What is the Mini-Pill?

Unlike the combination pill, the progestogen-only pill (POP) or mini-pill contains only small amounts of one hormone.

How does it work?

It works by reducing and thickening the cervical mucus to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. It also changes the jelly-like mucus at the entrance of the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to penetrate. In addition to this traditional mini-pill, there is an estrogen-free pill containing the progestogen "desogestrel" which also inhibits ovulation.

How effective is it?

The reliability of the progestogen-only pill is high, but slightly less than that of the combined pill. The mini-pill offers an alternative for women who cannot or do not want to use estrogen-containing oral contraceptives for medical reasons or for those who are breastfeeding. It reduces menstrual pain and blood flow. For those who wish to become pregnant, the method is easily reversible. Plus it is 90-99% effective. Because the mini-pill does not have estrogen, it tends to have milder side effects than combined OCs. The most recent mini-pill also prevents ovulation making it a very reliable option.

Don't forget...

The mini-pill must be taken at precisely the same time everyday to be effective. Absolutely no missed pills. Otherwise, the contraceptive reliability may no longer be adequate.The estrogen-free pill containing the progestogen "desogestrel" allows for a longer time window of intake (max. 12 hrs), as it inhibits also ovulation. Also this pill should always be taken at the same time of the day however.

Are there side effects?

• For the traditional mini-pill, no back-up is needed, for the estrogen-free pill containing the progestogen "desogestrel" a back-up is recommended for the first week of the first cycle as for traditional combined pills.
• your periods will become irregular
• although rare, breast tenderness, headaches, nausea and weight change might occur