Advantages of the minipill
The minipill is an alternative for women who do not tolerate the estrogen-containing combined pills well. As a rule, the minipill is better tolerated, but side effects can also occur when taking the minipill. The minipill is also considered relatively safe during breastfeeding.
The production of breast milk is not affected by estrogen-free preparations such as the minipill. The minipill is also recommended for women who have an increased risk of thrombosis. When taken reliably without any delay, the contraceptive protection of the minipill is comparable to that of combined pills.
It is also taken continuously. Many women also report reduced or no menstruation at all. This effect can level off after a few months, and menstrual disorders are more likely to occur at the beginning.
Disadvantages of the minipill
There are already several generations of the minipill. The minipill with the progestin levonorgestrel in particular does not tolerate any shift in the way it is taken. To ensure adequate contraceptive protection, this minipill must be taken at exactly the same time every day.
The minipill with desogestrel has a maximum tolerance of twelve hours. The minipill therefore demands a high level of discipline from its users. The minipill can also be associated with side effects.
These can include spotting and bleeding between periods, as well as delayed menstrual bleeding. Headaches, acne, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, depressive moods and loss of libido are also common side effects. Weight gain may occur. Although the risk of thrombosis is lower than with conventional preparations, it is still increased when taking the minipill.
Indications for the minipill
The minipill is recommended for women who experience significant side effects when taking combined pills.An intolerance to estrogen is manifested for example by weight gain, mood swings and even depressive moods, loss of libido, migraines, headaches, nausea or breast tenderness. The minipill is also recommended for women at high risk of thrombosis or for nursing mothers who want to use hormonal contraception.
