Progestogen-only preparations are:
- Progestogen-only pills (mini-pills)
- Injections
- Subdermal implants
- Hormone-releasing intrauterine system
Progestogen-only contraceptive methods are safe,
- if the woman is a breast-feeding mother.
- if the woman is older.
- if the woman has cardiovascular risk factors.
- if the woman has diabetes.
How do progestogen-only preparations act?
Progestogen hormones act on the cervix and the endometrium. They change the cervical secretions making the cervix hostile to moving sperms from the vagina. These hormones inhibit the development of the endometrium, thereby preventing implantation and sperm movement. Higher dose preparations can inhibit ovulation too.
Adverse effects of progestogen-only contraceptive methods
The common side effects include:
- Breast pain
- Pimples (acne)
- Functional ovarian cysts
- Absent menstrual cycles
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Headache
Related Links:
What is birth control?
Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCP)
Have you missed your combined oral contraceptive pill?
Combined hormonal patches
Progestogen-only pill (Mini-pill/POP)
Progestogen injections
Subdermal Implants
