The Differences Between Yaz vs. Yasmin Contraceptive Pills

How Do Hormonal Birth Control Pills Work?

Birth control pills prevent pregnancy by targeting specific phases of the menstrual cycle. They achieve this by introducing synthetic hormones into the body to maintain a consistent hormone level, thus preventing the hormonal fluctuations responsible for various aspects of the cycle. The primary hormones used in birth control pills are synthetic estrogens and progesterone (progestin).

Progestin plays a significant role in birth control by thickening the cervical mucus, which hinders the movement of sperm into the uterus. It also prevents the hormonal changes that trigger ovulation, effectively blocking the release of eggs. While estrogen also contributes to preventing ovulation, its primary function is maintaining a "normal" menstrual cycle.

Yaz and Yasmin

Yaz and Yasmin are two popular birth control pills that contain a combination of hormones to prevent pregnancy. While they have some similarities, there are also notable differences between the two.

Hormonal Composition

Both medications contain the same combination of ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and drospirenone (a progestin). However, they come in different strengths and dosages.

Yaz

• 28 pills: 24 active pills and 4 placebos
• Contains 3 mg of drospirenone (a progestin) and 0.02 mg of ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) in each active tablet

Yasmin

• 28 pills:21 active pills and 7 placebos
• contains 3 mg of drospirenone and 0.03 mg of ethinyl estradiol in each active tablet. It also has 7 inactive tablets

Yaz is known to cause shorter periods (withdrawal bleeding), but this does not impact the effectiveness of the medication. Efficacy of both Yaz and Yasmin ranges betweeb 91 to 99% in preventing pregnancy.

Indications

Both Yaz and Yasmin are typically used to prevent pregnancy. Yaz has two additional FDA-approved indications.

• Treatment for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Yaz is approved to alleviate the symptoms of PMDD, a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It can help manage symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, and irritability.
• Treatment of moderate acne: Yaz is also approved for the treatment of moderate acne in women aged 14 years and older. It can be beneficial in reducing acne breakouts and improving the overall appearance of the skin.

Who Can't Take These Medications

Yaz and Yasmin are generally safe for most individuals, but there are some considerations and contraindications to be aware of.

Do NOT use Yaz or Yasmin if you:

• Are pregnant
• Have breast cancer
• Experience undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
• Are within 6 weeks of delivery
• Smoke and are older than 35 years
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes
• Have heart diseaset
• Have a history of blood clot
• Experience migraines with aura
• Have active liver disease

Side Effects

Both Yaz and Slynd, like any medications, may have potential side effects. Due to the differences in hormone types and strengths between the two pills, the specific side effects can vary slightly. Here are the most common side effects associated with each contraceptive pill, listed in descending order of likelihood:

Yaz

• Headache
• Changes in menstrual periods (spotting, irregular periods)
• Nausea
• Breast pain or tenderness
• Mood changes

Yasmin

• Increased premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms
• Headache
• Breast pain/tenderness
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Mood changes

Side effects of oral contraceptives are often worst during the initial three months of use. Beyond this period these symptoms generally improve significantly or may even resolve completely. Therefore, it is commonly recommended to continue using a specific contraceptive for at least three months before considering a switch due to side effects, unless the side effects are severe. This timeframe allows for the body to adjust to the medication, increasing the likelihood of symptom improvement over time.

Cost

In general, the prices of the two medications are comparable. The average retail price for one package of Yaz is $55, compared to $59 for one package of Yasmin.

Which One Should I Be On?

These two medications are comparable. Your choice therefore depends on your own individual preferences.

Prices mentioned in this article are based on average retail price at major box chain pharmacy in the U.S. as of May 29, 2023.