Contraceptives and Sinus conditions

There are 14 methods of contraception to choose from.

1. Male condom
2. Male sterilization
3. Cap with spermicidal
4. Male sterilization
5. Implant
6. Progestogen only pill
7. Contraceptive patch
8. Female condoms
9. Diaphragm with spermicidal
10. Female sterilization
11. Natural family planning
12. Combined pill
13. Contraceptive infection
14. Intrauterine device

A new hormonal contraceptive is also available. It is called The Vaginal Contraceptive Ring, or Nuva Ring. It is only available through a prescription.
Protection against pregnancy is provided for up to one month with the Nuva Ring.

Benefits of using the Ring

1. Decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers
2. Protection against pelvic inflammatory disease and etopic pregnancy
3. Decrease in the appearance of acne
4. Decreases severity PMS symptoms
5. Menstrual periods are lighter and shorter in duration with fewer cramps
6. Insertion is only done once a month

The most common side effects are:

1. Mood swings
2. Upper respiratory tract infection
3. Weight gain
4. Nausea
5. Headaches
6. Tender breasts
7. Yeast infections
8. Vaginal discharge
9. Sinus infection

Oral contraceptive pills should be taken each day and at the same time. If you forget to take one or more of your contraceptive pill for more than 12 hours, your protection while having sex will be at risk of falling pregnant.

Contraceptives and Sinus Conditions

Women do not need to stop using oral contraceptives as the absolute risk of cerebral sinus thrombosis is very small.

A number of pregnant women experience Post Nasal Drip/ nasal congestion, which is normally caused by high level of estrogen in their bloodstream as a result of contraceptives. Estrogen increases the blood flow through out the pregnant women’s body, which includes the mucus membrane of the nose, hence causing upset tummies as the Post Nasal Drip flows down the back of the throat and into your stomach.

Numerous factors that increase the production of clear thin secretions (Post Nasal Drip) include:

1. Flu’s
2. Allergies
3. Cold air
4. Spicy food
5. Medication (high blood pressure, drugs)
6. Contraceptive (birth control pill)

Structural abnormalities such as a deviated or irregular nasal septum can also increase mucus production.