About

The mini pill, also known as the progestogen-only pill (POP), is a form of birth control that uses the hormone progesterone without oestrogen, making it suitable for those who cannot take oestrogen-based contraceptives. This pill is highly effective when taken at the same time daily, with typical use effectiveness slightly lower due to timing inconsistencies.

It’s particularly beneficial for women who are breastfeeding as it does not affect milk production and can be started immediately after childbirth or a miscarriage for immediate protection against pregnancy. Common side effects include changes in menstrual patterns and potential physical discomforts like breast tenderness and nausea.

However, the mini pill requires strict adherence to timing—taking it more than three hours late may reduce its effectiveness, necessitating additional contraception like condoms.

The mini pill is not advised for those with severe liver disease, certain cancers, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your health needs.

Symptoms

Symptoms and considerations for those considering the mini pill, or progestogen-only pill (POP), laid out in bullet points for clarity:

● Menstrual Irregularities: The mini pill may cause changes in menstrual patterns, ranging from lighter, less frequent periods to no periods at all.
● Endometriosis Management: It helps manage symptoms by altering the menstrual cycle and thickening cervical mucus, which can reduce menstrual pain and excessive bleeding.
● Breastfeeding Compatibility: Safe for use during breastfeeding as it does not significantly impact milk production.
● Postpartum Use: Can be started as early as six weeks after childbirth, offering a contraceptive option that does not contain oestrogen.
● Suitability for Certain Health Conditions: Ideal for individuals who cannot take oestrogen, such as those with a history of blood clots, stroke, heart disease, or severe migraines.
● Strict Adherence Required: It must be taken at the same time every day to maintain effectiveness; missing doses can significantly reduce its contraceptive effectiveness.
● Menopause Transition: Can be used up until menopause, providing a long-term contraceptive solution for those who prefer to avoid oestrogen.

Diagnosis

When considering the use of the mini pill, particularly for conditions like menstrual irregularities and endometriosis, diagnosis is typically conducted by healthcare providers through a detailed medical history and a series of diagnostic tests. It’s important to note that diagnosis of these underlying health conditions occurs separately from the decision to use the mini pill as a contraceptive method.

● Menstrual Irregularities Diagnosis: Diagnosis of menstrual irregularities typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s menstrual cycle. This may include keeping a diary of menstrual bleeding and symptoms. Healthcare providers may also perform a physical exam and recommend blood tests to check hormone levels and rule out other conditions like thyroid disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It’s crucial to identify any underlying health issues that may be contributing to menstrual irregularities before determining the most suitable contraceptive method.

● Endometriosis Diagnosis: Endometriosis is often suspected based on symptoms such as severe menstrual cramps, chronic pelvic pain, and pain during sexual intercourse or bowel movements. A definitive diagnosis usually requires a laparoscopy, a minor surgical procedure where a camera is used to look inside the abdominal cavity. This allows the doctor to directly see and often take a sample of the endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus, which is essential for a conclusive diagnosis. It’s important to diagnose and manage endometriosis appropriately to address symptoms and prevent complications, regardless of contraceptive choices.

For those starting the mini pill, no specific diagnostic tests are required. However, healthcare providers typically ensure that potential users are not pregnant and do not have health conditions that contraindicate its use, such as certain cancers or severe liver disease.

Treatments

Mini pills are a form of oral contraceptive that contain only one hormone, progestogen, as opposed to combination pills that contain both oestrogen and progestogen. They are particularly beneficial for women who are sensitive to oestrogen or have conditions where oestrogen is contraindicated. Here’s some highlighted products that we offer:

Desogestrel 75 mcg Mini-Pill (84 Tablets)

● Active Ingredient: Desogestrel
● Key Features: This progestogen-only contraceptive is often chosen for its over 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy when taken correctly. It’s particularly favoured for its potential to completely stop menstrual bleeding in some users, which can be beneficial for those with heavy or painful periods.

Cerazette Mini Pill (Desogestrel) 75mcg – 84 Tablets

● Active Ingredient: Desogestrel
● Key Features: Similar to the first, Cerazette is highly effective in preventing pregnancy and is often recommended for breastfeeding mothers as it does not affect milk supply. It also offers the benefit of potentially reducing or eliminating periods.

Zelleta (Desogestrel 75 mcg Tablets)

● Active Ingredient: Desogestrel (Zelleta)
● Key Features: Zelleta works similarly to Cerazette, offering high contraceptive efficacy with the added benefit of managing symptoms associated with menstrual disorders. Like other mini pills, it is safe to use during breastfeeding and can help in reducing acne and excessive hair growth associated with hormonal fluctuations.

Cerelle 75 mcg Tablets

● Active Ingredient: Desogestrel
● Key Features: Cerelle is comparable to the other desogestrel-containing mini pills in its effectiveness and benefits. It is particularly noted for its minimal impact on weight, a common concern among contraceptive users, and its ability to quickly return fertility to normal levels after discontinuation.

Related Reading

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