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Minipilleri

The mini pill is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill that helps prevent pregnancy.

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Tohtori J. Vázquez

Tohtori J. Vázquez

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Tohtori Josefina Vázquez on kokenut lääkäri, jolla on yli kolmen vuoden kokemus päivystyslääketieteestä, elvytyksestä ja erikoiskuljetuksista.

Mini Pill

What Is the Mini Pill?

The mini pill, also known as the progestogen-only pill (POP), is a type of hormonal contraception that contains only progestogen, unlike the combination pill, which also contains oestrogen.

The mini pill works by:

  • Thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
  • Thinning the uterine lining to reduce the chances of implantation.
  • In some cases, preventing ovulation (though not always).

Because it does not contain oestrogen, the mini pill is often recommended for women who cannot take oestrogen-based contraceptives, such as those with a history of blood clots, high blood pressure, or migraines with aura.

Who is the Mini Pill suitable for?

The mini pill may be a good choice if you:

  • Cannot take oestrogen due to health reasons.
  • Are over 35 and smoke.
  • Are breastfeeding, as it does not affect milk production.
  • Want a reliable form of contraception that does not require a break.

However, it may not be suitable if you:

  • Have difficulty remembering to take a pill at the same time every day (as the mini pill must be taken within a strict time frame).
  • Have certain medical conditions affecting the liver or a history of breast cancer.

How does it work, and what are the options?

The mini pill is taken every day without a break. Unlike the combination pill, there is no placebo pill or pill-free week.

There are two types of mini pills:

  • Traditional progestogen-only pills – Must be taken within 3 hours of the same time every day.
  • Desogestrel mini pill – A newer version that can be taken within 12 hours of the same time daily and is more likely to stop ovulation.

Other contraceptive options include the combination pill, ehkäisyrengas, or an IUD (coil).

  • Over 99% effective if taken correctly.
  • Safe for breastfeeding mothers.
  • Can be used by women who cannot take oestrogen.
  • No increased risk of blood clots, unlike the combination pill.
  • No pill-free break – you take it every day continuously.
  • Periods may become irregular or even stop completely.
  • It does not protect against STIs – use condoms for STI protection.
  • Fertility returns quickly after stopping the mini pill.

Usein kysytyt kysymykset

Get answers to common questions about Mini Pill

  • If you take a traditional mini pill, you have a 3-hour window to take it after the usual time.
  • If you take a desogestrel mini pill, you have a 12-hour window.
  • If you miss this timeframe, take the next pill as soon as possible and use extra contraception (e.g. condoms) for the next 2 days.
  • If you start on the first day of your period, you are protected immediately.
  • If you start at any other time, use extra contraception for the first 2 days.
Yes! The mini pill is safe for breastfeeding mothers and does not affect milk supply.
Some women experience spotting (irregular bleeding), headaches, breast tenderness, or mood changes, but these often improve over time.
Not always. Some mini pills only work by thickening cervical mucus, but the desogestrel mini pill is more likely to stop ovulation.

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