The mini pill, also known as the progestin-only pill (POP), is a type of oral contraceptive that contains only one hormone — progestin.
How does the mini pill work?
The mini pill works by thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus, so even if an egg is fertilized, it won’t be able to implant and grow.
Progestin also suppresses ovulation in about half of the people who take the mini pill, although it doesn’t work as consistently as combination birth control pills.
Pros and Cons of the Mini Pill
Like all forms of birth control, the mini pill has its pluses and minuses.
Pros
- The mini pill is a good option for people who can’t take estrogen, such as those who are breastfeeding or have a history of blood clots or stroke.
- The mini pill has a lower risk of side effects compared to combination birth control pills because it contains only one hormone.
- The mini pill is highly effective when taken correctly.
- The mini pill may reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer
Cons
- Unlike combination birth control pills, the mini pill must be taken at the same time every day to be effective. People who struggle with taking medication on time may have trouble with this requirement.
- The mini pill is not as effective as combination birth control pills at preventing pregnancy.
- The unpredictable bleeding patterns associated with mini pills cause some people to stop taking them.
- The mini pill may cause side effects like weight gain, acne, and mood changes.
How to Use the Mini Pill
The mini pill works best when taken at the same time every day, so it’s important to choose a time that will be easy to remember and stick to it.
If you are more than three hours late taking the pill, you should use a back up method of contraception, such as condoms, for the next two days.
Unlike combination birth control pills, the mini pill does not require a week-long break between packs. You can start taking the mini pill at any time, although if you start it during your period, you’ll be protected from pregnancy immediately.
If you start it at any other time during your cycle, you’ll need to use a back-up method of contraception, such as condoms, for the first two days.
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The ultimate guide to the mini pill
Possible Side Effects of the Mini Pill
The mini pill can cause some side effects. The most common side effect is irregular bleeding. Many people will experience irregular periods or spotting for the first few months of taking the mini pill. This side effect usually goes away within six months.
Other possible side effects of the mini pill include:.
- headaches
- nausea
- breast tenderness
- mood changes
- decreased libido
- acne
- weight gain
- hair loss or growth
If you experience severe side effects or if side effects persist for more than a few months, talk to your healthcare provider about other contraceptive options.
Effectiveness of the Mini Pill
The mini pill is about 91% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken as directed. This means that out of 100 people who use the mini pill for a year, about nine will become pregnant.
However, the mini pill is only effective if you take it at the same time every day. If you miss pills or take them at inconsistent times, the effectiveness of the mini pill decreases.
Final Thoughts
The mini pill is a good birth control option for people who can’t take estrogen or who prefer a progestin-only method. However, because the mini pill requires strict adherence to a daily schedule, it may not be the best choice for everyone.
If you’re interested in using the mini pill as your birth control, talk to your healthcare provider to find out if it’s right for you.
