10 Best Contraceptive Pills in India Recommended By Gynecologists

Choosing the right contraceptive pill can feel overwhelming, as there is a variety of options available. Whether you are looking for emergency protection to prevent pregnancy or a non-hormonal alternative, there are several options that can fit your needs. This blog will guide you on the best contraceptive pills in India that are effective and trusted, helping you make the right decision. 

10 Best Contraceptive Pills in India Recommended By Experts

Here are the top birth control pills in India: 

1. Unwanted-21 Days Tablets

• Company: Mankind Pharma Pvt Ltd

• Composition: Ethinylestradiol 0.03mg and Levonorgestrel 0.15mg

• Type: Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs)

• Description: The best emergency contraceptive pills in India contain two female sex hormones called estrogen and progestin, helping prevent pregnancy in several ways. It prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs and also thickens the fluid in the cervix. This makes it challenging for the sperm to enter the uterus.

• Usage: 21 days on and then 7 days off

• Considerations: Needs consistent daily use

2. i-Pill Tablets

• Company: Piramal Enterprises Ltd

• Composition: Levonorgestrel 1.5mg

• Type: Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs)

• Description: This contraceptive tablet prevents unwanted pregnancy in case of unprotected sexual intercourse. It contains a synthetic hormone called Levonorgestrel, which acts similarly to the natural hormone called progesterone, which prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg or sperm to fertilize an egg.

• Usage: Should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

• Considerations: Not recommended for regular use, as it might cause menstrual irregularities or nausea.

3. Suvida Oral Contraceptive Pills

• Company: Eskag Pharma Pvt Ltd

• Composition: Levonorgestrel 0.15 mg & Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg

• Type: Combined hormonal contraceptive pills

• Description: This contraceptive pill contains Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl estradiol that work together to stop ovulation (preventing ovaries from releasing an egg), which avoids pregnancy.

• Usage: Take 1 white pill every day for 21 days, and then 1 brown iron pill for 7 days.

• Considerations: Not intended for patients with high blood pressure and heart disease, and who smoke.

4. WELESTRA- D Tablets

• Company: Adoreshea Bioceutics

• Composition: Desogestrel 0.15mg and Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg

• Type: Combined hormonal contraceptive pills

• Description: This contraceptive pill combines two drugs- Desogestrel and Ethinylestradiol that prevent the fusion of a fertilized egg and sperm, stopping ovulation and pregnancy. Also, it helps treat dysmenorrhea, also called "painful periods".

• Usage: Take 1 tablet daily for 21 days, and then take a gap of 7 days.

• Considerations: People with obesity, diabetes, kidney or liver issues, heart disease, high blood pressure, abnormal uterine bleeding, and breast, uterus, & cervix cancer should be under a gynecologist's supervision. 

5. Saheli Pills

• Company: HLL Lifecare Limited

• Composition: Centchroman (Ormeloxifene)

• Type: Non-steroidal contraceptive pills

• Description: This oral contraceptive tablet does not contain hormones such as progesterone or estrogen, like other contraceptive pills. It works by stopping the process of preparation of the uterine lining, which prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg and thus, pregnancy.

• Usage: Take 1 tablet two times a week for the first 3 months and then 1 time a week thereafter.

• Considerations: Avoid during pregnancy, or take only under a doctor's guidance, as it may lead to severe side effects.

6. Yasmin Tablets

• Company: Bayer Zydus Pharma Pvt Ltd

• Composition: Ethinyl Estradiol (0.03mg) and Drospirenone (3mg)

• Type: Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCs)

• Description: Drospirenone in YASMIN prevents ovulation (release of an egg from the ovaries) and ethinylestradiol prevents the fertilization of an egg, resulting in no pregnancy.

• Usage: Take 1 tablet daily for 21 days, and then placebo pills for 7 days

• Considerations: Avoid it if you have obesity or a history of blood clots, smoke, or are on bed rest for a long period. Stop its use if you experience chest pain, changes in vision, shortness of breath, and severe headaches.

