Kariva is a combined
oral contraceptive, which means that it is a
birth control pill that contains two different types of hormones. It contains both an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progesterone (desogestrel). Most importantly, the hormones in Kariva prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries). However, it also works to prevent pregnancy in two other, less important ways. Kariva changes the cervical mucus (the fluid of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina), making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. Lastly, Kariva alters the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium), making it less receptive to an embryo.
Most traditional birth control pills have 21 days of active pills (that contain the hormones), followed by 7 days of inactive pills (with no active ingredients). This gives your body a break from the hormones, causing you to have a period. Kariva has only two inactive tablets (plus five tablets with ethinyl estradiol) for the last week of the pack. These extra days with ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) may decrease breakthrough bleeding (bleeding between periods).
Kariva Use in Children and Teens
Kariva is approved for use in women of reproductive age. This means that it is not approved for use in girls who have not yet had their first menstrual period.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Kariva for something other than contraception. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, off-label Kariva uses include the treatment of the following conditions:
- Acne
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Painful menstrual periods
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
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