Progestogen-only pill

About Progestogen-only Pill

This belongs to the group of medicines known as Oral Progestogen-only contraceptives .

Progestogen-only contraceptives are also known as the 'Progestogen-only Pill', 'POP' or the 'mini-pill'. They contain Progestogen which is a female sex hormone.

Progestogen-only contraceptives work by thickening the fluid in the cervix (the neck of the uterus and womb). This makes it very difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and into the uterus in order to fertilise an egg. The hormone also affects the lining of the uterus so that is it does not become thick enough for an egg to grow. In some women, the Progestogen-only contraceptive also stops an egg being produced.

This medicine is available in tablet form.

Brands available are: Cerazette; Femulen; Micronor; Microval; Neogest; Norgeston; Noriday..

Before Taking Progestogen-only Pill

Before taking this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant.
• If you suffer from heart or liver problems.
• If you have breast cancer.
• If you suffer from ovarian cysts or vaginal bleeding other than your normal monthly period.
• If you suffer from porphyria.
• If you suffer from a condition that upsets the absorption of food such as coeliac disease, cystic fibrosis or pancreatitis.
• If you have abnormal blood cells (sickle-cell anaemia).
• If you suffer from severe circulation problems
• If you have ever had an ectopic pregnancy or if you have experienced itching or rashes during a previous pregnancy.
• If you have ever suffered from jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes) including during pregnancy.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to the mini-pill or any other medicine of this type.
• If you are taking any other type of medicine either bought or on prescription If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines. Some medicines may stop the mini-pill from working properly.

Read the sections on the manufacturers leaflet entitled contraindications, warnings and precautions. If you are worried by any of the information consult your doctor for further advice before you begin your first packet.

How to Take Progestogen-only Pill

• If you are taking this particular pill for the first time, read the manufacturer's leaflet carefully which will tell you when to start taking it and how. Progestogen-only Pills are taken every day without a break.
• You must take your pill at exactly the same time each day. It is important not to miss any doses. If you do forget to take your pill but it is less than three hours late, take it as soon as you remember then continue as normal. If your pill is more than three hours late, you will not be protected against pregnancy. In such a case you should start taking your pill as soon as you remember but you must take extra precautions (i.e. use a condom) for the next seven or fourteen days depending on the brand of pill that you are taking. Read the paragraph in the manufacturer's information leaflet which will be headed 'what to do if you forget to take a pill'. If you are unsure about the advice, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
• This medicine is for you, never give it to others.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• To help decide whether the mini-pill is suitable for you, your doctor will assess your medical history and general health. If you have an existing medical condition and you wish to start taking the mini-pill, your health may need to be more closely monitored. The manufacturer's leaflet will list the conditions that may need to be taken into consideration. Make sure you tell your doctor if you suffer from any of these.
• Always attend your regular appointments with the doctor. Your doctor may want you to have regular blood pressure checks and pelvic or breast examinations while you are taking this medicine.
• If you suspect that you may be pregnant, stop using this medicine at once and consult your doctor as soon as possible.
• Some medicines can reduce the effectiveness of your pill. These include antiepileptics, antifungals and medicines used to treat tuberculosis (TB). You will need to use an additional method of contraception while you are taking the medicine and for seven days afterwards. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you are given any other medicines.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment or medical tests, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking the mini-pill.
• If you are sick within three hours of taking your pill or have a severe stomach upset or diarrhoea, the mini-pill may not work. You will need to use an additional method of contraception, such as a condom, during the illness and for seven days after recovery.

Can Progestogen-only Pill cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Irregular menstrual bleeding, breast discomfort, acne, headaches, feeling sick, vomiting, dizziness, mood changes, skin disorders, changes in appetite, weight changes or changes in sex drive.

If you experience jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), pain and swelling in one calf or sudden breathlessness speak to your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital immediately.

Make sure you read the guidelines in the manufacturer's leaflet that gives you reasons for stopping the mini-pill. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, consult your doctor.

If you experience any other symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Progestogen-only Pill

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of the children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 24/03/2005