Progesterone Only Pill

Description

What is Desogestrel 75 Microgram Tablets?

 

 

Desogestrel 75 microgram Tablets is a prescription-only progesterone-only contraceptive pill (POP) used to prevent pregnancy. It contains the active ingredient desogestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone.

Desogestrel is a highly effective oral contraceptive option and is suitable for many women, including those who cannot use contraception containing oestrogen.

At The Kingston Pharmacy, Desogestrel 75 microgram Tablets are supplied as part of our clinician-led oral contraception service following a suitability assessment by our clinicians.

 

 

Available Strengths

 

 

Desogestrel is available as:

• 75 microgram tablets

The usual dose is one tablet taken every day, at the same time each day.

Our clinicians will determine whether Desogestrel is suitable for you and provide guidance on how to take it safely and effectively.

 

 

How Does Desogestrel Work?

Desogestrel works primarily by preventing ovulation, meaning the ovaries do not release an egg each month.

It also thickens the mucus at the entrance to the womb, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. In addition, it causes changes to the lining of the womb, further reducing the likelihood of pregnancy.

When taken correctly every day, Desogestrel provides highly effective contraception.

 

 

Treatment may help to:

• Prevent pregnancy
• Provide reliable daily contraception
• Offer an alternative to combined hormonal contraception
• Support long-term family planning
• Provide a convenient oral contraceptive option

For maximum effectiveness, tablets should be taken exactly as prescribed and at the same time each day.

 

 

Who May Be Suitable for Desogestrel 75 Microgram Tablets?

 

 

You may be suitable for treatment if you:

• Are aged 18 years or over
• Require reliable contraception
• Prefer an oral contraceptive option
• Cannot use oestrogen-containing contraception
• Meet the prescribing criteria following clinical assessment

All patients must complete a clinical assessment before treatment can be supplied.

 

 

How to Use Desogestrel 75 Microgram Tablets

Desogestrel should be taken once daily, at the same time each day.

Tablets are taken continuously without a break between packs. When one pack is finished, the next pack should be started the following day.

Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and can be taken with or without food.

Always follow the instructions provided by your clinician and take the medication exactly as prescribed.

 

 

Potential Benefits

When supplied appropriately, Desogestrel may:

• Provide highly effective contraception
• Prevent ovulation
• Be suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen
• Be suitable for many breastfeeding women
• Provide convenient daily contraception
• Offer clinician-supervised treatment and monitoring

 

 

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, Desogestrel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

 

 

Common side effects may include:

• Changes to menstrual bleeding patterns
• Irregular bleeding or spotting
• Headache
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Acne
• Nausea

These effects are often mild and may improve as your body adjusts to treatment.

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet and consult your healthcare professional if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

How effective is Desogestrel?

When taken correctly every day, Desogestrel is a highly effective method of contraception. Missing tablets or taking them late may reduce effectiveness.

 

 

Will Desogestrel affect my periods?

Some women experience lighter periods, irregular bleeding, or no periods at all whilst taking Desogestrel. Experiences vary between individuals.

 

 

Can I take Desogestrel whilst breastfeeding?

Desogestrel is suitable for many women who are breastfeeding. Your clinician will assess whether it is appropriate for you.

 

 

What happens if I miss a tablet?

Follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet and seek advice from your pharmacist or clinician if required. Additional contraception may be needed depending on when the tablet was missed.

 

 

Do I need a GP prescription?

No. Desogestrel 75 microgram Tablets can only be supplied following assessment by one of our qualified clinicians.

 

 

Our Oral Contraception Service

At The Kingston Pharmacy, we provide a personalised, clinician-led oral contraception service designed to help you access safe and effective contraception conveniently.

Before treatment can be supplied, you will complete a confidential online consultation covering your:

• Medical history
• Current medications
• Smoking status
• Previous contraceptive use
• Contraceptive preferences and goals

Your consultation will be carefully reviewed by one of our qualified prescribing clinicians, who will assess whether treatment is safe and appropriate for you. If suitable, a personalised treatment plan will be created based on your individual needs.

 

 

Flexible Delivery and Collection Options

Once your treatment has been approved, you can choose the option that works best for you:

• Free in-store collection from The Kingston Pharmacy at a time convenient to you.
• Secure home delivery directly to your chosen address, ensuring your medication arrives safely and discreetly.

We aim to make accessing contraception as simple and convenient as possible.

You can contact us by telephone, email, or by visiting the pharmacy, and we will be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.

 

 

Contraception Advice and Support

Our team can provide advice on:

• Choosing the right contraceptive option
• Starting or restarting contraception
• Missed tablets
• Side effect management
• Sexual health and wellbeing
• Ongoing contraceptive support

 

 

Important Information

Desogestrel 75 microgram Tablets are not suitable for everyone and should only be used following an appropriate clinical assessment.

Certain medical conditions and medications may affect suitability. Your clinician will assess whether treatment is appropriate for you during the consultation process.

Desogestrel does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Additional protection may be required.

Always use medicines exactly as prescribed.