The progestogen-only pill is a daily pill you swallow at the same time each day to prevent pregnancy. It’s also called the mini pill.
If taken correctly, it can be more than 99% effective. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 people who use the progestogen-only pill as contraception will get pregnant in one year.
In real life, about 8 in 100 people will get pregnant in a year because they forget to take it (92% effective).
It does not provide protection against STIs.
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How does it work?
The progestogen only pill thickens the mucus at the entrance of the womb so that sperm can’t get through. It also thins the lining of the womb so that a fertilised egg can’t implant and grow.
In some people, it also stops eggs from being released (ovulation) so that there’s no egg to be fertilised. When taken correctly, it is a very effective method of contraception.
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Advantages
The progestogen-only pill may help with painful or heavy periods and endometriosis.
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Disadvantages
- Irregular periods – your periods may be lighter, more frequent or may stop altogether. You may get some bleeding (spotting) between periods.
- Some people may get acne, mood swings, weight gain or changes to their sex drive (libido).
- Where to get it?