Compare Levlen with Other Birth Control Pills: Alternatives Explained

• By Celeste Marwood
• 31 Oct, 2025
• 5 Comments

Levlen is a combined oral contraceptive pill that’s been used for decades to prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones: levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. But if you’re considering Levlen, you’re probably wondering: are there better or different options out there? Maybe you’re dealing with side effects, cost issues, or just want to know what else is available. This isn’t about picking the "best" pill-it’s about finding the one that fits your body, lifestyle, and needs.

What’s in Levlen?

Levlen delivers 0.15 mg of levonorgestrel and 0.03 mg of ethinyl estradiol per active tablet. That’s a low-dose combination, meaning it’s designed to minimize hormone exposure while still being effective. Most people take it in a 21-day active pill cycle, followed by 7 days of placebo pills-or sometimes a 28-day pack with iron supplements in the last week. The hormones stop ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining-all to prevent pregnancy.

Levlen works well for many. But not everyone tolerates it. Some report mood swings, headaches, or spotting. Others find the hormone levels too high or too low for their system. That’s why alternatives exist-and why comparing them matters.

Common Alternatives to Levlen

There are dozens of combined oral contraceptives on the market. Here are the most common ones you’ll hear about from doctors or see in pharmacies:

• Yasmin - Contains drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. Drospirenone is a different type of progestin that may help with acne and bloating, but it carries a slightly higher risk of blood clots than levonorgestrel.
• Loestrin 24 Fe - Uses norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, with 24 active pills instead of 21. This reduces the placebo week, which can mean fewer breakthrough bleeds and shorter periods.
• Apri - Similar hormone levels to Levlen (0.15 mg levonorgestrel, 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol), but made by a different manufacturer. It’s often cheaper and just as effective.
• Microgynon 30 - A European standard with the same hormone combo as Levlen. Widely used globally and often prescribed as a first-line option.
• Triphasil - A triphasic pill that changes hormone levels over three phases of the cycle. Some users report fewer side effects because the dose shifts gradually.

These aren’t random picks. Each has been studied in clinical trials and approved by health regulators like the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) in Australia. But their differences matter.

Key Differences: Hormones, Doses, and Side Effects

Not all pills are created equal. The main variations come from the type of progestin, the estrogen dose, and the pill schedule.

Notice that Apri and Microgynon 30 have the exact same hormone levels as Levlen. So if you’re just looking for a cheaper version, those are direct substitutes. But if you’re struggling with bloating or acne, Yasmin might be worth a try. If your periods are heavy or irregular, Loestrin 24 Fe’s longer active phase could help.

When to Stick With Levlen

Levlen isn’t outdated. It’s been around since the 1980s and still works reliably for millions. If you’re on it and feel fine-no mood crashes, no weight gain, no spotting-you should stay on it. There’s no need to fix what isn’t broken.

Also, Levlen is often covered under the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) in Australia. That means you pay less than $30 per script with a concession card, or under $30 without one. Some alternatives aren’t subsidized, making them significantly more expensive.

If you’re on a budget and doing well on Levlen, switching for the sake of switching doesn’t make sense. Stick with what works.

When to Consider Switching

Here are clear signs it might be time to explore alternatives:

• You’ve had persistent nausea or headaches for more than three months.
• You’re experiencing breakthrough bleeding every cycle.
• You’ve gained weight you can’t explain, even with diet and exercise.
• You’re dealing with depression or anxiety that started after starting the pill.
• You’re trying to manage acne or premenstrual symptoms, and Levlen isn’t helping.

These aren’t deal-breakers-they’re signals. Your body might respond better to a different progestin or a lower estrogen dose. For example, switching from 30 mcg ethinyl estradiol to 20 mcg (like in Loestrin 24 Fe) can reduce side effects without lowering effectiveness.

Some women find that switching to a pill with drospirenone (like Yasmin) helps with acne or PMS. Others prefer norethindrone because it’s less likely to cause mood changes. It’s trial and error-but you don’t have to guess blindly.

Non-Pill Alternatives

Levlen is just one option. If you’re open to other methods, there are more effective and longer-lasting choices:

• Implants (Nexplanon) - A small rod placed under the skin of your arm. Releases etonogestrel for up to three years. Over 99% effective. No daily pills. Side effects include irregular bleeding.
• IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena) - Hormonal IUDs release levonorgestrel directly into the uterus. They last 5-8 years, reduce periods, and have fewer systemic side effects than pills.
• Depo-Provera shot - A progestin-only injection every 12 weeks. Great if you forget pills, but can cause bone density loss with long-term use.
• Non-hormonal IUD (Paragard) - Copper-based, lasts 10 years. No hormones. Can make periods heavier, but ideal for those avoiding hormones entirely.

These aren’t "better" than Levlen-they’re different. If you want zero daily effort, an IUD or implant is far more reliable. If you want to avoid hormones, copper IUDs are the only non-hormonal option with long-term protection.

What Doctors Look For When Recommending Alternatives

Doctors don’t just pick pills at random. They consider your health history:

• Do you have a history of blood clots? Then avoid pills with drospirenone or high estrogen.
• Do you smoke and are over 35? Combined pills are usually not recommended.
• Are you breastfeeding? Progestin-only pills or IUDs are safer.
• Do you have migraines with aura? Estrogen-containing pills can increase stroke risk.
• Are you managing PCOS or endometriosis? Some pills help with symptoms more than others.

That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. What’s right for your friend might not be right for you. Your doctor will check your blood pressure, review your family history, and ask about your lifestyle before suggesting a switch.

Cost and Accessibility in Australia

Levlen is listed on the PBS, so you pay around $30.80 (or less with a concession card). But not all alternatives are subsidized.

• Yasmin - Not on PBS. Costs $80-$100 per pack without subsidy.
• Loestrin 24 Fe - On PBS. Similar cost to Levlen.
• Apri - On PBS. Often cheaper than brand-name Levlen.
• Implants and IUDs - Higher upfront cost ($200-$400), but last years. Often covered by private insurance or public health programs.

If cost is a barrier, Apri or Microgynon 30 are direct, cheaper alternatives to Levlen. If you want better acne control and can afford it, Yasmin might be worth the extra cost.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

1. Are you happy with Levlen? No side effects? Good cycle control? Stick with it.
2. Are you having side effects? Write them down. Are they mild or disruptive?
3. What’s your goal? Fewer periods? Better skin? Less cost? Less hassle?
4. What’s your budget? Can you afford a non-PBS pill? Or do you need PBS coverage?
5. Are you open to non-pill options? If you forget pills often, an IUD or implant might be easier.

There’s no rush. Talk to your doctor. Ask for a trial of a different pill for 2-3 months. Track your symptoms. You might find a better fit.

Final Thoughts

Levlen is a solid, reliable option. But it’s not the only one-and it’s not the right one for everyone. The key is matching your body’s response with your lifestyle. If you’re struggling, switching isn’t failure. It’s smart self-care.

Many women find their ideal contraceptive after trying two or three options. Don’t settle for discomfort just because Levlen worked for someone else. Your hormones, your rules.