Progestogen Only Pill

The progestogen-only pill is sometimes called the mini-pill or POP. It contains the hormone progestogen but doesn't contain oestrogen. The progestogen-only pill has to be taken every day within a specific three-hour period.

The POP thickens the mucus in the cervix, which stops sperm getting to an egg. It also thins the lining of the womb so that an egg can't implant itself there. In some women, it stops ovulation

If taken correctly, it can be 99% effective. This means that one woman in 100 who use the POP will get pregnant in one year.

• You must take it at the same time each day. If you take it more than three hours late (or 12 hours late if you take Cerazette), it may not be effective.
• If you’re sick or have severe diarrhoea, the POP may not work. Some medicines may affect the POP's effectiveness. Ask your doctor for details.
• Your periods may stop or become lighter, irregular or more frequent.
• Side effects may include spotty skin and breast tenderness. These should clear up within a few months.

By using condoms as well as the POP, is the only way to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).