Hormonal imbalance in the female body can lead to symptoms:

• frequent illnesses;
• mood swings;
• insomnia;
• depression;
• headache;
• irritability;
• skin aging;
• lack of sexual desire.

To get rid of these symptoms, you need to choose the right medication. To do this, you need to undergo diagnostics, including:

• visiting a gynecologist;
• detailed and biochemical blood tests;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs, in order to detect tumors;
• a smear for tumor markers in order to detect pathological cells;
• a smear to determine the inflammatory processes of the genital organs and sexually transmitted diseases;
• tests to study the work of the thyroid gland;
• Ultrasound of the liver;
• consultation with a mammologist;
• a blood test to determine the amount of sex hormones.

The purpose of the survey is to identify contraindications to the use of hormone therapy. There are several cases when women over forty should not use hormonal drugs:

• liver disease, high risk of internal bleeding, thrombosis, oncology;
• age over 60 years, as the risk of occurrence is high side effects;
• intolerance to hormonal drugs, poor digestibility of their components;
• menopause occurred more than 10 years ago.

The most common therapy is with pills. They combine the 2 main hormones progesterone and estrogen. With their help
regulates the work of all systems of the female body from the genitals to the heart and blood vessels.

The most popular drugs

To regulate the amount of major female hormones, doctors prescribe one of effective drugs. Examples of their names:

1. Estrofem is an excellent drug for the prevention of cardiovascular pathologies. It is made up of herbal ingredients. It is forbidden to take in the presence of diseases of the liver and kidneys.
2. Livial increases the level of parathyroid hormone. It affects the walls of blood vessels and bone tissue, a lack of a hormone in a woman's body, leads to hypertension and osteoporosis. It must be taken without interruption for 5 years, then you have to take a break for six months, after which it is permissible to repeat the course of therapy. It is forbidden during pregnancy, so it is prescribed to women who have already begun the menopause period.
3. Femoston belongs to universal preparations. Sometimes it is prescribed even to men who have problems with the functioning of the prostate. It is able to strengthen the walls of blood vessels and bone tissue, but at the same time causes digestive disorders. During therapy, a woman needs to be under constant medical supervision.
4. Kliogest is indicated for the prevention of osteoporosis and hypertension. When using it, the risk of hepatic colic, internal bleeding and headaches increases.
5. Klimonorm is useful after removal of the uterus and ovaries, but can be used in other cases. It is not a contraceptive, it is prohibited for stomach ulcers, hepatitis and diabetes.

As you can see from the list, each drug has its own side effects, contraindications and reasons for prescribing. Therefore, the choice should be approached responsibly. The medicine that improved your friend's condition may not be the right treatment for you.

What are phytoestrogens

If taking strong drugs is not needed, a woman is prescribed phytoestrogens. These drugs appeared after studying the properties of certain plants, from which hormones can be isolated in small doses. Phytoestrogens have several benefits:

• smooth the symptoms of menopause;
• help preserve the beauty of the skin: slow down the appearance of wrinkles and reduce the number of age spots;
• stop inflammatory processes, relieve endometriosis;
• relieve pain during menopause;
• increase interest in sex.

One of the most famous drugs of this series is Qi-Klim. It is recommended for use in women over 45 years of age. It cannot be the basis of therapy, as it is not strong enough. It is recommended to drink it as a dietary supplement for the prevention of age-related changes. It is permissible to take this medicine along with contraceptives. Contraindications are malignant tumors.

Contraceptives after 40 years

Not all women go through menopause at 40. If the cycle has retained its regularity, then there is a high probability of an unwanted pregnancy, the first signs of which are often mistaken for menopause. Childbirth in women over 40 years of age is fraught with complications, so they are recommended to protect themselves with three-phase oral contraceptives. This group of drugs, as well as similar drugs, includes such tablets as:

1. Regulon normalizes menstrual cycle, effective in the treatment of cysts, protects against uterine fibroids.
2. Jess has a relatively small list of side effects. It is effective for edema, as it is able to remove water from the body.
3. Silest makes the walls of the uterus softer. Its action is directed directly to the eggs.
4. Marvelon is a multifunctional contraceptive that reduces the rate of hair growth on the body, improves skin condition.
5. Femodene regulates the menstrual cycle, is indicated for women with anemia.

The selection of contraceptives also begins with a visit to the gynecologist. After 40 years, women are at high risk of developing complications. You should not buy for regular use at your own peril and risk the first contraceptive pills you like.

