Birth Control Method
Hormonal
Description
Mini-pills are birth control pills that contain only one hormone, a progestin. They work by thickening the cervical mucus so sperm cannot reach the egg, and by making the lining of the uterus thinner. Sometimes they stop ovulation (the release of an egg).
How It Works
Like other birth control pills, mini-pills must be taken every day, at about the same time of day. You cannot miss pills or you may have a higher risk of unwanted pregnancy.
Should You Use It?
Mini-pills are great for women who want to take an oral contraceptive, but have experienced unpleasant side effects from oral-combination contraceptives. However, menstrual irregularity is the most common problem with mini-pills. While there is less blood loss, bleeding may be at irregular intervals and there may be spotting between periods.
Effectiveness
Among typical couples who use progestin-only pills, about 5% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year, mostly because some women do not take their pills correctly. But if these pills are used consistently and correctly, just one in 200 women will become pregnant.
STI Protection
The mini-pill does not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.
Advantages
- No estrogen side effects -- can be taken by women who have had side effects or complications from estrogen-containing pills.
- The amount of progestin in mini-pills is less than in combined oral contraceptives.
- Mini-pills are easier to take: you take exactly the same kind of pill every single day.
- Mini-pills tend to make periods short and light -- you may go several months with no bleeding at all.
- Nursing mothers can take progestin-only pills, preferably after the baby is six weeks old.
Disadvantages
- Some women may experience irregular bleeding and menstrual periods.
- Some women experience weight gain and breast tenderness; use of the mini-pill offers less protection against ectopic pregnancy.
- You have to remember to take a pill at the same time every single day.
- You cannot "skip a period" as is possible with combined birth control pills.
- The failure rate with mini-pills is a bit higher than with combined birth control pills.
- Progestin-only pills do not protect you from HIV or other infections.
Where to Buy It
In the United States, mini-pills require a prescription. You can get pills from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department or family planning clinic.
Follow Up
Consult your doctor for complete information on potential side effects.
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