Lo Ovral

Lo Ovral is an hormonal oral contraceptive, or birth control pill. It is most frequently prescribed to prevent pregnancy, but may also be used to improve a woman's menstrual cycle. Lo Ovral may make the menstrual cycle more regular, and cause the menstrual period to become lighter in flow, shorter in duration, and less painful. Lo Ovral is also used to treat PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome).

Lo Ovral side effects may include weight gain, acne, and "breakthrough" bleeding, which is bleeding between menstrual periods. These side effects are normally just minor annoyances, but should still be reported to your doctor. More serious side effects of Lo Ovral include heavy vaginal bleeding, mood changes, or blood clots. You should see your doctor as soon as possible if you experience major side effects. Smoking may increase your risk of serious side effects, especially blood clot formation, so women who are taking Lo Ovral should not smoke.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take Lo Ovral. If you become pregnant while on Lo Ovral, see your doctor right away. In order for Lo Ovral to be fully effective in preventing pregnancy, you must take the pills exactly as prescribed, one per day. The amount and type of hormones in each pill varies depending on where you are in your cycle, so take the pills in the order they are packaged. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you miss more than one dose, review Lo Ovral's package directions to see what to do, as the action you take will depend on the week in which you miss pills, and how many pills you miss.

Oral birth control methods such as Lo Ovral will not protect you against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, the use of condoms is recommended to guard against these diseases. Condoms or another birth control method should also be used during your first pack of pills, to allow the hormones time to absorb into your system and prevent ovulation. Many antibiotics can decrease the effectiveness of Lo Ovral, so if you are prescribed antibiotics, let your doctor know you are taking Lo Ovral. He or she may prescribe a different antibiotic, or advise you to use a backup birth control method while you are on the antibiotics.

You should never buy Lo Ovral without a prescription or without being under a doctor’s care. Your doctor can answer any other questions you have about taking Lo Ovral. Remember that your doctor is the best source of information for you, and any information found online should be verified with him or her.