Progestogen-only pill: Difference between revisions
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== Progestogen-only Pill == | |||
== Mechanism of | The '''progestogen-only pill''' (POP), also known as the '''mini-pill''', is a type of [[oral contraceptive]] that contains only [[progestogen]] hormones, unlike the [[combined oral contraceptive pill]] which contains both [[estrogen]] and progestogen. The primary function of the progestogen-only pill is to prevent [[pregnancy]] by altering the cervical mucus and the endometrial lining, and in some cases, suppressing [[ovulation]]. | ||
The progestogen-only pill works primarily by thickening the [[cervical mucus]] to | |||
[[File:Progesterone.svg|Progesterone structure|thumb|right]] | |||
== Mechanism of Action == | |||
The progestogen-only pill works primarily by thickening the [[cervical mucus]], which acts as a barrier to [[sperm]] penetration. This change in the cervical mucus is the main mechanism by which the POP prevents pregnancy. Additionally, the progestogen-only pill alters the [[endometrium]] (the lining of the [[uterus]]), making it less suitable for [[implantation]] of a fertilized [[egg]]. In some women, the progestogen-only pill also suppresses [[ovulation]], although this is not its primary mechanism of action. | |||
== Types of Progestogen == | |||
There are several types of progestogens used in progestogen-only pills, including [[norethisterone]], [[levonorgestrel]], and [[desogestrel]]. Each of these progestogens has slightly different properties and may be chosen based on individual health needs and side effect profiles. | |||
[[File:Norgestrel_Structure.svg|Norgestrel structure|thumb|left]] | |||
== Usage and Administration == | |||
The progestogen-only pill is taken orally, once a day, at the same time each day. Consistency in timing is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness. Unlike the combined pill, there is no "pill-free" week, and the POP must be taken continuously. | |||
== Effectiveness == | == Effectiveness == | ||
== Side | When taken correctly, the progestogen-only pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, typical use, which may include missed pills or taking the pill at varying times, reduces its effectiveness to about 91%. | ||
Common side effects of the progestogen-only pill include | |||
== Side Effects == | |||
Common side effects of the progestogen-only pill include irregular menstrual bleeding, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood changes. Some women may experience no periods at all, while others may have more frequent or prolonged bleeding. | |||
== | == Advantages and Disadvantages == | ||
== Advantages | === Advantages === | ||
* Suitable for women who cannot take estrogen. | |||
* Can be used during [[breastfeeding]]. | |||
* Lower risk of [[thrombosis]] compared to combined pills. | |||
=== Disadvantages === | |||
* Requires strict adherence to daily timing. | |||
* May cause irregular bleeding patterns. | |||
* Does not protect against [[sexually transmitted infections]] (STIs). | |||
== Related Pages == | |||
* [[Combined oral contraceptive pill]] | * [[Combined oral contraceptive pill]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Contraception]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Hormonal contraception]] | ||
* [[Family planning]] | |||
* [[ | |||
[[Category:Contraception]] | [[Category:Contraception]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Hormonal contraception]] | ||
Latest revision as of 11:11, 23 March 2025
Progestogen-only Pill[edit]
The progestogen-only pill (POP), also known as the mini-pill, is a type of oral contraceptive that contains only progestogen hormones, unlike the combined oral contraceptive pill which contains both estrogen and progestogen. The primary function of the progestogen-only pill is to prevent pregnancy by altering the cervical mucus and the endometrial lining, and in some cases, suppressing ovulation.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
The progestogen-only pill works primarily by thickening the cervical mucus, which acts as a barrier to sperm penetration. This change in the cervical mucus is the main mechanism by which the POP prevents pregnancy. Additionally, the progestogen-only pill alters the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), making it less suitable for implantation of a fertilized egg. In some women, the progestogen-only pill also suppresses ovulation, although this is not its primary mechanism of action.
Types of Progestogen[edit]
There are several types of progestogens used in progestogen-only pills, including norethisterone, levonorgestrel, and desogestrel. Each of these progestogens has slightly different properties and may be chosen based on individual health needs and side effect profiles.
Usage and Administration[edit]
The progestogen-only pill is taken orally, once a day, at the same time each day. Consistency in timing is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness. Unlike the combined pill, there is no "pill-free" week, and the POP must be taken continuously.
Effectiveness[edit]
When taken correctly, the progestogen-only pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, typical use, which may include missed pills or taking the pill at varying times, reduces its effectiveness to about 91%.
Side Effects[edit]
Common side effects of the progestogen-only pill include irregular menstrual bleeding, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood changes. Some women may experience no periods at all, while others may have more frequent or prolonged bleeding.
Advantages and Disadvantages[edit]
Advantages[edit]
- Suitable for women who cannot take estrogen.
- Can be used during breastfeeding.
- Lower risk of thrombosis compared to combined pills.
Disadvantages[edit]
- Requires strict adherence to daily timing.
- May cause irregular bleeding patterns.
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
