Learn about Progestin-containing birth control pills

Progestin-containing birth control pills are a good option for women who want to avoid pregnancy while breastfeeding or can't take estrogen for some other reason.

Normally, there are two types of hormonal birth control pills for women: estrogen and progestin (progestin is a synthetic form of progesterone).
Progestin-containing birth control pills (abbreviated as POP - progestin only pill) are also known as mini-pill. Presumptions about the contraceptive mechanism of progestins may include spermicide, inhibition of ovulation, endometrial atrophy, and thickening of the cervical mucus to prevent sperm passage.
Progestins are similar to combined oral contraceptives that need to be taken every day, but progestin doesn't require a placebo ie there is no hormone-free period. Progestin tablets contain norethindrone but many countries also use other progestins such as levonorgestrel (LNG), desogestrel (DSG)...

No birth control method is perfect, even when used correctly. About 2 to 3 women out of every 100 who use the progestin-only pill correctly can still get pregnant. This pregnancy risk is the same with most conventional birth control pills.
With progestin-only pills, it is very important to take them at the same time every day. If you don't take it at the same time every day, the risk of pregnancy increases. Remember that both oral contraceptives are more effective than using condoms alone.

3.1. Pros of Progestin-Only Pills Progestin-only pills are better than regular birth control pills if used during breastfeeding because they won't affect milk production. (estrogen reduces milk quality and quantity).

It is also safer than regular birth control pills in certain situations such as in women over 35 years of age, those who smoke, have high blood pressure, are obese and have a history of blood clotting problems.
Conventional birth control pills give some women a lot of stomach upset or headaches. Meanwhile, birth control pills containing progestin usually do not cause these side effects.
3.2. Disadvantages of progestin-only contraceptives Disadvantages of progestin-only birth control pills are:
Must be taken continuously every day, without days off, and especially at the same time of day. If you forget to take a pill one day, you must use a second method of contraception for the rest of that cycle (until the next menstrual period). It is not possible to take 2 pills the next day like a regular oral contraceptive.
Like other birth control pills, progestin pills must be taken one month before to be effective. Therefore, during the first month, it is necessary to use additional methods of contraception such as condoms.
Irregular menstrual cycle: There may be light bleeding between periods for the first few months when you start taking progestin pills. This can be uncomfortable but poses no health risk. This symptom may stop after taking the drug for several months. If heavy bleeding worries you, talk to your doctor.
Make you feel hungry: A common effect of the progestin pill is to make you feel hungry, which can lead to weight gain. This side effect should go away when you stop taking the medicine.
Nausea: A slight feeling of nausea may occur when starting the medication. However, nausea usually goes away on its own after a short while. One solution to limit this side effect is to take the medicine with food or at bedtime. See your doctor if nausea is severe or persistent.
Erection of breasts : Oral contraceptives can make breasts bigger or harder. This condition will usually improve after taking the medicine for a few weeks. However, if you notice lumps or pain that doesn't go away, you should see your doctor.
Headache: This side effect may go away after a while of using the drug, however, you should see your doctor if you notice other types of headaches.
Weight gain: Studies have not shown that taking birth control pills causes weight change, but some women experience more water retention, especially in the chest and hip area.
Mood swings: Some women experience depression or other emotional changes while taking progestin-containing birth control pills. Therefore, you need to contact your doctor if you notice a change in your mood while taking the drug.
Decreased libido: Due to the presence of hormones, the drug can affect libido. However, if the condition persists or causes discomfort, let your doctor know.
Vaginal discharge: Some women may notice changes in vaginal discharge such as an increase or decrease. Tell your doctor if you are concerned you have vaginitis.
Like other birth control pills, progestin pills cannot prevent sexually transmitted diseases.