Progestin-Only Birth Control Pills

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WHAT ARE PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS?

Progestin-only birth control pills, sometimes called the “mini-pill,” are a kind of birth control you take at the exact same time every day to prevent unintended pregnancy.

These pills are different from the regular combination pills because they only contain synthetic progesterone (progestin) and no estrogen. If you’re breastfeeding/chestfeeding, you don’t have to worry about your milk supply dropping because this pill doesn’t have any estrogen.

As a bonus, it can also make your periods less painful if they’re heavy or crampy. Double win!

WHAT KIND OF PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS ARE THERE?

In the U.S., you’ve got a lot of options when it comes to birth control pills. They typically differ in the specific types and amounts of progestin they contain and their packaging. Here are some common types of progestin-only birth control pills:

The FDA recently approved the “Opill,” which will be available over the counter in 2024.

TRADITIONAL PROGESTIN-ONLY PILLS (POPs):
These are the standard progestin-only birth control pills that you take orally. It’s important to take them at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness.
PROGESTIN-ONLY MINI PILLS:
These are similar to traditional POPs but contain a lower dose of progestin. They are often recommended for people who may be more sensitive to hormones or for breastfeeding mothers.
CONTINUIOUS PROGESTIN-ONLY PILLS:
These pills are taken continuously without a break, so you don’t have a monthly period.

The choice of which progestin-only birth control pill is best for an individual depends on their specific needs, medical history, and potential side effects. It’s a good idea to chat with a healthcare provider. They’ll help you figure out what is right for you based on your needs, health, and what you prefer.

It’s important to follow their guidance and take the pills as directed for maximum effectiveness. To see a list of the brands we cover through our telehealth partner Twentyeight health click here.

HOW DO PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS WORK?

HALTING EGG RELEASE
Sometimes, progestin stops egg release (ovulation), but it does not do so consistently. About 4 in 10 who use progestin-only pills will still continue to ovulate.
THINS UTERINE LINING
The progestin-only pill will thin the lining of the uterus which makes it less suitable for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
THICKENS CERVICAL MUCUS
The progestin-only pill makes the cervical mucus thick. This mucus barrier makes it really hard for sperm to swim up and meet an egg.

HOW DO YOU USE PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS?

If you are looking to get birth control pills, the first thing you’ll need to do is schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider that prescribes birth control pills.

Typically, the pills come in packs of 28 and should be taken once a day at the same time each day. One type of progestin-only pill comes with 24 active pills (with progestin) and four inactive pills (with no progestin) in each pack.

If you have trouble remembering pills, use an alarm or a smartphone app to remind you.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about the specific pill you’re prescribed. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any changes in your health or medications, as they can affect the pill’s effectiveness.

NOT SURE WHAT TO DO IF YOU MISSED A DOSE OR DOSES?

Check out this guide from the CDC.

When it comes to birth control, there are pros and cons for each method, and remember, everyone’s body is unique, so what works for you might not be the same for your friends. The pill has been around for more than 50 years, and millions of people have used it safely. But, it’s a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider. They’ll help you figure out if it’s right for you based on your needs, health, and what you prefer.

POSSIBLE BENEFITS OF PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS

HEALTH BENEFITS
They come with a lower risk of certain conditions like ovarian cysts and endometrial cancer.
HEALTH CONDITION FRIENDLY
If you have certain health conditions like high blood pressure or a history of heart problems, mini-pills could be your go-to because they’re estrogen-free.
MEDICATION COMPATIBILITY
Mini-pills usually play nice with other meds. They’re less likely to have awkward interactions with other stuff you might be taking. Definitely talk to your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking because there are a few medications that can interfere with, such as rifampin, some seizure medications, and some HIV medications.
NO ESTROGEN, NO PROBLEM
A good option for those avoiding estrogen-based methods, including breastfeeding/chestfeeding parents.

POSSIBLE DOWNSIDES OF PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS

NO ROOM FOR ERROR
Progestin-only pills don’t cut you much slack. Missing a dose or taking it late can up your risk of getting pregnant, so they demand precision.
PERIOD SURPRISES
Progestin-only pills can throw your periods for a loop. They might make them irregular, lighter, or even vanish altogether. Some people like it, while others don’t.
STARTING OUT SIDE EFFECTS
Like any medication, mini-pills can come with side effects for some individuals, such as spotting, tender breasts, or changes in your skin or hair. These side effects vary from person to person and may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

STRICT SCHEDULE
Progestin-only pills are like that friend who’s always punctual – you’ve got to take them at the exact same time every day. If you’re not great with schedules, they might not be your best option.

DO PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS WORK FOR STI/STD PREVENTION?

When used correctly, birth control pills are super effective but it’s important to remember that they don’t protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To reduce the risk of getting or spreading STIs, it’s a good idea to use condoms every time you have sex, even if you have are on the birth control pill. We offer condoms mailed directly to anyone who is 18+ and lives or goes to school in our service area. Click here to request free condoms.

HOW CAN I GET FREE PROGESTIN-ONLY BIRTH CONTROL PILLS?

If you live or go to school in our 18-county service area and are looking for a birth control method, you can give us a call at 423-265-7837 or fill out our intake form and start the process yourself. If you want to speak with one of our Health Educators on the phone or if you’d like for us to call you back on a certain day to schedule an appointment for birth control, you can fill out the request form linked here, and we will call you back on your preferred date.