This is a progestogen-only contraceptive mini pill containing no oestrogen.

You have to take your progestogen-only pill every day at/around the same time.

The progestogen-only pill works because it thickens the mucus that is present in your cervix, which then stops any sperm from reaching your eggs. Depending on the kind of mini pill you are prescribed at your IPSA Medical clinic, it can also work by stopping egg release (ovulation).

Your IPSA Medical mini-pill consultation

Your female IPSA Medical family planning specialist will work with a client-centred focus during your full-length IPSA Medical mini-pill consultation. With her holistic approach to your treatment, you can reach an informed decision on the best contraception for your particular needs. Your IPSA Medical clinician will then examine you, will encourage you to voice any concerns regarding contraception and will also ensure that your privacy is paramount at all times.

During your IPSA Medical clinic consultation, you will be counselled on how to take your mini pill, on what to do if you do forget to take your mini pill on time, and on any of the possible side effects. Your IPSA Medical clinician will also book your follow-up mini-pill reviews at appropriate time intervals.

The progestogen-only mini pill: Facts

This type of mini contraceptive pill is over 99% effective when taken correctly.

The mini pill does have to be taken daily, with no break between your packs of mini pills.

If you do need a contraceptive with no oestrogen because, for example, you are overweight, you might have experienced previous blood clots, or you present with high blood pressure, then this progestogen-only mini pill is one alternative that may suit you.

If you are 35 (or older) and if you are a smoker, then you can take this progestogen-only mini pill.

The progestogen-only mini pill needs be taken each day at the same time because it is not as effective when taken more than 3 hours late or, if you are prescribed Cerazette, it loses effectiveness if you are more than 12 hours late in taking it.

The progesterone-only pill might also not be effective if:

  • You have severe diarrhoea
  • You vomit
  • You are taking certain medicines (your IPSA Medical physician will discuss this with you)

There are some issues/possible side effects from your mini pill, such as:

  • Irregular, lighter or more frequent periods
  • Breast tenderness (usually clearing up after a few months)
  • Spotty skin (usually clearing up after a few months)
  • No protection against STIs (you will need to use a condom for protection against STIs)

There are two different kinds of progestogen-only pill

Femulen, Noriday, Micronor and Norgeston are all 3-hour progestogen-only mini pills that must be taken within a 3-hour time window every day.

Cerazette, a 12-hour progestogen-only mini pill, has a 12-hour time window.

Each pack of your progestogen-only mini pills has 28 pills. One pill has to be taken daily without any break between your packs of pills. When you finish one of your mini pill packs, you start your next pack on the following day.

Who can take the progestogen-only mini pill?

Although the vast majority of women can safely use the progestogen-only mini pill, this type of contraception might not be suitable if:

  • You have suffered from heart disease
  • You have had ovarian cysts
  • You have had breast cancer
  • You have had liver disease
  • You have had any unexplained vaginal bleeding

Advantages of the progestogen-only mini pill

  • If you cannot take oestrogen-containing contraceptives (such as the vaginal ring or contraceptive pill or patch), then the progestogen-only mini pill can be a good alternative
  • Sex is never interrupted
  • If you are breastfeeding then you can take the progestogen-only mini pill
  • If you are a smoker and over 35, then you can take this mini pill
  • If you have painful periods/PMS (premenstrual syndrome), your symptoms can be lessened with the mini pill

Disadvantages of the progestogen-only mini pill

  • It needs to be taken every day
  • It doesn’t protect you against STIs
  • It might not be as effective when you take certain medications (e.g. some kinds of antibiotic)
  • You might get spotting in between periods, lighter or more frequent periods, or your periods might even stop altogether

If you are considering the progestogen-only mini pill, then book your same-day IPSA Medical mini-pill consultation today.

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