Mini Pill

Progestin-only oral contraceptives, known as the “mini-pill”, are different from birth control pills, which are a combination of oral contraceptives containing both estrogen and progestin hormones. 

The mini-pill or progestin-only pill is a better choice for women with certain health problems – such as blood clots – who cannot take pills with estrogen.  The mini-pill is also a good option for women who are breastfeeding or who have side effects with combination birth control pills. The mini-pill is slightly less effective in preventing pregnancy than combination oral contraceptives (7% pregnancy rate per year for the mini-pill vs. 3% for combination birth control pills).

The most common side effect of the mini-pill is irregular vaginal bleeding, also called breakthrough bleeding. This bleeding is not harmful; continue to take the pill even if bleeding occurs. Less common side effects include headache, breast tenderness, nausea and dizziness.

The mini-pill comes in packs of 28 pills. All the pills contain hormone. To work best, a pill should be taken every single day and at the same time every day.  If you are more than 3 hours late in taking the mini- pill, you should use a backup method of contraception for 48 hours. If you miss a pill, take it as soon as you remember.

For more information about the mini-pill or to determine if this is the right birth control option for you, talk with your Oakdale ObGyn doctor or nurse practitioner