Triphasil is a "combined"
oral contraceptive, which means that it contains two different types of hormones. It contains both an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (levonorgestrel). Combined oral contraceptives are the most commonly used type of
birth control pills. Generally, combined oral contraceptives are more effective than progestin-only birth control pills.
Most importantly, the hormones in Triphasil prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries). However, it also works to prevent pregnancy in two other, less important ways. Triphasil changes the cervical mucus (the fluid of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina), making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. Lastly, Triphasil alters the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium), making it less receptive to an embryo.
Triphasil is known as a triphasic birth control pill (hence the name "Triphasil"), which means that there are three different "phases" of pills in each pack (plus the last week of tablets with no active ingredients). Each week has a different amount of the hormones in Triphasil. This is why it is very important to take the pills in the correct order.
Triphasil Use in Children and Teens
Triphasil is approved for use in women of reproductive age. This means that it is not approved for use in girls who have not yet had their first menstrual period.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Triphasil for something other than contraception. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, some off-label Triphasil uses include the treatment of the following conditions:
- Acne
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Painful menstrual periods
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
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