Contraception treatment Microgynon
What is Microgynon?
Microgynon 30 is a combined oral contraceptive pill, commonly referred to as 'the Pill,' designed to prevent pregnancy. This contraceptive contains two key female sex hormones: ethinylestradiol (oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (progestogen).
These hormones work together in three ways to prevent pregnancy:
Preventing ovulation: Microgynon 30 inhibits the release of an egg from the ovaries, reducing the chance of fertilisation.
Thickening cervical mucus: It enhances the thickness of cervical mucus, creating a barrier that makes it challenging for sperm to enter the womb.
Inhibiting womb lining thickening: Microgynon 30 prevents the thickening of the womb lining, making it harder for an egg to implant and grow.
Microgynon 30 follows a 21-day pill regimen, requiring daily intake for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break where no pills are taken.
What is Microgynon used to treat?
Microgynon 30 is an oral contraceptive pill containing levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol. It prevents pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Each box includes three strips of 21 tablets – a three-month supply.
Who can and cannot take medicines containing Microgynon?
Microgynon 30 is suitable for most healthy women, but it's important to consider individual health conditions. Before starting the pill:
your doctor will assess your medical and family history, check blood pressure, and confirm non-pregnancy
regular check-ups, cervical smear tests, and breast examinations are recommended while using the pill
Inform your doctor if you plan to undergo surgery, as the pill may need to be temporarily stopped to reduce the risk of blood clots
Microgynon 30 should not be used if you have any of the following conditions:
history of blood clots in legs, lungs, or other organs
disorders affecting blood clotting (protein C deficiency, protein S deficiency, antithrombin-III deficiency, Factor V Leiden, or antiphospholipid antibodies)
history of heart attack, stroke, angina pectoris, or transient ischaemic attack
diseases increasing the risk of clot in arteries, severe diabetes, very high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, hyperhomocysteinaemia
history of 'migraine with aura,' breast cancer, severe liver disease, liver tumours, or allergy to Microgynon 30 ingredients
use of certain medications to treat hepatitis C
Contact your doctor if:
you experience symptoms of angioedema (swelling of face, tongue, and/or throat)
you have Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, lupus, haemolytic uraemic syndrome, sickle cell anaemia, pancreatitis, or elevated fat levels in the blood
you undergo surgery or are off your feet for an extended period
you've recently given birth
you have inflammation in veins, varicose veins, diabetes, heart or circulation issues, blood clotting problems, porphyria, obesity, migraines, or any condition worsened during pregnancy or previous pill use
Using Microgynon 30 increases the risk of blood clots in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis). Blood clots can have serious and lasting effects, and, in rare cases, may be fatal. Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms of a blood clot. It's essential to assess the benefits and risks of the pill with your doctor.
How do I know if Microgynon 30 is right for me?
If you have heavy periods or painful periods, PMS (premenstrual syndrome) or endometriosis the combined pill may help.
The combined pill is not suitable if you are over 35 and smoke, or if you have certain medical conditions.
There is no evidence that the pill will make you gain weight.