Contraceptives: which pills are better to choose after 35-40 years?

Pregnancy at a conscious age is more often undesirable than at 25 years old, the reasons can be very different, but they begin with health problems. Statistics prove that most pregnancies at the age of 30-40 are artificially interrupted. Abortion can cause more harm to the body, so it is very important to choose the most effective and reliable method of contraception.

In adulthood, the choice of birth control pills must be approached very seriously and carefully. Many drugs may not be suitable, and also have a number of significant contraindications. Today, the pharmaceutical market presents a wide range of different hormonal drugs for all ages and categories that will help protect against unplanned pregnancy. Let's look at the types of tablets that are acceptable for use at the age of 35-40 years.

Combined oral contraceptives

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs)- this category of drugs suspends ovulation, thereby avoiding an unplanned pregnancy. COC operates on the basis of two substances:

• artificial gestagens;
• estrogen.

Together they give 100% maximum effect. If we compare the following group of hormonal drugs mini-drank(see below) and combined oral contraceptives, then the application COOK will be more suitable in adulthood, but in some cases it has contraindications for use. There are 3 types of COCs:

Microdosed- a type of contraception that is perfect for women over 35 years old (before menopause), who have never given birth, with an active sex life. Hormonal pills of this subgroup are also suitable for those who have never resorted to the use of hormonal drugs, as they have a minimal list of side effects and do not affect their well-being:

• Jess - price 1100-2300 rubles;
• Dimia - cost 740-1500 rubles, depending on the number of pieces in the package;
• Logest - cost 770-1600 rubles;
• Mercilon - price 1500-1700 rubles;
• Lindinet - the price of 21 pills per pack is 500-560 rubles;
• Novinet - cost 500-1200 rubles.

Low dose- hormonal contraceptives that are suitable for young, mature, parous, nulliparous women and for those who conduct regular sexual life. Low-dose tablets are most often taken if, for any reason, microdosed drugs have stopped:

• Silhouette - price 1650 rubles;
• Tri-merci - 1000-1200 rubles;
• Lindinet - 21 tablets per pack cost 500-560 rubles;
• Minisiston - cost 450-520 rubles;
• Regulon - cost 470-1650 rubles;
• Rigevidon - price 320-600 rubles.

Highly dosed- more often this species drugs are used to treat and prevent any hormonal diseases, due to the increased dosage of hormones. As a method of contraception, it is perfect for women over 35 years of age, in case of ineffectiveness of drugs with a lower dosage:

• NonOwlon;
• Triquilar - cost 600-670 rubles;
• Ovidon - cost 600 rubles;
• Triziston;
• Tri-regol - pack of 21 pcs. tablets are sold at a price of 300-350 rubles.

COCs can be divided into several subcategories, they differ among themselves in the sequence of actions of hormones:

• Single-phase - substances are mixed with each other in all tablets of the cycle.
• Biphasic - throughout the reception, the amount of estrogen remains unchanged.
• Three-phase - the proportions of estrogen and progestogen undergo a change 3 times during a monthly intake.

Operating principle COOK, works like this:

• There is no systematic ovulation.
• A significant amount of mucus inside the uterus itself, making it impossible for sperm to penetrate inside.
• Significantly increases the density of the endometrium. The chances of an egg being fertilized are reduced to 0.

All indicators, this is a significant barrier to the onset of an unplanned pregnancy, in combination, all three actions completely exclude the occurrence of pregnancy.

Contraindications to the use of combined oral contraceptives

There are also a number of contraindications for the use COOK:

• already occurring pregnancy;
• cardiological diseases;
• increased number of platelets in the blood;
• smoking;
• malignant tumors ();
• breastfeeding period;
• age after 40 years.

Side effects

If a woman nevertheless crosses the line of contraindications and decides to take combined oral contraceptives, then a number of side effects appear as a result:

• drowsiness;
• headache;
• weight loss;
• loss of stability;
• increased growth of unwanted vegetation;
• lack of interest in intimacy.

The above items are minor side effects. More serious consequences of taking COCs in the presence of contraindications can be:

• dermatological rashes ( , etc.);
• significant weight gain;
• pronunciation problems;
• hypotonic and hypertensive attacks;
• frequent aching pain in the chest;
• systematic migraines;
• , hands;
• thrombosis.

