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Contraception

Hormonal contraception lets women control if and when they become pregnant. Combined oral contraceptives and progestogen-only pills are among the most widely used contraceptive methods, and access to reliable family planning medicines is a routine health priority.

Medicines used to treat Contraception

Plan B

Levonorgestrel

1.5mg

Levonorgestrel 1.5mg tablets for emergency contraception, a single progestogen dose that delays or holds back ovulation.

FromUS$9.70/ tabletView

Levlen

Ethinylestradiol, Levonorgestrel

0.03/0.15mg

Ethinylestradiol with levonorgestrel tablets, a combined oral contraceptive. Negative feedback on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis holds ovulation back.

FromUS$0.53/ tabletView

Mircette

Desogestrel, Ethinylestradiol

0.15/0.02mg

Desogestrel with ethinylestradiol tablets for contraception, a combined pill acting through ovulation inhibition and a thicker cervical barrier.

FromUS$1.14/ tabletView

Key points

  • An oestrogen and a progestogen work together in the combined pill, blocking ovulation and altering cervical mucus and womb lining.
  • The progestogen-only pill relies on a single hormone, suiting those unable to tolerate oestrogen-containing options.
  • Newer progestogens such as desogestrel and drospirenone are linked to less breakthrough bleeding for some women than levonorgestrel.

How hormonal pills prevent pregnancy

Combined pills pair an oestrogen, usually ethinylestradiol, with a progestogen such as desogestrel, levonorgestrel, drospirenone, or norgestrel. Together they suppress ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. Progestogen-only pills (the “mini-pill”) rely on a single hormone, making them suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen.

Choosing the right option

The progestogen used affects tolerability and side-effect profile. Older progestogens like levonorgestrel have a long track record; newer ones such as drospirenone and desogestrel are associated with lower rates of breakthrough bleeding for some women. See the women’s health category for a full list of available tablets. If you experience severe headaches, visual changes, chest pain, or leg swelling while using any hormonal method, seek medical attention promptly.

Further reading

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