Ethinylestradiol

Also known as: EE2, Ethinyl estradiol, Estinyl, Ethisterone, 17α-ethynyl estradiol, 17α-Ethinylestradiol, Ethinyl estradiol, Estrogen, E2

Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic estrogen that mimics the naturally occurring hormone in the body. It is a key component in many birth control pills and hormone replacement therapies. Its primary function is to regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent pregnancy by influencing various biological processes. Specifically, it works by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg (a process known as ovulation), thickening cervical mucus to inhibit sperm from reaching any eggs, and thinning the uterine lining to decrease the chance of a fertilized egg implanting successfully. These actions combine to...

Potential Side Effects

Side effects score: 6; Ethinylestradiol, a synthetic estrogen often used in contraceptives, may cause side effects including nausea, headache, breast tenderness, mood changes, and an increased risk of blood clots. Some users may also experience irregular menstrual bleeding and weight gain. Additionally, long-term use is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.