What Contraceptive Pill is Right For You and other FAQs

Feb 21, 2023 Combined and Mini Pill Contraceptives

When considering which contraceptive pill is right for you, there are several factors to consider. Your age, lifestyle, any medical conditions and family history could all influence which pill is best for you. It is important to speak to a healthcare professional about effective contraception to suit your needs.

Despite it being a very commonly prescribed and used medication, it’s important to understand the difference between the two. We hope this blog post answers your questions. If you are still unsure about any aspect, speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

 

What is the Most Common Contraceptive Pill in the UK? 

The most common contraceptive pill in the UK is the combined pill. Yasmin and Lucette are examples of the combined pill. The progesterone-only pill is also commonly used and is known as the mini pill. Progesterone-only pills available in the UK include Cerazette, Cerelle and Zelleta.

 

What is the Difference Between the Combined Pill and the Mini Pill?

The combined oral contraceptive is a pill taken by millions of women around the world to stop pregnancy. It can also help with other hormone issues, such as controlling acne, easing period cramps and regulating an irregular cycle. This pill has both oestrogen and progestogen and is taken for 21 days, with a 7-day break. It is usually the first option given as it is widely available, easy to take and usually tolerated well.

The mini pill is a progestogen-only tablet. It is just as effective as the combined pill in preventing pregnancy and is better for women who had oestrogen-based side effects or those who can't take oestrogen products. It does not need a break, it is taken at the same time every day.

It is important to remember that the combined pill and the mini pill work differently. The combined pill contains two hormones, estrogen and progestogen, which stop you from getting pregnant. The mini pill only contains progestogen and works by thickening the mucus in your cervix, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.

 

What is the Difference Between Desogestrel and Lucette? 

Desogestrel and Lucette are two different types of contraceptive pills. Desogestrel is the generic name of a progestogen-only pill that is taken every day and prevents ovulation, while Lucette is a branded combined pill containing both estrogen and progestogen.

 

What is the Difference Between Desogestrel and Cerelle?

Desogestrel and Cerelle are two different names of the same contraceptive. Desogestrel is the generic name and Cerellle is a brand name of the same drug. They are both progestogen only pills that are taken every day to prevent ovulation.

 

Is Zeletta the Same as Cerelle?

Yes, these are two different brands of progestogen only contraceptive pills.

Cerazette, Cerelle, Zelleta are all brands of the generic drug Desogestrel but contain the same level of  active ingredient desogestrel 75mg which is a type of synthetic progestogen.

 

Do You Still Get Periods on Desogestrel?

Periods may still occur while taking Desogestrel, although they may be lighter, more frequent or less frequent than before taking the pill. For some women, periods can stop altogether.

 

What are the Names of Progesterone-only Pills in the UK?

When you take any of the mini-pill tablets, such as Cerazette, Cerelle, Zelleta, and generic Desogestrel you are taking the same thing. All of these progestogen-containing tablets contain the same active ingredient.

 

What if I Can’t Take the Contraceptive Pill?

If you cannot take the contraceptive pill, there are other forms of contraception available to choose from. Hormonal methods such as the contraceptive injection, the implant, and the intrauterine device (IUD) are long-acting and can be reversed, providing effective contraception. Non-hormonal methods are also available.

To find the most suitable form of contraception for you, it is recommended that you consult your doctor or health care professional, who can provide you with additional information and advise you on the best option for your needs. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and discuss any potential side effects associated with the different methods.

It is important to remember that the right contraception for you is the one that best suits your lifestyle and health, and by making an informed decision, you can make sure you are taking the necessary steps to protect yourself.

 

Contraception Sent Directly to You

Our pharmacist is happy to advise on the contraceptive pill and what is most suited to your needs. You can find our contraceptive pill section here. All of our medications are sent discreetly with no mention of pharmacy, no logos and so info about the contents. With Simply Meds Online you can have your contraception and other prescriptions or pharmacy shop items sent directly to your door.

 

What Contraceptive Pill is Right For You? - In Conclusion

Hopefully, the information above on the different types of contraceptive pills will help you understand your choices better.

Not everyone can take the contraceptive pill and if that is the case, other contraceptive methods should be considered. The pill guards against pregnancy but not sexually transmitted conditions and barrier methods should be used. If you aren’t sure what other contraception is right for you visit our sexual health section, speak to your GP surgery or your local sexual health clinic. 

Make sure that you read the instructions that come with your contraceptives fully. With the contraceptive pill, for example, the combined pill and the mini pill are taken differently.