Mini pill preparations

• Lactinet - cost 730-800 rubles;
• Microlute - cost about 1500 rubles;
• Charozetta - the price for a package of 28 tablets is 1400-1500, for a package with 84 tablets 3450-4020 rubles;
• Exoluton - price for 28 pieces of table. 2200-3270 rubles;
• Micronor - cost 350-430 rubles.

Almost all modern hormonal preparations include the content of a natural component - an analogue of the female sex hormone estrogen. This hormone does not pose a threat to health, and also does not change the hormonal background. Therefore, in these hormonal contraceptive pills, only artificial progestogen and estrogen take place. In other words, these pills are called single-component hormonal contraceptives.

More often, drugs in this category are prescribed to women after 35 years of age who have already undergone childbirth, because in this case, a woman’s own estrogen is quite enough, and its excess can only be harmful. First of all, the risk of malignant neoplasms increases, because the tissues of the uterus will become several times denser. Also, with an excess of estrogen, the body will begin to produce a natural male hormone - testosterone, in which case the following negative consequences cannot be avoided:

• an increase in vegetation on the entire surface of the body;
• increased greasiness of hair;
• purulent eruptions.

In order to avoid these undesirable consequences, the action of the progestogen is quite enough. The principle of its action is almost the same as in combined oral contraceptives:

• ovulation is absent;
• difficulty in the introduction of spermatozoa into the uterus;
• a small percentage of fixation of the egg in the uterus.

Instead of a normalized menstrual cycle, only spotting occurs. Contraindications and side effects are the same as for COCs.

Contraceptive pills after 40 years are more necessary than at a young age. During this period, pregnancy can be not only unplanned, but also dangerous for both the mother and the child. The risk of developing various pathologies in a child is much higher, and childbirth in a woman at the age of 40 is much more difficult than in young mothers. It is worth noting that an abortion can adversely affect the health of a woman at the age of 40, so doctors strongly do not recommend it.

At this age, doctors prescribe hormonal contraceptives not only to prevent an unplanned pregnancy, these drugs help to avoid various diseases of the reproductive system, menstrual pain, cancer and many other problems.

Also, hormonal birth control pills after 40 years are prescribed for menopause or pre-menopause. Usually, gynecologists recommend birth control pills as a method of protecting sexual intercourse, but in the presence of diseases or significant contraindications, they select an alternative method of contraception.

Emergency contraception in adulthood

This method is used to prevent unplanned pregnancy, which is carried out immediately after unprotected intercourse. Currently, pharmacological companies also represent a wide range of choice of drugs in this industry, these can be hormonal drugs, various spirals, and non-hormonal drugs.

The drug action of hormonal emergency contraception is to suppress the production of an egg, or to prevent a sperm from colliding with an egg and entering the uterus. After a woman takes such drugs, the cervical secretion is thickened, as a result of which the sperm does not penetrate the uterine walls. Ovulation does not occur, and because of this, the egg does not come out, and the spermatozoa die.

In the case of penetration of spermatozoa into the uterine walls and fertilization of the egg, then under the influence of the drug, hypotrophy of the endometrial layer occurs, so there is no further course of pregnancy, the embryo comes out together with the course of the menstrual cycle.

Emergency hormonal contraception shows high rates of effectiveness, approximately 95-99%. Gynecologists strongly discourage the use of emergency contraception for their patients in adulthood, especially after 40 years. This is associated with an increased risk of internal and external bleeding, as well as the development of other serious side effects.

Smoking and taking contraceptive hormonal drugs

Before prescribing hormonal drugs, the gynecologist will not only conduct a visual examination and collect all the necessary tests, but will also inquire about the presence of bad habit- smoking. The fact is that the hormone estrogen has the ability to slightly increase blood clotting.

Smoking affects the circulatory system much more intensively than hormones. Accordingly, the simultaneous use of hormonal drugs and smoking in most cases lead to the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels. Subsequently, this causes a heart attack, and other serious diseases.

Nicotine, which is found in large quantities in cigarettes, increases the heart rate and greatly increases blood pressure, in combination with the hormone estrogen, this will greatly increase the load on the heart muscle, which in turn leads to the manifestation of coronary disease.

There are many other adverse outcomes joint reception hormonal drugs and smoking. For example, the human papillomavirus, this disease can be asymptomatic throughout life, but if you “wake it up” with nicotine and hormones, this virus can even lead to uterine cancer.

How to choose good birth control pills in adulthood?

