Options for Sexual Health

What is Yasmin^TM?

Yasmin^TM is a low dose birth control pill that was approved for use in Canada in 2005. Yasmin^TM works in the same way as other combined birth control pills and is very effective at preventing pregnancy, when taken as directed.

How does Yasmin^TM work?

Yasmin^TM works like many combined oral contraceptives in preventing pregnancy by:

• stopping ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary) from occurring
• making the mucous of the cervix thick so that it's harder for sperm to get through into the uterus
• changing the lining of the uterus

What is unique about Yasmin^TM?

This pill contains a type of progestin called drospirenone. This progestin may reduce water retention or bloating (which may reduce premenstrual weight gain). It may also help with some types of acne.

How effective is Yasmin^TM?

Yasmin^TM is considered to be 92% (typical use) to 99.7% effective.

What are the side effects?

Similar to other birth control pills, possible side effects of Yasmin include:

• Menstrual changes
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea
• Vaginal discharge
• Mood changes
• Appetite changes

Yasmin^TM could also have serious side effects similar to other combined hormonal contraceptives, which require immediate medical attention:

A - abdominal pain, upper right side

C - chest or arm pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood

H - headaches, severe and not relieved by aspirin or Tylenol^TM

E - eye problems, blurred vision, flashing lights, double vision, blindness

S - swelling, redness, pain in the legs

Who should not take Yasmin^TM?

• Yasmin^TM is not recommended for women who have kidney, liver, or adrenal disease since drospirenone may increase potassium levels in their body.
• It is not recommended for women who take long-term medications that increase the potassium levels in the body.
• If you have other health risk factors, Yasmin^TM may not be for you. Please discuss any health concerns with your health care professional.

When do I start Yasmin^TM and how do I use Yasmin^TM?

Yasmin^TM needs to be taken at the same time every day to be most effective. When prescribed, the start date is either the first day of your next period, the Sunday after you begin your period, or use the Quick Start method.

See "Using Combined Oral Contraceptives" for more details.

For more information about Yasmin^TM and other birth control options check out:

www.optionsforsexualhealth.org

www.managingcontraception.com

www.sexualityandu.ca

Call the SEX SENSE Line at 1-800-SEX-SENSE (739-7367) or 604-731-7803 (in the Lower Mainland) to speak with a trained volunteer or registered nurse.

References:

Hatcher,R.A., Trussell, J., Stewart, F., Nelson, A.L., Cates, W., Guest, F. et al. (2004). Contraceptive Technology, 18^th Ed.. New York: Contraceptive Technology Communications Inc.

Hatcher, R.A., Zieman, M., Cwiak, C., Darney, P.D., Creinin, M., and Stosur, H.R. (2004). A Pocket Guide to Managing Contraception (2004-2005 edition). Tiger, Georgia: Bridging the Gap Foundation.