In contrast to conventional birth control and micro pills, the mini pill does not contain estrogen, but only the hormone progestin. As a result, it represents a much smaller intervention in the hormone balance of the body.

The mini pill was developed primarily as a contraceptive during breastfeeding, as the estrogen in conventional pills can have a negative effect on breast milk production. In fact, the gentle contraceptive is suitable for all women who cannot take estrogen, for example because they are overweight, have high blood pressure or have problems with blood clotting. The gentle pill is also a good and safe alternative to the more heavily dosed preparations for smokers who have reached the age of 35.

The use of the mini pill as a low-dose birth control

If you decide to use this contraceptive, you must ensure that you take it regularly: you must not exceed the usual time by more than three hours, otherwise effective contraceptive protection is no longer guaranteed due to the low hormone dose. But since, unlike other pills, there is no break of several days here, it is also easier to get used to a certain regularity. Since there is no break in the intake, there is no menstrual bleeding. The progestogen in the mini-pill ensures that the mucus in the cervix has a consistency that sperm cannot penetrate. It also alters the lining of the uterus itself in a way that makes it impossible for eggs to implant.

Disadvantages and contraindications of the low-dose birth control

Side effects such as dizziness and nausea, abdominal pain, a feeling of tension in the breasts, tiredness and mood swings, headaches or acne can occur, especially at the beginning of the intake. But that often goes away over time. If you have liver disease, ovarian cysts, or recent breast cancer, you should use another contraceptive method.

There you have it. The mini-pill contains progestin only, so it’s considered to be safer for breastfeeding mothers. The pill is typically only available by prescription, but may be found over the counter (OTC) in some cases.