PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) Treatment | Low-Dose Birth Control Prescribed Online - Mona Clinic

Low-Dose Birth Control Pills vs. Morning-After Pills (Overview)

What are Low-Dose Birth Control Pills?

Low-dose birth control pills are medications that contain estrogen (follicle hormone) and progestin (luteal hormone). They work through three mechanisms to provide contraceptive effects.

• Suppress ovulation (artificially control hormonal fluctuations to prevent ovulation from occurring)

• Alter cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus

• Keep the uterine lining thin, creating an environment unfavorable for implantation

When taken correctly and continuously, their contraceptive effectiveness is very high. However, if a dose is missed, the effectiveness decreases, so it's important to take them at the same time every day.

Types of Low-Dose Birth Control Pills (Generations/Formulations)

Low-dose birth control pills are categorized into "generations" based on the type of progestin they contain, and into "monophasic" or "triphasic" based on whether the hormone levels within one pack are constant or vary.

For the purpose of alleviating PMS/PMDD symptoms, 4th generation products such as Yaz, which are less likely to cause edema and are formulated with low doses, are often chosen. The doctor will determine which type is most suitable based on the individual's purpose, constitution, smoking history, and other factors.

What are Morning-After Pills?

Morning-after pills (emergency contraceptives) are emergency medications taken to prevent pregnancy in "what if" situations, such as unprotected sex or condom breakage/slippage. They are not a substitute for regular contraception (low-dose birth control pills or condoms) and are intended solely for emergency use.

Types of Morning-After Pills and Timing of Administration

For both types, the sooner they are taken after intercourse, the higher the expected efficacy. Do not delay taking them by thinking "there's still time," but consult immediately if you have any concerns.

The morning-after pill is not an abortion pill.

The morning-after pill prevents pregnancy by suppressing or delaying ovulation. It is not effective if pregnancy has already occurred and is completely different from medical abortion.

Effect of Low-Dose Birth Control Pills on PMS

PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) is characterized by physical and mental discomfort during the period after ovulation until the start of menstruation (luteal phase), which subsides once menstruation begins. The main cause is believed to be rapid fluctuations in female hormones associated with ovulation. Low-dose birth control pills can address the root cause of symptoms by suppressing ovulation and smoothing out hormonal fluctuations.

When psychological symptoms are particularly severe and interfere with daily life and relationships, it is called PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). Taking low-dose birth control pills can alleviate PMS/PMDD symptoms, and may also reduce menstrual pain and blood flow, regulate menstrual cycles, and improve acne and skin problems.

What is PMS?

PMS is characterized by physical and mental discomfort during the period after ovulation until the start of menstruation (luteal phase), which subsides once menstruation begins. Many women who menstruate are said to experience some form of symptoms.

When psychological symptoms are particularly severe and interfere with daily life and relationships, it is called **PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)**.

Self-Check

• Symptoms appear only before menstruation, and ease once menstruation begins.

• It repeats in almost the same pattern every month.

• It affects your work, studies, or relationships with family and partners.

If two or more apply to you, treatment may be worth considering.

PMS Treatment | Why Low-Dose Birth Control Pills are Effective

The main cause of PMS is believed to be rapid fluctuations in female hormones associated with ovulation. Low-dose birth control pills (LEP/OC) suppress ovulation and smooth out hormonal fluctuations, thereby addressing the root cause of the symptoms.

What you can expect from the pill:

• Alleviation of physical and mental symptoms of PMS

• Reduction of menstrual pain and blood flow

• Regularized menstrual cycles, making it easier to plan activities

• Improvements in acne and skin problems may also be seen

In addition, there is an option to combine traditional Chinese medicine (Kampo) and other treatments depending on the symptoms. Please consult with your doctor during the examination.

About Side Effects

Low-Dose Birth Control Pills

• Nausea, irregular bleeding (common at the start of use, usually subsides within a few months)

• Swelling, weight changes

• Headache

• Rarely, thrombosis (please also check the contraindications below)

Morning-After Pills

• Nausea/vomiting (If vomiting occurs after taking the pill, its effectiveness may be reduced, so please consult again after some time.)

• Irregular bleeding

• Menstrual cycle may be temporarily disrupted

Individuals Who Cannot Take or Should Exercise Caution with Birth Control Pills

To ensure safe use, please notify us during your consultation if any of the following apply to you.

• Individuals aged 35 or older who smoke 15 or more cigarettes per day (low-dose birth control pills cannot be prescribed)

• Individuals with a history of thrombosis or family members with thrombosis

• Individuals with migraines accompanied by aura (e.g., scintillating scotoma)

• Individuals undergoing treatment for breast cancer or endometrial cancer, or with a history of these conditions

• Individuals with high blood pressure, obesity, or scheduled for surgery

After starting birth control pills, if you experience calf pain, sudden shortness of breath, or severe headaches, stop taking the pills immediately and seek medical attention.

Mona Clinic's Pill Prescription (Online, Private Pay)

1. Book and complete medical questionnaire on your smartphone (daily from 9:00 to 22:00, open all year round)
2. Online medical consultation with a doctor - we will propose suitable pills based on your symptoms, constitution, smoking history, and medical history.
3. Same-day shipping possible. For ongoing prescriptions,regular delivery prevents missed doses or running out.
4. For concerns about side effects or how to take the pill, consult anytime via follow-up appointments or LINE.

Individuals Who Cannot Take or Should Exercise Caution with Birth Control Pills

To ensure safe use, please notify us during your consultation if any of the following apply to you.

• Individuals aged 35 or older who smoke 15 or more cigarettes per day (prescription not possible)

• Individuals with a history of thrombosis or family members with thrombosis

• Individuals with migraines accompanied by aura (e.g., scintillating scotoma)

• Individuals undergoing treatment for breast cancer or endometrial cancer, or with a history of these conditions

• Individuals with high blood pressure, obesity, or scheduled for surgery

After starting birth control pills, if you experience calf pain, sudden shortness of breath, or severe headaches, stop taking the pills immediately and seek medical attention.