Mini Pill
A progestin-only pill with no estrogen, for people with certain health conditions
form
Daily pill
What it is
A progestin-only pill — progestin is a lab-made version of the progesterone your body makes naturally — so it contains just one hormone instead of two. A great option if combined pills aren't right for you, including people who get migraines, those who smoke, and breastfeeding parents.
How it works
Mainly works by thickening the mucus at the entrance to the womb so sperm can't get through. One type, which uses a progestin called drospirenone (sold as Slynd), also stops ovulation, making it more reliable and forgiving of late doses.
Common brands
Tap any brand to learn more.
The good stuff
- Safe for people who can't take oestrogen, including those with migraines, a history of blood clots, or smokers over 35
- Can be used while breastfeeding
- Periods often become lighter or stop over time
- Lower overall hormone load than the combined pill
- The drospirenone pill (Slynd) has a more forgiving 24-hour window instead of just 3 hours
- One option (Opill) is available over the counter, with no prescription needed
The trade-offs
- Must be taken within the same daily window, 3 hours for most types, 24 hours for the drospirenone pill (Slynd)
- Irregular spotting is very common, especially in the first 3 months
- Periods can become unpredictable
Avoid if
- You have unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Certain types of breast cancer
- Arterial disease or history of stroke
What to expect
- 1Irregular spotting is very common in the first 3 months. Try not to panic, as it usually settles.
- 2About 20% of people stop having periods altogether; others may have more frequent but lighter bleeds.
- 3If bleeding is heavy or prolonged beyond 3 months, see your doctor.
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Find my match →Sources: ACOG, CDC (US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use). Not a substitute for medical advice.