ORAL CONTRACEPTION.

THE MINI PILL:

WHAT IS THE MINI PILL?

The Mini Pill is a daily contraceptive medication that contains very small amounts of only 1 hormone, progestin. e. g. Micronor, Microval.

HOW DO THEY WORK?

·         45% of women using the mini-pill will stop ovulation. (release of the egg from the ovaries.)

·          It thickens the cervical (the mouth of the womb) mucus, making it difficult for sperm to pass through.

ADVANTAGES:

·         It can be used by breast feeding mothers (starting 6 weeks after childbirth).

·         There are no estrogen associated side effects.

·         Women take 1 pill daily without taking a break.

·         It has reduced risk of side effects such as weight gain and acne in comparison with the combined oral pill e.g. Triphasil or Nordette.

·         It can help prevent disease like benign (non cancerous) breast growths.

WHEN IS THE MINI PILL SUITABLE?

• When women are breastfeeding.
• When women have circulatory concerns. e.g. more mature women, smokers.
• When one wants to avoid the effects of estrogen.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE MINI PILL?

·         If taken according to instructions the mini – pill is about 98% effective.

AREAS OF CONCERN:

·         Women who aren’t breast feeding may encounter side effects like menstrual cycle disturbances (irregular periods), amenorrhea (missed periods), bleeding between periods.

·         Although there are less side effects, the mini – pill is less effective than the combined pill.

·         Less common side effects include headaches and breast tenderness.

·         The mini – pill should be taken at the same time every day. Even taking a pill more than a few hours late increases the risk of pregnancy.

·         The mini – pill does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

THE MINI PILL MAY BE UNSUITABLE IF THE WOMAN:

·         Is already pregnant.

·         Is over 35 years old and is a smoker.

·         Has had a previous thrombosis (blood clot in the vein or artery).

·         Has a heart abnormality or high blood pressure.

·         Has / had severe migraines.

CONSIDERATIONS ABOUT TAKING THE MINI PILL.

• The mini – pill is best suited if a woman is breastfeeding.
• The mini – pill needs to be taken at the same time every day.
• Access to a stock of mini pills is needed in case the current stock of pills runs out.

The Mini Pill is available at all Marie Stopes centres.

For further information nor to make a confidential booking  please call our

Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85