What is Freya?
Freya is a combination birth control. A Freya prescription comes in both 21-day and 28-day options.
How does Freya work?
A Freya prescription helps prevent pregnancy by thickening vaginal fluids, thinning the uterus lining to stop a fertilized egg from successfully implanting, and preventing ovulation (when the ovary releases an egg). For the 21-day pack, take one pill every day for 21 days, wait seven days, and then start the next pack. For the 28-day pack, take inactive “reminder” pills for seven days after the 21 active pills, and then start a new pack. You can also take the 21-day packs back to back to skip your period.
What is Freya used to treat?
Freya is a type of birth control known as a combined oral contraceptive (COC). It contains two hormones, estrogen and progestin, and when taken reduces the chances of pregnancy.
In the case of Freya, the specific hormones are desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol.
How do you take Freya?
If you’re using the 21 day pack of Freya, then take one pill daily at the same time of day for 21 days, then do not take any pills for 7 days. After 7 days begin the next pack. Some women prefer to skip their period by taking the 21 day packs back-to-back, which is acceptable.
If you’re using the 28 day pack take one pill daily. The last seven days are sugar pills, and that’s when your period will occur.
How long does Freya last after you take it?
What are the common side effects of Freya?
When taking Freya, please monitor for a rare but serious side effect of blood clots: shortness of breath, chest pain (particularly with deep breathing), coughing up blood, persistent leg pain, or redness, swelling, or warmth in your lower legs (usually one-sided) can all be indications of a blood clot in the legs or lungs, and should never be ignored.
Please seek medical attention promptly if this occurs, in the emergency department.
Who shouldn't take Freya?
You should not take Freya if you are pregnant. In addition, if you have experienced any of the following conditions: Blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, breast disease, circulation problems, migraine with aura, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Smokers over 35 should not take Freya.
Further reading