women have questions regarding this method, and I'd like to address some of the most common of them.

I was always told it is not safe to not have a period every month, why is it ok on Seasonale? In the normal course of a month the lining of woman's uterus thickens in response to her hormonal cycle, and is shed when pregnancy does not occur. If the lining is not shed, over time the patient is at risk for health problems, including endometrial cancer. However, when a woman's cycle is controlled by oral contraceptive there is no build up, and a monthly period is unnecessary.

If a monthly period is unnecessary, why do most pills induce them? Monthly withdrawal bleeds were initiated on oral contraceptives because early researchers believed that women would want a period in order to be sure that they were not pregnant, not because there was a physiologic reason for it.

How effective is it?

Like all oral contraceptives, Seasonale's effectiveness is dependent upon being used correctly. That means being taken consistently at the same time each day, without missing pills. When that is done, the effectiveness is approximately 99%.

What advantages does Seasonale offer over other pills?

The most obvious advantage is that women have fewer periods. For those with very heavy and or painful periods that translates into less days of work or school being missed. Just imagine, an entire summer without having to worry about having a period!

What disadvantages are there to Seasonale?

Some women will be uncomfortable without having a monthly cycle to reassure them that they are not pregnant. Side affects, like with all pills, include breast tenderness, break through bleeding, and bloating. Although, these are most common in the first 91 day pill pack, and usually resolve with continued use.

Is Seasonale right for me?

Seasonale definitely is a viable option for many women, but in order to determine whether or not it is appropriate for you, you should talk to your health care provider at The Woman's Wellness Center, P.C.

Last Updated May 2007

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