Lunelle was once a popular monthly contraceptive injection, but it’s now off the market in the United States due to concerns about its effectiveness. Let’s take a moment to discuss what Lunelle was all about and explore alternatives for those seeking pregnancy prevention.
What Was Lunelle?
Lunelle was an injectable contraceptive that combined synthetic forms of the hormones estrogen and progestin. As a prescription-based hormonal birth control method, it was designed to help women manage their reproductive cycles and fertility. Unfortunately, it is no longer available in the U.S.
How Did Lunelle Work?
The way Lunelle functioned was through the introduction of synthetic hormones into the body, mimicking the natural hormonal processes. It prevented pregnancy through three mechanisms:
- Inhibition of Ovulation: It stopped eggs from being released from the ovaries.
- Cervical Mucus Thickening: It thickened cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
- Endometrial Alteration: It modified the uterine lining to hinder implantation. This last method raised ethical questions for some individuals, so it’s worth considering.
How Was Lunelle Administered?
Lunelle injections were administered by healthcare providers every 28 to 30 days, typically in the upper arm or buttocks. The first injection was given within the first five days of a woman’s menstrual cycle. As mentioned earlier, Lunelle is no longer on the market.
What Was Its Effectiveness?
When used correctly and consistently, Lunelle boasted a failure rate of less than 1%. In practical terms, that meant only 1 in every 1,000 women would become pregnant while using it. However, if you suspect pregnancy, a test is always a good idea.
What Were the Side Effects or Health Risks?
Similar to other hormonal contraceptives, Lunelle could cause side effects such as:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Moderate weight gain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating
Additionally, it could exacerbate depression in some women. Lunelle was not recommended for women who were pregnant, breastfeeding, or had certain health issues, including a history of blood clots, high blood pressure, or specific cancers.
When Should You Consult Your Doctor?
If you experienced symptoms like abdominal pain, chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath, it was essential to contact your healthcare provider. Women with underlying health concerns, such as diabetes or a history of blood clotting disorders, should have a thorough discussion with their doctors.
Is Lunelle Reversible?
Yes, fertility can return after discontinuing Lunelle, although ovulation might take a few months to normalize. Typically, ovulation resumes within three menstrual cycles following the last injection.
What Were the Costs?
Using Lunelle involved two primary costs: the doctor’s visit (ranging from $50 to $200 for initial consultations) and the injection itself (around $30 per month). Follow-up visits generally cost between $20 and $40.
What About STIs?
It’s important to note that Lunelle did not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For those looking for alternatives to hormonal contraception, free sperm donor matching services like Vegas Pregnancy and Make a Mom offer unique solutions, including the only re-usable insemination option. For a deeper look into how at-home insemination works, check out this guide as well.
Pros and Cons of Lunelle
Pros:
- No daily pill to remember
- Convenience of monthly administration
- Potentially lighter and more regular periods
- Protective effects against ovarian cysts and some cancers
Cons:
- No STI protection
- Not suitable for all women due to health concerns
- Requires regular doctor visits
- Possible discomfort from injections
In summary, while Lunelle offered a monthly contraceptive solution, it is no longer available. If you’re considering alternatives, exploring at-home insemination options or consulting health resources like WHO can provide valuable information. For more engaging content, you might also enjoy learning about baby names starting with the letter “I” on our blog here.
For additional insights on family planning and conception, Modern Family Blog is a great resource.