control pill will have only four menstrual periods per year (one every three months).
Pros and Cons of Extended-Cycle Contraception
Extended-cycle birth control pills like Amethia have unique pros and cons, and they are not right for all women.
Some women find that having a period every month is reassuring (a way of knowing they are not pregnant). For these women, a traditional birth control pill is preferred.
Also, breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods is more likely to occur with extended-cycle contraceptives, compared to traditional birth control pills. Some women may not like the inconvenience and unpredictability of breakthrough bleeding.
However, because extended-cycle birth control pills allow for fewer periods per year, they may be a good option for women who experience bothersome symptoms during their periods, such as heavy bleeding, menstrual cramps,
migraines, moodiness, or other problems.