7. Yaz Tablet

• Company: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc.

• Composition: Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg and Drospirenone 3mg

• Type: Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCs)

• Description: Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol together suppress the release of an egg from the ovaries and prevent pregnancy. Also, it helps maintain the menstrual cycle.

• Usage: Take 1 pink tablet daily for 24 days, and then 1 white tablet daily for 4 days.

• Considerations: May raise potassium levels, leading to symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness, and pain. Hence, see a doctor if you have liver or kidney problems.  

8. DROPIN-20 Tablets

• Company: Gynogen

• Composition: Drospirenone 3 mg and Ethinylestradiol 0.03 mg

• Type: Hormonal contraceptive pills

• Description: The drospirenone in DROPIN interrupts the process of ovulation and pregnancy. Ethinylestradiol helps maintain the normal menstrual cycle.

• Usage: Take 1 tablet on the first day of periods and continue using it for the entire month. Once finished, start with the new pack.

• Considerations: Take it under a doctor's supervision if you have experienced blood clots in your eyes, lungs, and legs. Avoid this pill if you have diabetes, a heart attack, high blood pressure, a stroke, or kidney or liver issues. 

9. Duolotn L Tablets

• Company: Zydus Cadila

• Composition: Ethinyl Estradiol (0.05mg) + Levonorgestrel (0.25mg)

• Type: Hormonal contraceptive pills

• Description: The combination of both hormones (Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel) helps prevent pregnancy in several ways. They make the cervix thicker, which causes challenges for the sperm to enter the uterus.

• Usage: Take 1 pill on the first day of your menstrual cycle and continue it for the entire month. Once finished, start with the new pack.

• Considerations: Consult the healthcare professionals to ensure suitability, particularly if you have a history of hormonal disorders, liver disease, or blood clots.

10. DRONIS 20 Tablets

• Company: Sun Pharma Laboratories Ltd.

• Composition: Ethinyl Estradiol (0.03mg) and Drospirenone (3mg)

• Type: Hormonal contraceptive pills

• Description: The hormones (Ethinyl Estradiol and Drospirenone) together change the uterine lining, which aids in preventing ovulation. It also builds an unfavourable environment for an egg to implant and develop in the uterus.

• Usage: Take 1 pill on the first day of the menstrual cycle and continue it for the whole month.

• Considerations: Be aware of its side effects, including stomach pain, breast pain, headache, irregular uterine bleeding, weight gain, and nausea. These side effects gradually resolve with time. 

Types of Birth Control Methods

Birth control methods are of the following six types:

1. Hormonal methods: These include birth control pills, shots, skin patches, vaginal rings, and implants.

2. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): When inserted into the uterus, IUDs help prevent pregnancy and are of two types - copper IUD and hormonal IUD.

3. Barrier Methods: Condoms, diaphragms, and sponges are the most common barrier methods for the prevention of pregnancy as well as protection from STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).

4. Natural Methods: Involves skipping sex or using a barrier method during the 'fertile days of the woman. The common types of natural family planning include the Calendar Rhythm Method, Measuring Basal Body Temperature, Mucus Inspection Method, Symptothermal Method, Withdrawal Method, and more.

5. Permanent Birth Control: Also known as Sterilization, this method is apt for couples who do not want any children. By undergoing a Vasectomy, a man, and a Tubal Ligation, a woman can adopt this permanent method of contraception.

6. Emergency Contraception: This method is a backup method if a condom breaks or the couple has forgotten to use a birth control method.

Effectiveness of Contraception Methods

The effectiveness of birth control methods depends on the stage of adoption of these methods. The common stages include:

• Prior to Intercourse: Hormonal methods and IUDs are effective, barrier methods are moderately effective, and natural methods are less effective before intercourse. These methods are only for couples who wish to have children in the future.

• Post Intercourse: Emergency contraception pills help prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.

• Permanent Solutions: For those who already have children or are not planning to have them in the future, can adopt permanent birth control methods.

