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All medications from licensed pharmacies
GPhC reg. no. 1120610
All medications from licensed pharmacies
GPhC reg. no. 1120610
Microgynon is what is known as a hormonal contraceptive pill or a combined oral contraceptive. Microgynon contains two active ingredients, ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel. These are synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone.
Microgynon works by over-riding the woman’s normal menstrual cycle. The hormones in the pill trick the body into thinking that ovulation has already occurred, and this is turn, stops an egg from being released from the ovaries each month.
These hormones also cause an increase in the thickness of the mucus in the womb, which makes it more difficult for sperm to reach it and, therefore, reach an egg. These hormones also affect the lining of the womb and make it less likely that a fertilised egg can be implanted.
Taking Microgynon normally results in more regular, less painful and lighter menstrual bleeding and is, therefore, sometimes prescribed for women who have problems with particularly heavy, painful or irregular periods.
Microgynon is a monophasic pill which, simply put, means that each tablet contains the same dose of hormones. One tablet is taken daily for 21 days, after which you then have a 7-day break. During this pill-free time the hormone levels in your blood drop. This results in a ‘withdrawal bleed’, that is to say a bleed that is similar to your normal period. You restart taking Microgynon after seven days, even if you are still bleeding.
Microgynon is not a suitable contraceptive for everyone. Women who have had blood clots or blood disorders, for example, would not be prescribed the medication nor would women with high blood pressure, angina or high cholesterol levels. It is also not suitable for women who smoke more than forty cigarettes a day.
Your doctor will look at your complete medical history and decide whether Microgynon is suitable for you before prescribing it.
All medicines can cause side effects. The possible side effects of Microgynon include:
