The mini pill works by making it difficult for the sperm to swim and get to the egg. When you take the mini pill a tiny amount of hormones (progestogen) are released. This creates a sticky mucus inside your uterus. The mucus acts like a barrier to stop the sperm from swimming through the opening of your uterus (cervix), the tunnel to get to the egg. If the sperm can’t reach the egg, then you can’t get pregnant.
Unlike the combined pill, your pack only contains one type of pill. All 28 pills in your pack contain hormones – there is no hormone-free week.
Taking the mini pill is easy. Pop one pill from your pack each day and swallow it with a glass of water. You must take the mini pill within the same three-hour window each day for it to be effective. It is best to take it at the same time each day, so you can create a habit of taking it regularly.
Your body will continue with its normal cycle, so you will most likely get your period during the time it is due.
Remembering to take your pill each day can be difficult to start with. If you are taking the combined pill, it is best to make it a habit to take it at the same time each day. If you are taking the mini pill, you need to take it within the same three hours each day.
If you forget to take your pill it’s okay. As soon as you remember, take your pill as normal.
You won’t need to use another form of contraception if you take your pill within the 3-hour window (from when you should have taken it). The effectiveness of the pill won’t decrease.
If it has been over 3 hours (from the time you should have taken it), still take your pill, but you will need to use another method of contraception for the next 7 days.
Taking the mini pill may change your period. It might become lighter, shorter, or irregular. Your period will come during the normal time of your cycle. You may also experience spotting between your periods. Unlike the combined pill, you can’t choose whether to or when to get your period.
You can have sex as soon as you feel ready after starting on the mini pill. But depending on where you are in your cycle you may need to use contraception for a little longer.
If you take the mini pill within the first 5 days of your period, you are protected straight away.
If you start the mini pill at any other time during your cycle, you are not protected for the first 7 days. Use another form of contraception for the first week will help prevent pregnancy.
As soon as you stop taking the mini pill, or if you don’t take it within the three-hour window, you’re no longer protected.
The mini pill is a great form of contraception, but it doesn’t protect you from STIs. Only condoms can protect against STI’s.
It is safe to take the pill or mini pill at any time. Once you decide the pill is no longer for you, whatever the reason may be, you can stop taking it straight away. Remember that you will no longer be protected once you miss a day.
Your fertility will return to normal almost immediately once you stop taking the mini pill. Your body will continue on its normal cycle, so you will get your next period when it is due. Remember that you will no longer be protected once you miss a day.
Reach out online or call 0800 226 784 to speak to one of our nurses. We are here to support you every step of the way. This is your journey.
