The progestogen-only pill, sometimes referred to as the mini pill, is a type of hormonal contraception. Progestogen is a hormone that works in a similar way to progesterone. The progestogen-only pill prevents pregnancy by stopping the ovaries releasing an egg each month. It’s over 99% effective if you use it correctly all the time. If not used correctly, for example missing a pill, it’s less effective. When you stop taking the progestogen-only pill, it usually takes about 1 month for your chance of getting pregnant to return to how it was before.

The progestogen-only pill has few side effects. It can affect periods in different ways: your periods may be lighter, more frequent or may stop altogether. You may get some bleeding (spotting) between periods. Some people report acne, mood swings, weight gain or changes to sex drive (libido). 

The progestogen-only pill may help with painful or heavy periods and endometriosis.

You can find out more about the progestogen pill here

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