Sex is an important part of our lives, being much more than mere intercourse and representing one of the greatest physical and sensory pleasures you can enjoy. Despite the fact that throughout history it has been taboo and censored, fortunately with the passing of time we have been able to see how sensuality and sexuality have become more and more naturalised in recent decades, with the enjoyment of this element being sought and desired on a regular basis today.

However, unprotected sex can have consequences: from the possibility of being infected with a sexually transmitted disease to the arrival of an unwanted pregnancy . This is why prophylaxis is very important, using products such as condoms in order to eliminate or reduce as much as possible any risk.

As far as the possibility of pregnancy is concerned, there is also another type of product that is very commonly used by women (both for this purpose and others): oral contraceptives. These are drugs that through their action in the body aim to prevent pregnancy. One of them is Yasmin , which we will talk about throughout this article.

What is Yasmin and how does she act?

Yasmin is the name of the trademark of a type of reversible contraceptive developed by Bayer, which works by administering hormones to the body of the person who consumes it. This is a combined hormonal contraceptive, which is characterized by the fact that it consists of more than one active ingredient that has an effect on the body.

This is a relatively common drug that is sold in the form of film-coated tablets, with each package containing a total of 21 tablets in their most common presentation, which must always be taken at the same time each day. Once they are finished, they should be left to rest for a week (at which time their periods should begin), after which, even if their periods have not ended, the next pack should be started.

Its mechanism of action is based on the introduction of hormones into the body , specifically two of them: drospirenone (3 mg per pill) and ethinyl estradiol (0.03 mg per pill).

The first of these is a type of progestin, synthetic substances similar to progesterone, which helps to regulate the menstrual cycle (and in pregnancy, to protect and maintain the state of pregnancy) and has an anti-androgenic and anti-mineralocorticoid effect.

Ethinyl estradiol is a type of estrogen that by itself is useful in helping to control the symptoms of climacteric or the development of sexual characteristics, but in combination with the above serves as a contraceptive by not allowing ovulation to occur while modifying the endometrium and increasing the density of vaginal fluid.

Prices

Yasmin is marketed in a large number of countries , with a price that can vary greatly depending on the location. For example in Spain its average price in the mentioned presentation ranges from 14.85 to 16.95, while in Colombia it can reach 60,500 pesos (although its price will soon be reduced) and in Mexico it can be found for 230-244.50 pesos.

However, despite its effectiveness, it has also been observed that its use can generate significant side effects and has even been associated with deaths from thrombosis.

Main indications

Yasmin is, as we have said, a contraceptive, being as such its most common indication to prevent pregnancy . In this sense, it is a highly effective drug, although it should be taken into account that it does not have any type of action nor does it avoid the possibility of sexually transmitted infections.

However, although it is not indicated at the package leaflet level, it is common for some doctors to also prescribe it to treat menstrual cycle disorders such as irregularities or excessive bleeding, as well as in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Finally has also been used in the treatment of acne or sometimes in premenstrual dysphoric disorder, although these effects are usually secondary to its contraceptive use.

Side effects and risks

As we have mentioned before, Yasmin can be an effective contraceptive, but the truth is that its use also implies the possibility of side effects.

The most common side effects of taking this drug are associated with headaches, gastrointestinal discomfort, weight gain, alterations in blood pressure , alterations in menstruation (intermenstrual bleeding) or pain in areas such as the breasts or abdomen, depressive mood disorders or vaginal yeast infection. It can also raise blood potassium levels.

Alterations in libido, skin rashes, fluid retention, weight changes, itching, asthma, galactorrhea or hearing difficulties may also occur.

But without a doubt one of the most serious risks and possible side effects is the fact that the use of Yasmin increases the risk of thrombosis and thromboembolism , in which blood clots are formed that can clog arteries and veins (something that as we have reflected above has generated debate regarding its level of danger and legal proceedings against the manufacturer due to the existence of severe cases and even deaths). This risk is higher during the first year of treatment or when you return to it after leaving it.

Contraindications

Yasmin is a powerful drug that can generate relevant side effects, and that can be especially dangerous for certain sectors of the population who will have contraindications.

To begin with and taking into account the fact that it increases the risk of suffering from thrombosis, it is totally contraindicated in those people who have or have had some type of thrombus or embolism before or who are at a higher risk than usual of suffering from them.

It should also not be taken by people who have had heart attacks, angina pectoris or stroke, or who have a blood clotting disorder. People with diabetes , especially if there are lesions in the blood vessels, are also contraindicated. Similarly, those who have or have had cancer in the liver, breast or genitals, vaginal bleeding of unknown cause or renal or hepatic failure should avoid it.

In addition, people who are allergic to any of its components should not take Yasmine either. It should not be taken during pregnancy and it is not recommended when breastfeeding. Finally, its consumption is contraindicated with alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, and in case of taking other medications you should carefully consult your doctor.

Bibliographic references:

  • Vidal Vademecum Spain. (2014). YASMIN Film coated comp. 3/0,03 mg. [Online]. Available at: https://www.vademecum.es/medicamento-yasmin_prospecto_63576.