You should not approach the solution of this issue on your own or according to the reviews of friends. In order to choose the birth control pills that suit you, you need to visit a gynecologist who will conduct the necessary examination and prescribe the right drug for you.

What does a gynecologist pay attention to when choosing hormonal pills?

First of all, the gynecologist collects an anamnesis, paying special attention to the genetic history, the presence of diseases that occur in a chronic form, as well as previous diseases. These factors can serve as a significant contraindication to taking hormonal oral contraceptives. Next, the doctor conducts a visual examination of the woman, examining the skin, mammary glands, and also measures blood pressure and weight.

After the visual inspection, the specialist will prescribe a lot of tests for hormonal levels, the amount of sugar in the blood, ultrasound of the mammary glands and small pelvis.

A gynecological examination will also be performed, during which a smear will be taken. Perhaps the gynecologist will send you for a consultation with an ophthalmologist, since due to the long-term use of hormonal drugs, the risk of various diseases associated with vision increases.

Before deciding which hormonal pills are best, the doctor individually takes into account the biological type, that is: examines the hairline on the pubic bone, asks the patient about the symptoms that accompany menstruation, a violation of the cycle or its complete absence, diseases that occur in chronic shape, as well as the appearance of the mammary glands.

Benefits of taking birth control for women aged 35-40

A greater number of women are distrustful and wary of contraceptives, first of all, this can be associated with fear of a significant weight gain. However, scientists have long proven that the opinion about weight gain is another tale and myth.

If the drug is selected by an experienced doctor on an individual basis, then there can be no talk of any physiological changes in the body. There are a number of benefits that hormonal contraceptive pills have at the age of 30-40:

• Full protection against the onset of an unplanned pregnancy;
• Reducing the possibility of occurrence of diseases in the gynecological part, such as: various tumors, fibroids, cysts, erosion, etc.;
• Completely exclude the development of ectopic pregnancy;
• Strengthen bone tissue, making fractures much less common, which is very important for women over 40;
• The appearance of a favorable mood for frequent intimacy;
• Improving daily mood;
• Normalization of the hormonal background of the body, due to which the skin becomes smooth, and the nail plates are significantly strengthened;
• delayed menopause;
• Protection against inflammation of the genital organs;
• The cycle of menstruation is established and pain is eliminated during its course.

Prices for hormonal contraceptive pills range from the lowest to the most expensive drugs, there are plenty to choose from. The cheapest tablets reach a cost of 200 rubles (Exinor-F), and the most expensive ones cost about 4000 rubles (Charosetta, Exluton).

Many cheap drugs are analogues of expensive drugs, they have the same principle of action and the price in this case does not affect the effectiveness of the drug, the only difference is in the active substance. But still, it should be remembered that neither the name nor the beautiful packaging speaks of the effectiveness of this drug, you can only build on the composition and quality of the drug that the doctor will recommend to you.

Interesting

Higher education(Cardiology). Cardiologist, therapist, functional diagnostics doctor. I am well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system. Graduated from the academy (full-time), has a lot of work experience behind her.

Specialty: Cardiologist, Therapist, Doctor of Functional Diagnostics.

In women, unlike men, the body changes much more often and more intensively during life, especially with regard to hormonal changes. Besides, Negative influence women's health is affected by stress, malnutrition, and difficult working conditions. This leads to vitamin deficiency, accompanied by weakness and lethargy, deterioration of the hair, nail plates, skin. To prevent the appearance of the above symptoms, women after 40 should normalize their diet and take vitamins.

In order not to make a mistake with the choice when buying multivitamins, you need to consider the following nuances:

1. Good drugs have a GMP mark - an international quality standard, which means that the drug has passed medical tests and is highly effective.
2. A quality product cannot be cheap.
3. The composition should contain not only vitamins, but also the most important mineral elements for the female body (iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium, calcium).

Substances important for the female body

Low immunity, problems with appearance, emotional instability - all these are signs of hypovitaminosis. For women over 40, the following vitamins are especially important.

1. Retinol (A). A powerful antioxidant that slows down skin aging and maintains visual acuity.
2. Calciferol (D). It is necessary for the construction of bone tissue, the normal functioning of the brain. Blocks the growth of malignant cells.
3. Tocopherol (E). It is called the "women's vitamin". Maintains the normal condition of the skin, hair structure. With a lack of a substance, problems with appearance appear.
4. Ascorbic acid (C). Strong immunostimulant. Prevents infectious diseases.
5. Phylloquinone (K). Ensures the health of blood vessels, normalizes the functioning of the kidneys.
6. Cyanocobalamin (B 12). It normalizes the emotional state, eliminates insomnia.

