The mini-pill
DESCRIPTION
The mini-pill is a contraceptive pill that contains only progesterone(the other pills contain estrogen and progesterone).
EFFECTIVENESS
It is close to 99% effective if taken very regularly. This method is very effective, particularly for women over 40 years or women who are breastfeeding.
HOW IT WORKS
The mini-pill acts on the cervix by making the cervical mucus less permeable to sperm. It also acts by altering the lining of the uterus(endometrium), making it unsuitable for a fertilized ovum (egg). In a certain number of women, the mini-pill prevents ovulation.
INDICATIONS
The mini-pill is a good contraceptive choice for women who are breastfeeding or those who cannot take a pill containing estrogen.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
All women may use the mini-pill except those who think they may be pregnant or who are experiencing vaginal bleeding of unknown cause.
SIDE EFFECTS
The main side effect associated with taking the mini-pill is irregular periods. Forty percent (40%) of women will have irregular periods; close to 20% will experience spotting (a small amount of vaginal bleeding); and 3% will experience amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods). Irregular periods are less likely to occur in women who are breastfeeding.
HOW DO I TAKE THE MINI-PILL?
- Start within the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle (day one being the first day of your period);
- Use another method of birth control (e.g., a condom) for the first week, if you started taking the mini-pill other than within the first 5 days of your period;
- Take the pill every day of the month (without stopping) at the same time every day (preferably at suppertime);
- In case you forget by more than 3 hours:
-take the missed pill as quickly as possible
-use another method of birth control for at least 48 hours - If you vomit a pill less than an hour after taking it:
-take another pill
-use another method of birth control for at least 48 hours - If you forget to take 2 or more pills: continue using your pack and use another method of birth control for 2 days;
- If you have unprotected sex during the time you forgot to take the pill or during the 5 days before forgetting, consider emergenccy contraception (the morning after pill);
- If you do not have a period for 4 to 6 weeks after forgetting to take the pill, a pregnancy test is recommended.