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The daily progestogen-only contraceptive pill, also known as the Mini-Pill is a popular method of contraception in the UK. It is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
What is the progestogen-only contraceptive pill?
The traditional progestogen-only pill (POP) contains a synthetic version of the naturally-occurring progesterone hormone called desogestrel. Desogestrel prevents pregnancy by thickening the mucus in the cervix to stop sperm reaching an egg.
The desogestrel progestogen-only pill can also stop ovulation.
The progestogen-only pill needs to be taken every day to work.
Is it effective at preventing pregnancy?
If taken correctly, it’s more than 99% effective. This means fewer than 1 in 100 who uses the progestogen-only pill as contraception will get pregnant in 1 year. With “typical use” of the progestogen-only pill (the way it’s taken by a lot of women in real life), it’s only about 91% effective.
How should I take the pill?
You take a pill every day, with no break between packs of pills. You must take the progestogen-only pill at the same time each day. If you take it more than 12 hours late (desogestrel pill) – it may not be effective. If you’re sick (vomit) or have severe diarrhoea, the progestogen-only pill may not work.
The progestogen-only pill can be used if you cannot use contraception that contains oestrogen. You can take the progestogen-only pill if you’re over 35 and you smoke.
Some medicines may affect the progestogen-only pill’s effectiveness – ask your pharmacist for details.
What do I do if I missed a pill?
If you miss your regular time to take the Mini Pill, and you are less than 12 hours late, take the Mini Pill straight away. This may mean taking 2 tablets in the same day. This should not compromise the effectiveness of the Mini Pill at preventing pregnancy.
If you have missed your dose for longer than 12 hours, take the Mini Pill immediately and continue on with the next tablet at your regular time. This may mean taking 2 tablets in the same day. Use additional contraceptive precautions for the next 7 days (i.e. barrier method).
It is perfectly fine if you have to take your Mini Pill earlier than usual. Take note of the time you took the tablet and make sure your next tablet is 24 hours later, or no later than 36 hours from when you last took the tablet.
It is important to take the Mini Pill correctly for effective contraception. If unprotected sex occurs during the 7 days where additional contraceptive precaution is needed, even if you are taking the Mini Pill during the 7 days, you may need emergency contraception.
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