If young girls need to eat well to get the above vitamins, then women who have reached the age of 40 need much more useful substances than they can take from food. Therefore, the intake of vitamin complexes becomes mandatory.

Vitamin Deficiency Symptoms

Women entering the menopausal stage should be regularly examined by a gynecologist, endocrinologist and other medical specialists. Nutrition at this age should be of high quality and complete: no exotic and rigid diets are allowed. In no case should you bring the situation to the development of hypovitaminosis.

Deficiency is indicated by the following symptoms:

• weakening of the immune system;
• pain in the abdomen, indigestion;
• hearing and vision problems;
• baldness;
• inflammation of the gums, dental disease;
• frequent colds;
• lethargy, rapid fatigue, low performance, apathetic mood;
• drowsiness during the daytime, insomnia at night;
• drying and peeling of the skin, the appearance of inflammatory skin rashes;
• development of dermatological infectious pathologies;
• the occurrence of stomatitis;
• fungal infection of the genital tract;
• memory impairment, problems with concentration.

Daily intake of vitamins

For the body, not only a vitamin deficiency is dangerous, but also an excess. It is important that useful substances enter the body daily in the optimal amount.

For mature women daily rate substances are as follows:

• retinol (A) - up to 0.8 mg;
• ascorbic acid (C) - up to 100 mg;
• tocopherol (E) - 15 mg;
• thiamine (B 1) - 1.7 mg;
• riboflavin (B 2) - 2 mg;
• niacin (B 3) - 20 mg;
• pantothenic acid (B 5) - 5 mg;
• pyridoxine (B 6) - 2 mg;
• folic acid (B 9) - 1 mg;
• cyanocobalamin (B 12) - 0.003 mg;
• biotin (H) - 0.3 mg;
• phylloquinone (K) - 0.1 mg.

In high-quality women's vitamin complexes, useful compounds are in the optimal daily dose.

Foods rich in vitamins

It is better to get nutrients from food, and use vitamin preparations if necessary. And you can provide the body with vitamins with the help of products only by making the diet of high quality and varied.

The daily menu should contain foods rich in useful substances:

• retinol - liver, carrots, greens, eggs, dairy products;
• ascorbic acid - citrus, cabbage, pepper, currant;
• calciferol - fish, liver, eggs, beef;
• tocopherol - vegetable oils, milk products;
• thiamine - legumes, dairy products, yeast;
• riboflavin - fish, cereals, eggs;
• biotin - mushrooms, liver, nuts, dairy products, eggs;
• phylloquinone - greens, seaweed.

The best vitamin preparations

Below are the names and descriptions of the best complex preparations and dietary supplements for women over 40 years old.

1. . A line of drugs for patients is produced different ages and different levels of activity. The advantage of the complex is the optimal combination of vitamins and minerals for compatibility. The components are divided into three tablets: morning - toning the body, strengthening the heart muscle and circulatory system, day - providing the body with antioxidants, helping to overcome negative external factors, evening - supporting the health of bone tissues, organs of vision, the hormonal system. The price is about 350 rubles.
2. Complivit for women 45 plus. Vitamin complex, characterized by a large component composition. The tablets contain retinol, group B compounds, ascorbic acid, vitamin E, selenium, magnesium and many other substances important for the female body. The components of the drug stimulate metabolism, get rid of extra pounds, are necessary to strengthen the immune system and rejuvenate the body. A package with 30 tablets will cost about 300 rubles.
3. . The best drug for women, it optimally selected all the substances necessary for the body after 40 years. The composition contains not only vitamins and minerals, but also herbal supplements. Active components increase the efficiency of the brain, strengthen the immune system, reduce the effects of stress and the manifestations of menopause. The price for a package with 30 tablets is about 1200 rubles, for a package with 60 tablets - 1800 rubles.
4. Ledy's Formula Woman 40 Plus. A high-quality complex of vitamins from the English manufacturer PharmaMed. The composition contains retinol, tocopherol, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, inositol, trace elements and herbal supplements. The components of the drug are important for women's health, improve the condition of the skin and hairline, normalize weight, and help to endure menopausal changes in the body more easily. Price - 850 rubles.
5. Omnium from Solgar. It is impossible not to include effective American pills in the rating of vitamins. This drug is of high quality, it contains vitamins, mineral elements, soybean extract, antioxidants, flavonoids, lipoic acid - the most necessary substances for women. The drug is recommended to be taken in order not to age prematurely, to prevent senile diseases, to strengthen the immune system. Solgar products are rarely sold in pharmacies, but you can buy these vitamins in online stores. Price - up to 1800 rubles.
6. Vitolize. Top best vitamins These tonic and tonic tablets from the American company Forever are included. The drug is recommended for prolonging youth, maintaining the beauty of the skin, reducing menopausal symptoms. The composition contains vitamin D, ascorbic acid, tocopherol, group B compounds, minerals, herbal and fruit extracts. Active ingredients stabilize the hormonal and nervous state. Price - 1900 rubles.
7. from Evalar. The Russian manufacturer offers good and inexpensive pills for patients entering the menopausal stage. The basis of dietary supplements is extracts of cimicifuga and motherwort, which alleviate menopausal symptoms. Also in the composition are retinol, tocopherol, ascorbic acid, group B, L-carnitine, rutin, selenium. The drug is not hormonal, so you can drink it without fear. Active components normalize the mental and emotional state, prevent vegetative-vascular pathologies in menopause. A package with 60 tablets will cost 400 rubles.

