Kariva

Kariva 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. Kariva may make the menstrual cycle more regular, and cause the menstrual period to become lighter in flow, shorter in duration, and less painful. Kariva is just one of many birth control pills that are available today. They each have benefits and risks, and the pill that works best for one woman may not be the best choice for another. For example, some patients and doctors feel Mircette is better than Kariva. Your doctor can discuss the benefits of Kariva vs. Estrostep, Mircette, and other pills, to help you decide which is right for you. Consult your doctor about changing from Mircette or Estrostep to Kariva -he or she will advise you on the proper way to switch pills without losing their effectiveness.

Kariva 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 Kariva 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 Kariva should not smoke.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take Kariva. If you become pregnant while on Kariva, see your doctor right away. In order for Kariva 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 Kariva's package instructions 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. Use a backup birth control method such as condoms to prevent pregnancy during your first cycle of Kariva. Certain drugs, especially antibiotics, may decrease Kariva's effectiveness. You will need to use a backup birth control method while you are taking antibiotics, but do not stop taking Kariva unless your doctor instructs you to do so.