Mini Pill

Mini pill

The Progestogen Only Pill (POP) category is dubbed the 'Mini Pill' and is a common form of oral contraception. It does not contain an Oestrogen derivative but is still effective in protecting against pregnancy. It is used in women for whom Oestrogen is not recommended.

Overview

Progestogen is a synthetic hormone which works similarly to the natural hormone Progesterone. It thickens the mucus in the cervix, making it harder for sperm to travel to the womb.
It also reduces the thickness of the uterus lining, which stops the eggs from embedding in this lining. Desogestrel (Cerazette) can also stop the ovaries from releasing eggs (ovulation).

It is usually given in women who cannot take Oestrogen containing pills. It is also given to women who are over 35 and are smokers.

'Progestogen Only Pill' is also known as 'POP.'

How to take it?

All the POPs are taken once a day at the same time each day without a break. It can be safely taken until you are 55 or experience menopausal symptoms unless the doctor states otherwise.

• It can be safely stopped anytime, which helps in family planning. They are not known to affect your chances of future pregnancies.
• When taken correctly, it can be 99% effective.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

It can be relatively easy to miss a dose. It is important to understand what you should do if you miss a dose.

Less than 3 hours late from the usual time or Less than 12 hours for Desogestrel

• Take as soon as you remember
• Take the next pill at the usual time
• You are protected from Pregnancy, and no other contraceptive methods are required.

More than 3 hours late or more than 12 hours for Desogestrel

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• Take the next pill at the usual time
• You are not protected; use additional contraceptive methods for at least two days.
• If you have had unprotected sex during this time, you may require emergency contraception. Ask the Doctor or Pharmacist for further advice.

Benefits of POP treatment

• The Pill can be safely taken for women who are intolerant of Oestrogen or if Oestrogen has been contraindicated.
•  If you are a smoker and over 35 years of age, the Pill can be safely used to offer reliable and effective protection.
• Can be safely taken after giving birth (see below for further information)
• Safe to take whilst breastfeeding

Risks associated with POP

The POP is relatively safe. However, there are some risks associated. It is essential to understand this to ensure you are safe and continued POP use is suitable for you.

• Increased risk of Breast Cancer, especially if there is a family history of breast cancer

Childbirth and breastfeeding

Progestogen-only pills are safe and effective in providing contraception at least 21 days after childbirth. If taken 21 days after childbirth, it can provide immediate protection. If taken after 23 days, additional contraception should be taken for two days to ensure you are completely protected.

The POP is safe to take whilst breastfeeding. A small amount does pass through to the breast milk, but it isn't harmful to your Baby.

Pregnancy

The likelihood of pregnancy is extremely low. However, the POP should not be taken if you are found to be pregnant, as it can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy. This means that the pregnancy occurs outside of the womb. If you are pregnant, then stop taking the pill and contact your doctor.

Vomiting and Diarrhoea

Absorption of the active ingredients is reduced if you experience Diarrhoea or vomiting.
If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking a dose, then you should take another tablet immediately. If you take it 3 hours after (or 12 for Desogestrel) then you may not be protected. Additional methods should be used for two days. If you experience Diarrhoea or vomiting for more than 24 hours, you should use additional precautions during and for two days after recovery. Our doctors can provide further information if required.

Adverse effects

As with all medication, there are certain negative effects that some but not all women can experience. The progestogen-only pill is relatively safe, and the incidence of side effects is low and usually transient, meaning they diminish after taking for a few months.

However, it is important to understand your medication to ensure you are aware of the potential risks of treatment. Some effects are detailed below:-

• Headaches or migraines
• Acne or spotting of the skin
• Breast tenderness and enlargement
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in sex drive
• Cysts on your ovaries
• Menstrual bleeds can be irregular, last longer or stop

These effects are usually transient and diminish over time. Please read the patient information leaflet to ensure you understand the medication you are taking. If you experience any side effects, whether listed above or in the patient information leaflet, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Our doctors are on hand to offer expert one-to-one advice, so please do not hesitate to ask any questions.

The Pill and other medication

It may be unsafe to take the POP if you are on certain medications such as:-

• Anti Epileptics – Carbamazepine, Phenytoin
• St Johns Wort
• Antibiotics such as Rifamycins
• Anti Coagulants such as Phenindione

Please inform the doctor if you are on any medication to ensure the pill is safe and suitable for you. We also recommend reading the patient information leaflet to understand the medication you are taking.

How To Buy

You can choose your treatment, and our registered doctors will perform a quick and easy consultation to ensure it is safe and effective for you. If approved before 3 pm, the UK pharmacy can dispatch your order in discreet packaging for next-day delivery.

Additional resources

Where to get the contraceptive pill?

What's the difference between the combined contraceptive pill and the mini pill?