Birth control and you: the mini pill
THE mini pill, also known as the progestin-only birth control pill, is an oral contraceptive that benefits certain groups of women.
The progestin dose in a mini pill is lower than the progestin dose in a combination oral contraceptive pill and this pill thickens cervical mucus and thins the lining of the uterus, preventing sperm from reaching the egg. The mini pill also sometimes suppresses ovulation.
The progestin-only pill is best for the breastfeeding mother as it has not been reported to affect milk production. The oestrogen in combination birth control pills is known to interfere with milk supply.
The pill is also recommended for women who have certain health problems, such as a high risk of heart disease, blood clots, or a history of high blood pressure or migraines and those concerned about the side effects of birth control pills containing oestrogen.
The mini pill requires much more attention to detail because it has to be taken at the same time every day to be effective. Also, the failure rate of the mini pill in highly fertile women is higher than that of other hormonal contraceptive methods.
There are very few side effects with the mini pill, but it is fairly common to have spot bleeding between periods, and an irregular bleeding pattern, while periods may stop altogether in some women.
Other side effects may include:
*Acne
*Breast tenderness
*Decreased libido
*Depression
*Headache
*Irregular menstrual bleeding
*Nausea
*Ovarian cysts
*Weight gain.
— Some information from the Mayo Clinic.
