Dienogest/Estradiol Valerate (Oral)

Dienogest is an oral contraceptive that is made by combining several female hormones. When a woman takes these hormones together, she greatly reduces the chances that she’ll get pregnant. The hormones thicken the cervical lining, making it more difficult for sperm to get through, and make the lining of the uterus thinner so that if an egg does get fertilized, it is less likely to attach to the uterus. The hormones also interfere with ovulation, further reducing the chances of accidental pregnancy.

Warnings/Side Effects

Women who smoke, especially women who are chain smokers or who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day, should not use this medication until they have quit smoking. This medication increases the chances of having a stroke in women who are heavy smokers. Women who are over the age of 35 are also at risk of having a stroke if they take this medication.