WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for September, 1999: Re: Ortho-tricyclen -- Question for Doctors

Re: Ortho-tricyclen -- Question for Doctors

From: William D. McIntosh, MD (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Wed, 29 Sep 1999 11:43:09 -0500 (CDT)

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In reply to: Erin: "Ortho-tricyclen -- Question for Doctors"

At Wed, 29 Sep 1999, Erin wrote: >
>Does this drug prevent ovulation as part of its birth control effects,
>or does it prevent implantation of a fertilized egg? If it is designed
>to prevent ovulation, will a fertilized egg be able to implant into the
>uterine wall should ovulation and fertilization occur? I'm asking these
>questions because I'm taking this drug and as I believe that life begins
>at conception, I would be horrified by the idea that I was taking a drug
>that would prevent a fertilized egg from implanting into the wall of my
>uterus.
>
>Thanks in advance

The primary effect of any combination oral contraceptive tablet is to prevent ovulation. This is the overwhelming effect of the Pill that prevents pregnancy. There are secondary effects of the Pill that also prevent pregnancy in a small number of cases. One of those is alterations in the lining of the uterus that make it unsuitable for implantation. This is rare, as ovulation is extremely rare, and successful fertilization is even more rare, as the Pill also interferes with normal sperm function.

-- William D. McIntosh, MD, FACOG Clarksville, TN

This is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace consultation and examination by your physician or other health care provider.

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