Progestogen-only Pill (POP) Guide
Safe, Evidence-Based Information About Progestogen-only Pills From PharmaBee
Progestogen-only pills (POPs), sometimes known as the mini pill, are a reliable and effective form of oral contraception for many adults. Unlike combined oral contraceptives, POPs contain one hormone (a progestogen) and do not contain oestrogen. For many people, this makes a progestogen-only pill an appropriate alternative to combined oral contraception, while others choose a POP simply because it best suits their lifestyle or personal preference.
When taken correctly, POPs provide highly effective, reversible contraception. They are commonly chosen by people who are breastfeeding, those who have certain medical conditions where oestrogen is not recommended, or those who simply prefer a progestogen-only method of contraception.
At PharmaBee, our online service allows adults aged 18 years and over to request a progestogen-only pill through a secure online consultation reviewed by a qualified UK independent prescriber. Whether you are starting a POP for the first time, continuing your current contraception or considering changing to another progestogen-only pill, every consultation is assessed individually.
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What Is A Progestogen-only Pill (POP)?
A progestogen-only pill (POP) is a prescription-only medicine that helps prevent pregnancy using a single hormone called a progestogen. Unlike combined oral contraceptives (COCs), POPs do not contain oestrogen. Because they contain only one hormone, POPs are suitable for many people who either cannot take oestrogen-containing contraception or would prefer a progestogen-only option. Progestogen-only pills have been used safely for many years and are one of the most commonly prescribed forms of hormonal contraception in the UK.
How Does A Progestogen-only Pill Work?
Preventing Ovulation
The main way desogestrel-containing POPs work is by preventing ovulation. Ovulation is the point in your menstrual cycle when one of your ovaries releases an egg. By preventing ovulation, a POP significantly reduces the chance of pregnancy.
Thickening Cervical Mucus
POPs also make the natural mucus at the entrance to the womb (the cervix) thicker and stickier. This makes it much more difficult for sperm to pass through the cervix and reach an egg, providing an additional layer of contraceptive protection.
Changing The Lining Of The Womb
Progestogen-only pills also cause changes to the lining of the womb (the endometrium). These changes contribute to the overall contraceptive effect of the medicine.
Progestogen-only Pills Available Through PharmaBee
Desogestrel 75 micrograms (Generic)
Contains: Desogestrel 75 micrograms
Generic desogestrel is one of the most commonly prescribed progestogen-only pills in the UK. It contains the same active ingredient as several branded medicines and provides highly effective contraception when taken correctly. Generic medicines licensed for use in the UK must meet the same quality, safety and effectiveness standards as branded medicines.
Cerelle®
Contains: Desogestrel 75 micrograms
Cerelle® is a branded progestogen-only pill containing desogestrel 75 micrograms. It works in the same way as generic desogestrel and provides the same contraceptive protection when taken correctly. If you have previously taken Cerelle® successfully and it remains clinically appropriate, your prescriber will take this into account when reviewing your consultation.
As our contraception service develops, additional progestogen-only pills may become available. If you prefer a different brand please don’t hesitate to fill out our secure online consultation and mention the brand you prefer. Our prescribers will be happy to discuss and may be able to prescribe it for you.
Choosing The Right Progestogen-only Pill
There is no single contraceptive pill that is the right choice for everyone. Choosing a progestogen-only pill (POP) depends on your individual health, medical history, lifestyle and personal preferences. Your medical history plays an important role when choosing any form of hormonal contraception. During your consultation, we ask about your current health, previous medical conditions and any medicines you take.
Progestogen-only pills are often suitable for people who are breastfeeding, although every situation should be assessed individually. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to let your prescriber know during your consultation so they can recommend the most appropriate contraceptive option.
Benefits Of Progestogen-only Pills
Highly Effective Contraception
When taken correctly, desogestrel-containing progestogen-only pills provide highly effective contraception. Their effectiveness depends on taking the medicine as directed.
Does Not Contain Oestrogen
Unlike combined oral contraceptives, POPs do not contain oestrogen. This means they may be an appropriate option for many people who cannot use, or prefer not to use, oestrogen-containing contraception.
Suitable For Many People During Breastfeeding
Progestogen-only pills are often suitable for people who are breastfeeding, although every situation should be assessed individually.
Reversible And Flexible
A progestogen-only pill can usually be started or stopped without requiring a medical procedure. For most people, fertility returns relatively quickly after stopping a POP.
May Change Your Bleeding Pattern
One of the most noticeable effects of a progestogen-only pill is that it may change your bleeding pattern. Some people have lighter or less frequent bleeding, while others may experience irregular bleeding or their periods may stop altogether. These changes are usually not harmful.
Risks And Possible Side Effects Of Progestogen-only Pills
Like all prescription medicines, progestogen-only pills (POPs) have potential benefits and potential side effects. Many people take a POP without experiencing any troublesome problems, while others may notice changes as their body adjusts to the hormones.
Changes To Your Bleeding Pattern
Changes to your bleeding pattern are one of the most common effects of taking a progestogen-only pill. Some people notice lighter periods, less frequent bleeding, irregular bleeding or spotting, or periods stopping altogether. These changes are usually not harmful and do not mean that your contraception is no longer working.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all hormonal contraceptives, POPs may cause side effects in some people. Possible side effects include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, acne or changes to your skin, and changes in sexual desire. Not everyone experiences these side effects.
Although progestogen-only pills do not contain oestrogen, this does not mean they are suitable for everyone. Your medical history, current medicines and overall health remain important when deciding whether a POP is the most appropriate contraceptive option.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should seek medical advice if you experience troublesome or persistent side effects, your bleeding pattern changes unexpectedly or becomes unusually heavy, you think you may be pregnant, you develop a new medical condition, or you start taking a new medicine. If you develop severe abdominal pain, persistent heavy bleeding or feel generally unwell while taking your contraception, seek prompt medical advice.
Important Information
This guide is intended to provide general information about progestogen-only pills and should not replace personalised medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Every request for treatment submitted through PharmaBee is reviewed individually by a qualified UK independent prescriber. A prescription will only be issued if treatment is considered safe and appropriate following an individual clinical assessment. If you experience suspected side effects, these can be reported by patients or healthcare professionals through the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
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