Vitamins to improve appearance after 40 years

A woman who has reached the age of 40 needs to provide the body with vitamins that normalize the condition of the skin, the structure of the hairline, and nail plates. These vitamins include:

• A - has a protective effect on the epithelium, prevents the skin from drying out;
• C - stimulates the production of collagen;
• D - necessary for the full absorption of minerals;
• B 2 - regulates cellular respiration;
• B 3 - supplies hair and skin structures with oxygen;
• B 7 - stimulates hair growth, restoration of skin tissues;
• F - supports the normal functioning of the skin glands.

Vitamins to strengthen immunity

The body of mature women is weakened in the spring, experiencing vitamin deficiency. Most of the nutrients the body spends in the winter. Therefore, in the spring months, women should definitely drink complexes that include retinol, ascorbic acid, vitamin D, group B. These compounds normalize the structure of the skin, strengthen bone tissue, hair and nails, stimulate metabolism, provide cells with oxygen, restore mental state, improve immunity, protect against colds.

The choice of a method of contraception in women over the age of 45, i.e., in the so-called "transitional" period, is often a very difficult task due to the peculiarities of this age period, associated with the inevitable processes of gradual extinction of ovarian function, the presence of a number of gynecological and extragenital diseases, the appearance of vegetovascular and other early symptoms of menopause. Despite the fact that fertility decreases in this age period, cases of childbearing in women over 45 years of age are not so rare. According to statistics, countries Western Europe up to 30% of women aged 45-54 have a regular menstrual cycle and are fertile. At the same time, against the background of a regular rhythm of menstruation, the frequency of ovulatory cycles reaches 70-95%, and with oligomenorrhea - up to 34%. By this age, many women are already deciding the number of children in the family; situations such as remarriage, accidents with children and the need for childbirth are rare. In most cases, the onset of pregnancy makes you think about abortion.

Abortions in premenopausal women are much more often accompanied by various complications; the frequency of the latter is two to three times higher than in women of reproductive age. Often after an abortion, inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, complications associated with the presence of uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and exacerbation of extragenital pathology occur. It has been proven that an abortion performed in the "transitional" period often provokes a severe course of the climacteric syndrome and is a background for the development of hyperplastic processes in the target organs - the uterus and mammary glands.

When choosing a method of contraception in this age period, in addition to the need for reliable prevention of abortion, the question arises of avoiding influence on metabolic processes that have undergone (or are undergoing) age-related changes against the background of the high sensitivity of the female body to exogenous influences. Prevention and treatment of the initial symptoms of menopausal syndrome and, if possible, slowing down the aging process are among the main tasks of contraception at this age.

Of course, hormonal contraceptives (HC) are the most promising in this regard, but before the advent of modern hormonal agents, including microdosed drugs and releasing systems, the use of HC was associated with a number of problems.

Hormonal contraception over the 40-year period of its development has established itself not only as one of the most effective ways prevention of pregnancy, but also as a new, promising area of ​​medicine. Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used throughout the world. IN last years more and more new combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are being developed. At the end of the 80s. OCs with higher progestogen selectivity for progesterone receptors have been synthesized - these are desogestrel, norgestemate and gestodene.

