The mini pill - a trusted contraceptive
Will the mini-pill provide full protection against pregnancy?
Clinical studies show that this is a more effective contraceptive than condoms and is on par with the coil (IUD), although often considered more convenient to obtain and use. Cerazette is one of the most popular types available and has a failure rate of approximately 1% per year. This guideline applies only to women who use it correctly - taking the tablet at roughly the same time every day.
Who can take the mini-pill?
Although generally well tolerated by the majority of users, it is not the best option for everyone. Women should consult with their doctor or healthcare provider before taking it if they are affected by undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, severe artery disease, liver tumours or porphyria. It may also be avoided if a woman has a history of breast cancer.
How does the mini-pill work?
It works slightly differently to the combined pill, as it does not contain oestrogen. Most mini-pills work by thickening the cervical mucus so that the sperm cannot enter and making the womb inhospitable to a fertilised egg, however some types may also prevent ovulation, which makes them as effective as the combined pill at preventing pregnancy.
Are there any side effects?
It is often prescribed to women who suffer from severe side effects when taking the combined pill. As it only contains progestogen the risk of side effects is lowered and those that do occur are likely to be milder and less long-lasting. Some of the most common side effects include nausea, headache, weight gain and irregular periods.
How do you take it?
It is administered as a 28 day tablet pack, and unlike some combined pills, all the tablets within a pack contain equal levels of progestogen. A tablet must be taken at the same time every day. If you miss one or more tablets you may not be fully protected against pregnancy. Always read the patient leaflet before you start taking contraception.
Can you order the mini pill online?
You can place a discreet order at 121doc and, on a doctor's approval, receive your medication within 24 hours. There's no doctor's appointment or trip to the pharmacy; if your order is approved your course of tablets will be delivered to your chosen address using a free next day delivery service.
FAQs
Our online consultations are in the format of short medical questionnaires. You will be asked general questions about your health and medical history, as well as specific medical questions relevant to the treatment you have chosen. We will also ask you for your payment and delivery details to complete the order.
Online consultations take no longer than 5 minutes to complete. All questions are necessary when issuing prescription medicines. It means that our doctors can make sure the treatment is safe and right for you.