Contraception – POP
The progestogen-only pill (POP), sometimes called the mini pill, is a daily contraceptive pill containing only progestogen, suitable for those who cannot or prefer not to take oestrogen
About contraception – pop
Traditional POPs work mainly by thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, while desogestrel-type POPs also usually stop ovulation. Unlike the combined pill, it can be used by people with certain risk factors, such as smokers over 35, migraine with aura, or a history of blood clots, and is safe while breastfeeding
Treatments
Symptoms
Not a condition with symptoms of its own, but possible side effects include:
• Irregular or unpredictable bleeding, especially in the first few months
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Acne
• Some people have no bleeding at all
Diagnosis
Suitability is assessed via a health questionnaire, focusing on current medicines (some can reduce effectiveness), personal and family history, and any contraindicated conditions, which are fewer than for the combined pill
Treatment
The POP is taken continuously, every day with no pill-free break, and must be taken within a strict window each day (3 hours for traditional POPs, 12 hours for desogestrel-based POPs) to remain effective
Prevention and self-care
• Take the pill at the same time daily and set a reminder
• Know the correct missed-pill window for your specific POP
• Use condoms as back-up if a pill is taken later than the allowed window
• Report persistent irregular bleeding, especially after previously regular bleeding
• Check interactions before starting new medicines, particularly enzyme-inducing drugs
• Review contraceptive choice periodically
Reviewed by Hamza Iqbal Naheed, Superintendent Pharmacist, GPhC 2209194 (check the register) · Last updated 21 September 2026