Low dose oral contraceptives, also known as LDOCs, are a type of birth control pill that contains lower amounts of hormones than traditional oral contraceptives. The spelling of "contraceptives" in this context is pronounced /ˌkɒntrəˈseptɪvz/, with the stress on the second syllable. "Low dose" is pronounced /loʊ doʊs/, with the stress on the first syllable of "low" and the second syllable of "dose". The pronunciation of "oral" is /ˈɔː.rəl/ with the stress on the first syllable. Overall, LDOCs offer a reduced hormone level for those who may have experienced negative side effects from traditional oral contraceptives.
Low Dose Oral Contraceptives (LDOCs) are a type of hormonal birth control method that contains a smaller amount of active hormones compared to traditional oral contraceptives. These medications are typically taken orally on a daily basis to prevent pregnancy.
LDOCs are composed of synthetic versions of the female hormones estrogen and progestin, which work together to prevent ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary) and thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus. By altering the normal hormonal patterns in the body, LDOCs effectively prevent pregnancy when taken correctly.
The term "low dose" refers to the reduced levels of hormones found in these contraceptives. While traditional oral contraceptives typically contain higher levels of hormones, LDOCs are designed to provide effective contraception with fewer side effects. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations or experience undesirable effects with higher hormone dosages.
LDOCs require a prescription from a healthcare provider and are available in various formulations, such as pills that contain only progestin or a combination of estrogen and progestin. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and timing instructions strictly in order to maximize effectiveness.
While LDOCs greatly reduce the risk of unintended pregnancies, it is important to note that they do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, it is recommended to use additional barrier methods such as condoms to reduce the risk of STIs.