Jencycla is a progestin-only birth control pill (also known as the "mini-pill") used for the prevention of pregnancy.
It contains norethindrone without estrogen, making it suitable for women who cannot or prefer not to use estrogen.
How Does Jencycla Work?
Prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) in about half of menstrual cycles.
Thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix.
Alters the uterine lining (endometrium) and affects fallopian tubes, which may prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Effectiveness:
Jencycla is slightly less effective than combination birth control pills (which contain both estrogen and progestin).
Typical use (which includes late or missed pills) results in about 5% failure, meaning 1 in 20 women may become pregnant within a year of use.
Perfect use leads to a failure rate of less than 1%.
Other methods of contraception like condoms or IUDs are available, but each method has varying levels of effectiveness. For example:
Combination pill: Less than 1 to 2 pregnancies per 100 women annually.
Progestin-only pill (Jencycla): 1 to 5 pregnancies per 100 women annually.
Who Should Not Use Jencycla?
Pregnant women or those who suspect pregnancy.
Women with active liver disease or a history of liver tumors.
Women with breast cancer or a history of it.
Women experiencing undiagnosed vaginal bleeding.
Smokers over 35 due to increased cardiovascular risks.
Women taking certain medications for epilepsy or tuberculosis, as they can reduce the pill’s effectiveness.
Possible Side Effects:
Irregular bleeding is common (e.g., spotting between periods or long bleeding episodes).
Other possible side effects include:
Headache, nausea, or dizziness.
Breast tenderness.
Rare side effects may include acne, hirsutism (increased hair growth), or weight gain.
Warnings and Precautions:
Cigarette smoking greatly increases the risk of cardiovascular issues (e.g., heart attacks, strokes), especially for women over 35 who use birth control pills.
Jencycla does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. To prevent STIs, use condoms alongside the pill.
Regular breast exams and checkups are advised, especially if you have a history of breast cancer or other risk factors.
Missed Pills:
If you are more than 3 hours late taking the pill:
Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, and take the next pill at the regular time.
Use backup contraception (e.g., condoms) for the next 48 hours.
If you miss more than one pill: Speak with your healthcare provider to evaluate your contraception method.
Other Considerations:
Breastfeeding: Jencycla is generally safe for breastfeeding women and can be started 6 weeks after delivery for those fully breastfeeding and 3 weeks after delivery for those partially breastfeeding.
Switching Pills: If you’re switching from a combination pill to Jencycla, start taking Jencycla the day after finishing the active pills from your previous pack.
What to Do if You Vomit or Have Diarrhea:
Vomiting or severe diarrhea within 4 hours of taking a pill may reduce its effectiveness.
Take another pill as soon as possible and use backup contraception for 48 hours.
Storage Information:
Store Jencycla between 15°C and 30°C and keep it in its original packaging until use.