Recent studies have shown that modern microdosed drugs of the latest generation have no or minimal metabolic effect on the female body. In view of this, they can be used by non-smoking women after 40 years of age in the absence of risk factors associated with hypercoagulability (WHO, 1996). Such risk factors when using any type of hormonal contraception include, first of all, cardiovascular diseases, liver disease, heavy smoking in combination with the use of COCs.

It should be remembered that hormonal contraceptives are contraindicated in the presence of a history of thromboembolism, cardiovascular pathology, severe diabetes mellitus, malignant neoplasms of the reproductive system.

In the absence of these contraindications, microdosed preparations can be used quite widely. They are not only highly reliable, but also have a protective effect, including the symptoms of menopausal syndrome, which are quickly stopped.

The positive effect of estrogens on brain function and emotional state in perimenopausal women is known. In addition, numerous studies have confirmed the positive effects of oral contraceptives on cognitive processes, improving memory and mood. It was found that the estrogen component of OK reduces the concentration of monoamine oxidase (MAO), which leads to an increase in serotonin levels, as well as brain excitability, and thereby improves mood.

We have studied the efficacy and possibility of using the microdose combined oral contraceptive (COC) novinet in premenopausal women.

Microdosed COC containing 20 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 0.150 mg of desogestrel. The composition of the drug includes a third-generation progestogen, which is a derivative of levonorgestrel, - desogestrel, which has high selectivity for progesterone receptors and high progestogenic activity.

A distinctive feature of the drug is the minimum content of the estrogen component, which significantly reduces the risk of estrogen-dependent side effects. Under the influence of the drug, there is mainly a prevention of the release of FSH and LH, which prevents the process of ovulation. The effect is enhanced by increasing the viscosity of cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterine cavity.

We observed 35 somatically healthy women aged 44 to 47 years (mean age 45.4+0.4 years) who had no contraindications to hormonal contraception. In addition to the general clinical study, we measured blood pressure(BP) and body weight, blood test for hemostasis and lipid spectrum, extended colposcopy, cytological examination smears from the surface of the cervix and cervical canal, ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs.

Dynamic monitoring of patients was carried out every three, six and 12 months from the start of contraception. Menstrual cycle disorders were not detected, only in six (17.1%) patients the cycle duration was reduced to 21 days, which, apparently, is associated with hormonal changes in the body.

During the treatment, not a single case of pregnancy was registered, i.e., the contraceptive efficacy of the drug was 100%. Novinet had a regulating effect on the menstrual cycle, which was expressed in the establishment of a cycle duration of 25-27 days in all patients. The average duration of the menstrual cycle was 27.5 + 0.3 days. Menstrual-like reactions lasted 3.4+0.3 days, scanty menstrual-like discharge was observed in three (8.6%) women. Eight women had adverse reactions: in the form of intermenstrual bleeding (two cases), breast engorgement (six cases).

All adverse reactions disappeared within the first two to three months of COC use and did not require therapeutic measures.

Four women who experienced physical ailment (weakness), emotional discomfort (bad mood) prior to the appointment of contraception recorded a significant improvement in the second month from the start of contraception. It should be noted that in four patients with premenstrual syndrome, after three months of using Novinet, a positive effect was also observed.

While taking the drug, there were no significant changes in body weight.

The initial indicators of the blood lipid spectrum in patients before the use of Novinet were normal. After 12 months, there was a trend towards an increase in HDL levels, which have anti-atherogenic potential, and a decrease in LDL, which have atherogenic potential.

The conducted studies also testified to the absence of negative dynamics of changes in the blood coagulation system.

Studies of the state of the cervix when using the complex most informative methods studies did not reveal any pathological changes.

Thus, the results of the study indicate that the modern microdose COC novinet is a highly effective contraceptive, well tolerated by women of premenopausal age, does not have a significant effect on blood pressure, body weight, blood lipid spectrum and hemostasis, and also allows to achieve a therapeutic effect in patients with premenstrual syndrome and women experiencing emotional discomfort due to age-related (hormonal) changes in the body.

Based on the materials of the magazine "The Attending Doctor"

Unwanted conception in women after 40 will cause a lot of problems. Abortion at this age can lead to various complications, and pregnancy and childbirth to a high risk of pathologies in the child. In our article, we will consider which contraceptives after 40 years are the safest and most effective.

