Progesterone Only Pill
What is it?
The progesterone-only pill (POP), also known as the mini-pill, is a type of contraception that contains only progesterone, without oestrogen. It is an effective and safe option for preventing pregnancy if taken as instructed.
There are a few different types, but the most common one we prescribe in our practice is DESOGESTREL.
Side effects
Some users may experience:
– Irregular periods
– Periods stopping
– Headaches
– Breast tenderness
– Mood changes
Risks
The POP increases the risk of developing ovarian cysts. These cysts are not dangerous and do not usually need to be removed.
The cysts often disappear without treatment. They do not usually cause symptoms.
There may be a possible link between the progestogen-only pill and breast cancer, but the evidence is limited. If there’s any increased chance of breast cancer, the risk is still very small.
Medication Changes
The POP is safe to take for the majority of people but if you have any changes to the medications you are taking it is important to let your pharmacist and/or doctor know to ensure the efficacy of the pill is not affected.
If you take medication that affects the absorption of food such as Orlistat, Ozempic or Mounjaro (Tirzepatide), please let the practice know as these can affect the efficacy of the pill.
Specifically, if you are using Mounjaro, you should use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) in addition to your pill for four weeks after starting the medication, and for four weeks after any increase in dose.
How to take the Pill
For the best protection against pregnancy take one pill at the same time every day.
If you miss the Pill
It is important to know which pill you take- if this is Desogestrel, a pill is ‘missed’ if it is more than 12 hours late (more than 36 hours since taking the last pill). If this is Norethisterone, a ‘missed’ pill is more then 3 hours late.
-Take a pill as soon as you remember
-You are not protected against pregnancy for two days after you miss the pill and it is important to use an alternative form of contraception for the next 2 days
– Speak to the pharmacist/GP or call 111 to find out if you need emergency contraception
If you have diarrhoea/vomiting
If you vomit within 2 hours of taking the pill, you will need to take an additional one as it will not have been absorbed.
Please be aware that if you have diarrhoea then this can cause it to be less effective.
Do I need follow up?
You will have been prescribed the pill after an appointment with a doctor or nurse. Initially they will be prescribed enough for three months.
If things have gone well at the end of the three months you can request more of the pill through the repeat prescription page on the website using the following link https://www.gilmore-medical.com/services/repeat-prescriptions/ and you will be given enough to last you a year.
Provided there have been no changes to your health you can request more medication every year online. You do not need to see a doctor or nurse to do this.