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Microgynon 30
Microgynon 30 is a contraceptive pill you take every day. It acts as birth control in three ways: it stops ovulation, increases the make-up of the cervical mucus, and prevents the growth of the womb lining. It also keeps periods lighter and regular, and less painful. It contains ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel, and your suitability will be checked during your consultation.
- Microgynon 30 is for female use only
- Combined oral contraceptive pill
Contraceptive pills can be used to prevent pregnancy, and when taken correctly is 99% effective. However, many women also choose to take them to regulate their period, help with heavy periods, reduce period pain, and reduce acne.
Most contraceptive pills can are taken for 21 days with a seven-day break, where there is often a breakthrough bleed, which usually appears as a period and is normal.
Other combined contraceptive pills are taken for 28 days without a break. These can often stop regular menstruation from occurring or can help to lighten heavy periods.
Before taking oral contraceptive pills, it is important to measure your weight, as well as take readings of your blood pressure, as these can affect which pill is best for you. You can purchase home blood pressure kits or visit a local pharmacy to get a free blood pressure check. You will also be asked questions regarding your health history, including migraines, smoking, a family history of stroke or heart attack, and breast cancer.
There is always a risk of side effects with all medications, including contraceptive pills. Some of these can be quite mild and can subside over time. Others are more serious and should be reported to your GP right away if you experience any side effects. Please contact a member of our team if you are concerned about any potential side effects that may occur when taking oral contraceptives.
Common side effects of Microgynon 30 contraceptive pills include:
- Spotting in the first few months
- Headaches
- Mood changes
- Weight changes
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in libido
There are some serious side effects associated with taking oral contraceptives such as the Microgynon 30 combined contraceptive pill. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Changes to the breast such as discolouration around the nipple or lumps
- Discomfort and bleeding after sex
Combined pills such as Microgynon 30 slightly increase the risk of blood clots in the veins and arteries. Get urgent medical help (call 999 or go to A&E) if you notice possible signs of a blood clot, such as:
- Swelling or pain in one leg or foot, especially with warmth, redness or tenderness (signs of a blood clot in the leg)
- Sudden unexplained breathlessness or fast breathing, a sudden cough which may bring up blood, or sharp chest pain (signs of a blood clot in the lung)
- Chest pain, pressure or heaviness, or discomfort spreading to the back, jaw, throat, arm or stomach (signs of a heart attack)
- Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion or trouble speaking, sudden trouble seeing, or a sudden, severe or long-lasting headache (signs of a stroke)
Out of 10,000 women using Microgynon 30, about 5 to 7 will develop a blood clot in a year, compared with about 2 out of 10,000 women who are not using a combined hormonal contraceptive and are not pregnant.
What should I do if I miss a dose of the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill?
If you miss a dose of the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill, you should take it as soon as you remember. If you take it within 12 hours of your usual time, you are still protected from pregnancy. If you are more than 12 hours late, take only the most recent missed pill, leave out any earlier missed pills, and use extra protection such as condoms for the next 7 days while you take the next 7 pills. Your patient information leaflet explains what to do if those 7 days run past the end of your pack.
When should I start taking the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill?
Begin taking the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill on the first day of your period, and you will be protected from pregnancy straight away. If you start on any other day, you will need to use other methods of protection like condoms for the first 7 days.
Can I use the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill when breastfeeding?
If you are breastfeeding, Microgynon 30 is usually not advised, as combined pills can reduce the amount of breast milk. A progestogen-only pill may be more suitable. Speak to a member of the team about the options available to you.
Can the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill cause breast cancer?
Some types of the pill have been linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. If you have a family history of breast cancer, our dedicated team can help you choose a contraceptive option that is appropriate for you.
Does the Microgynon 30 contraceptive pill cause weight gain?
Side effects differ from person to person when using oral contraceptives. Weight gain may occur but can be managed with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Will Microgynon 30 combined pill affect my fertility?
Normal fertility resumes as soon as you stop taking the Microgynon 30 combined pill.
Leaflets
Before taking any medicines such as the Microgynon 30 combined contraceptive pill, regardless of whether they are over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.
