Progestogen Only Pill (POP)
A pill that contains the hormone progestogen, which thickens cervical mucus to stop sperm reaching an egg.
Some POP’s stop ovulation too.
POP is 99% effective if used according to the instructions.
Advantages:
- Can be used if you can’t use oestrogen
- Can be used at any age, but is especially useful if you smoke and are over 35 years
- Can be used if you’re overweight, have migraines or if you have certain medical conditions that prevent you using the combined pill
- Fertility returns immediately once it is stopped, with no long-term effects
- No link to weight gain
- May make periods lighter and less painful
Disadvantages:
- Bleeding may stop or become irregular
- No protection against STI’s
- Must take around the same time each day (12 hours for some, 3 hours for others) for it to remain effective
- May experience temporary side effects including spots, breast tenderness, weight changes or headache.
Comments:
- May not work if have vomiting or severe, long-lasting diarrhoea
- Need to be aware of missed pill guidance and how to access emergency contraception if necessary
- Some medicines may reduce the effectiveness of the pill
Further Information:
https://www.sexwise.org.uk/
