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THE PROGESTOGEN

-ONLY PILL

HOW DO I TAKE THE PROGESTOGEN-ONLY PILL?

There are 2 different types of progestogen-only pill. Both types have 28 pills in a pack and one pill should be taken each day, without a break between packs of pills. However, the time you take the pill differs:

3-hour progestogen-only pill
(Traditional progestogen-only pill) – Must be taken within 3 hours of the same time each day.
12-hour progestogen-only pill
(Desogestrel progestogen-only pill) – Must be taken within 12 hours of the same time each day.

Follow the instructions that come with your packet. If you have any questions, ask a doctor, nurse or pharmacist. It's important to take the pills as instructed, because missing pills or taking them at the same time as certain medicines may make them less effective.

HOW DO I GET THE MINI PILL?
The mini pill can be prescribed to you free of charge by a doctor or nurse or you can purchase it yourself.

When you first start the progestogen-only pill you will usually be given a three-month supply. Follow up appointments and reviews are then usually every 6-12 months providing there are no issues.
WHERE CAN I GET THE PROGESTOGEN ONLY PILL?
You can get contraception for free, even if you're under 16, from:
Contraception clinics
Sexual health clinics
Some GP surgeries
Some young people's services
Pharmacies
You can also purchase the mini pill at a pharmacy after speaking to a pharmacist or from an online pharmacy after filling out an online questionnaire.

PREPARING FOR YOUR GP APPOINTMENT

TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR

Get the information you need for an informed discussion with your doctor.

LEARN MORE

PP-UN-WHC-GB-0299 July 2025