What is a progestin-only contraceptive?
A progestin-only contraceptive is one kind of birth control pill. It is often called the “mini-pill.” Regular birth control pills have two female hormones: estrogen and progesterone. The mini-pill has only progesterone in it. Because this pill doesn’t contain estrogen, it may not have as many side effects. (Progestin and progesterone are the same hormone.) How does the progestin-only contraceptive work? This contraceptive does three things. First, like regular birth control pills, the progestin-only pill makes your body “think” that you are pregnant and stops your ovary from releasing an egg. Second, the mini-pill causes changes in your uterus. (The uterus is where a baby grows.) Because of the changes caused by progestin, your uterus is less likely to let a pregnancy get started even if an egg is released. And third, the progestin-only pill thickens the mucus between your uterus and your vagina. (The vagina is the passageway from the uterus to the outside of the body.) Sperm have a ha