The main types of contraception for women after 40 years:

1. condoms - male and female,
2. hormonal pills,
3. intrauterine device,
4. spermicides.

At this age, contraceptive pills with a low content of hormones and a complete absence of estrogen are suitable.

Benefits of hormonal contraceptives after 40 years

Many women treat hormonal drugs with apprehension and contempt, primarily due to the fear of gaining excess weight. They believe that it is impossible to take hormones without increasing body weight. Of course, weight gain when taking OK is just a myth.

In the event that products containing hormones are selected individually by a gynecologist, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, the weight will in no case change. Consider the benefits of birth control pills after 40 years:

1. protection against pregnancy.
2. Basically, the drugs do not have side effects or they occur very rarely.
3. normalization of the menstrual cycle.
4. an invaluable advantage for the skin: it becomes more even and smooth, and the nails are strong.
5. reduce the risk of developing certain ailments: osteoporosis, tumor formations, ovarian cysts and fibroids.
6. delaying the onset of menopause.

In order to avoid side effects or other troubles, it is very important to choose the right contraceptives individually after 40 years, a gynecologist will help you with this.

What contraceptives to choose after 40 years

The pharmaceutical market is replenished every day with new names and manufacturers of contraceptives. Consider drugs that are suitable for adult women.

mini pili

Gynecologists advise older women to give preference to contraceptives that contain a minimum amount of estrogen - mini-pills. To date, they are considered the safest and most effective.

1. Charosetta;
2. Lactinet;
3. Microlute;
4. Exoluton;
5. Micronor.

COOK

There is one more efficient view means that inhibits ovulation and reliably protects against unwanted pregnancy - combined oral contraceptives. Compared to mini-pills, these birth control pills after 40 years of age have a wider range of side effects, but in the absence of contraindications, doctors recommend that women take some of the drugs in this group:

Name of the drug	Feature and price	Photo
Thanks to the active substance of the drug, a viscous mucus is formed, which prevents fertilization. The cost of the drug is from 490 to 560 rubles, depending on the region.
The drug is available in tablets. It increases the production of sex hormones, as a result of which ovulation becomes impossible. The price is from 380 to 460 rubles.
Modern hormonal pills. In addition to 99% protection against unwanted pregnancy. This drug with androgenic effect improves skin condition, helps to get rid of acne. The price is from 1400 to 1500 rubles.
Popular new generation contraceptives. Apart from contraceptive effect has medicinal properties. Effective in the treatment of cysts and fibroids. The cost is from 950 to 1400 rubles.
It inhibits the process of maturation of the egg, and makes fertilization impossible. The average price is 400 rubles.
It is a single-phase contraceptive, most relevant for nulliparous women. The active substance affects the mucous membrane of the uterus, inhibiting spermatozoa. The cost is from 890 to 940 rubles.
Effective in the treatment of cysts, normalizes the menstrual cycle, prevents the fertilization of the egg. The price is from 340 to 480 rubles.

emergency contraception

In addition to pills that must be taken daily, there are so-called "SOS contraceptives". In this case, there is only one tablet in the package, which must be taken after the act of intimacy.

Please note that the name of medications is indicated for informational purposes only, and is not a guide to self-prescribing the drug without consulting a doctor.

What is better to use after 40 years, a spiral or birth control pills?

Doctors believe that at this age it is better to give preference to hormonal pills. As a rule, women after forty have a lack of hormones, which is necessary to maintain youth and maintain an active sex life.

Also, the advantage of hormonal pills compared to the spiral is the minimum number of side effects that occur very rarely.

Contraindications

As you know, any medicinal product can cause the body not only benefit, but also harm. Possible harm for the body manifests itself if a woman has contraindications to taking hormonal drugs.

List of main contraindications:

1. Frequent headaches.
2. Excess weight.
3. Frequent inflammatory diseases, especially diseases of the larynx.
4. Chronic depression or constant stress.
5. Vascular diseases.

Also, when taking hormonal drugs, it is necessary to refrain from taking alcoholic beverages, since alcohol reduces the effectiveness of medications.

Contraceptives for various diseases

As a rule, after 40 years, many women have some diseases and health problems. In the presence of a particular pathology, the doctor recommends giving preference to a certain type of contraceptive.

Contraceptives for smokers

• Heart attack.
• Stroke.
• Atherosclerosis.
• Thrombosis.

Gynecologists advise women who smoke to give preference to an intrauterine device or use non-hormonal contraceptives.