• Post-Delivering a Baby: The best birth control methods for a woman who has just delivered a baby include IUDs, condoms, and progestin-only contraceptives (POP). These do not affect the quantity or quality of breast milk.

• Period between Two Children: After the birth of one child and before planning the second, a couple can adopt natural methods like withdrawal or fertility awareness in addition to barrier methods.

• After an Abortion: Hormonal methods like birth control pills, contraceptive patches, or vaginal rings are only for women who have recently aborted but wish to have a child in the future.

• At the Time of Menopause: Low-dose contraceptives are suitable for women approaching menopause. These pills help to deal with menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Note: It is said that when used correctly, contraceptive pills are around 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Precautions To Take While Taking Contraceptive Pills

Follow these precautions:

• Avoid smoking, particularly if you are above 35 years of age.

• Inform the healthcare professionals about other current medications.

• Watch for any unwanted symptoms and report them to a doctor.

• Maintain regular health check-ups by consulting the healthcare provider.

• Use an additional contraceptive method if you forget to take a pill.

Advantages Of Contraceptive Pills

Beyond preventing pregnancy, contraceptive pills also offer the following benefits:

• Regulate menstrual cycles

• Relieve menstrual cramps

• Reduce heavy bleeding

• Lower ovarian cyst risks

• Improve acne

• Reduce the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers.

• Relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Potential Side Effects of Birth Control Pills

Though contraceptive pills are usually safe, they can also lead to some side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Headaches

• Mood changes, like mood swings and anxiety 

• Breast tenderness

• Irregular bleeding

• Weight changes

• Low libido (sexual desire)

Less Common but Severe Side Effects:

• Blood clots

• Heart attack

• Stroke

• High risk of cervical cancers

• Liver problems (in rare cases)

• Blurred vision or other eye issues

Note: Most side effects are mild and subside after some months of use. However, in case you experience any severe effects, seek medical attention immediately.

The Relation Between the Age of a Person and the Choice of Birth Control Methods

Birth control methods are equally effective for people of all ages. However, medical practitioners do not recommend some methods for sexually active teenagers or women over 35 who smoke. For example, according to a study, it is advisable for women above 35 who smoke to stop using birth control pills (except for the Progestin-only Pill) and instead adopt an IUD.

Health Factors That Limit the Choice of Birth Control Methods

It is best to consult healthcare professionals before using any birth control methods, as some may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical problems. The following are the health factors that may limit the use of some contraceptive methods: 

• High Blood Pressure: Raises the risk of heart issues.

• Diabetes: Limits the effectiveness of some hormonal methods.

• Liver Disorders: Might worsen the function of the liver.

• Obesity: Might impact the efficacy of some birth control methods, such as pills and patches.

• History of Blood Clots: Estrogen-based contraceptive pills might increase the risk of clots.

• Migraine with Aura: Estrogen-containing contraceptive pills raise the chances of stroke.

• Breast Cancer (past or current): Hormonal contraceptive pills might not be recommended.

• Smoking (age above 35): Estrogen-based contraceptive methods increase cardiovascular risks.

How to Choose the Right Contraceptive Pills?

Consider these factors while selecting a suitable contraceptive pill for increased effectiveness and safety:

• Prioritize your Health History: If you are living with health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and a history of blood clots, see a doctor before taking any type of contraceptive pills.

• Understand Your Menstrual Cycle: Select the contraceptive pills that align well with your period pattern.

• Check Lifestyle Suitability: Choose a pill that suits your everyday routine and makes it easy for you to stick to the dosing schedule.

• Consider Hormonal vs. Non-Hormonal Contraceptive pills: Choose the suitable pill based on your tolerance and associated side effects.

• Look at Cost and Availability: Choose the brand that is affordable and available in your area.

Summing Up

The best contraceptive pills in India, offer an effective, safe, and accessible option for birth control and other menstrual-related issues. The key is to choose the one that fits your reproductive goals, lifestyle, and health. Always seek medical help to ensure the pill is suitable for you. Also, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor side effects and adjust the particular birth control method if needed.