What is the progestogen-only pill?
The POP or mini pill, unlike the combined pill contains only one hormone – progestogen. It works by acting on the cervical mucus, encouraging it to form a thick barrier to stop sperm entering the womb, and makes the lining of the womb thinner, to prevent it accepting a fertilised egg. Good for women who are breast feeding, older women, smokers and those who can’t use the combined pill. It can also help with PMS and painful periods. It has to be taken at the same time each day, or at least within three hours of that time. It is not reliable if taken over three hours late or if you have any vomiting and diarrhoea, in which case extra precautions will be required on the advice of your doctor. It can cause irregular bleeding, or periods may cease altogether during the time you take it. The POP offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections and HIV. If taken correctly the progestogen-only pill is 98% effective.
