When talking about family planning methods, one of the most popular and widely used methods among many people is birth control pills. But there are several different types of these birth control pills. Today, in this article, we are going to talk about one such special type of pill, Norgestrel. The specialty of this one is that it contains only one type of hormone, not two types of hormones like some birth control pills. So, let's see what exactly this pill is, how to use it correctly, and what things we need to be careful about while using it.
What is Norgestrel?
Simply put, Norgestrel is a birth control pill that is taken orally to prevent pregnancy or as a family planning method. It contains only the female hormone progestin . That's why it's sometimes called the 'mini-pill'.
This medicine may come under different brand names. Some brand names may no longer be available in some countries. However, you may have been prescribed this type of medicine by a doctor in Sri Lanka. It is also sometimes used for other medical purposes. You can ask your doctor for more information.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
For your safety and to achieve maximum success from the medication, you should definitely inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions before you start using this pill.
| Illness or condition | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| A history of blood vessel disease or blood clots | Hormonal pills may slightly change this risk. |
| Breast, cervical, or vaginal cancer | May have effects on hormone-dependent cancers. |
| Depression | Hormonal changes can affect mood. |
| Diabetes | Blood sugar levels should be monitored for possible effects. |
| Heart disease, liver disease, or kidney disease | The functioning of these organs may be affected. |
| Migraine or seizures | You should be aware of any changes in symptoms. |
| Vaginal bleeding of unknown cause | The reason for this must be investigated first. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | These pills should not be taken during pregnancy. |
| If breastfeeding | It is important to seek medical advice as small amounts of hormones may be added to milk. |
How should I take the pill?
The method of using this medicine is very simple, but very important.
- This pill should be taken orally. It is best to take it with water.
- You can take this with or without food.
- The most important thing is to take the pill at the same time every day. Choose a time that is easy for you to remember. For example, every evening after dinner.
- Take the pills in the order shown on the pill card, as indicated by the arrows.
- Use only as directed by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.Don't underestimate this.
What do you do if you forget to take a pill?
This is a problem that many people have. Every time you miss a pill, the effectiveness of your birth control decreases and the risk of pregnancy increases.
- If you miss a pill: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember (even if it's 3 hours late). Then, take the next pill at your usual time that day. But for extra protection, be sure to use another form of birth control, such as condoms, for the next 48 hours.
- If you miss more than one pill: This is a bit more serious. Be sure to use a back-up method of birth control for the rest of the pack, until your next period. Also, talk to your doctor right away for advice.
Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
Some other medications you are taking can affect the effectiveness of this birth control pill. This means that the pill may be less effective. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Some antibiotics and antifungals | rifampin, griseofulvin |
| Barbiturates/Seizure medications | phenobarbital, carbamazepine, phenytoin, topiramate |
| Medicines for HIV/AIDS | ritonavir |
| Herbal products | St. John's wort |
This list is not exhaustive. Tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements you are taking. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- See your doctor for regular checkups. This may include a breast exam, a vaginal exam, and a Pap smear.
- If you have the slightest suspicion that you are pregnant, stop taking the pill immediately and see your doctor.
- During the first month you start using this medicine, it is safer to use an additional form of birth control (e.g. condoms) .
Very important: This birth control pill only protects you from pregnancy. It does not protect against HIV (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted infections. It is essential to use a condom as a barrier method.
Possible side effects
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| - Breast discharge or pain - Sudden severe headache - Chest, groin, or leg pain - Difficulty breathing | - Difficulty seeing or speaking - Skin rash , itching or hives - Yellowing of the skin or eyes - Unusual tiredness |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| - Changes in monthly menstruation (increase, decrease) - Nausea - Headache (common) - Weight gain or loss | - Changes in sexual desire - Facial hair growth - Irritability, mood swings - Swelling due to water retention in the body |
If you notice anything unusual that is not on this list, talk to your doctor about it too.
Take-Home Message
- It is essential to take the Norgestrel pill at the same time every day .
- If you miss a pill or several pills, be sure to use an additional form of birth control and consult your doctor.
- This pill does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use a condom for that.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking.
- If you experience any serious side effects such as chest pain, severe headache, or blurred vision , seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 What is Norgestrel (Norgestrel / Ovrette / Opill) a pill for?
This is a family planning pill that is taken daily to prevent unwanted pregnancy (Daily Contraceptive Pill / Oral Contraceptive). The specialty of this pill is that it contains only the hormone called 'Progestin-only'! (That means this pill does not contain the hormone Estrogen). Therefore, it can be used freely by those who are allergic/problematic to the hormone Estrogen, and by breastfeeding mothers.
💬 How can a woman prevent herself from having a baby after taking this pill (Norgestrel)?
This provides a three-way barrier! 1. When taken daily, it thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to swim through it and enter the uterus. 2. It thins the lining of the uterus, making it unsuitable for fertilization (endometrial atrophy). 3. It also prevents ovulation.
💬 What are the main side effects and dangers of this family planning pill (Progestin-only)?
Since it does not contain estrogen, the main and most annoying side effect that many women experience is 'irregular bleeding / spotting'. The other dangerous thing is that you have to take it 'exactly at the same time' every day! Even if you miss a dose by 3 hours, its protection is 100% broken and you have a high chance of conceiving a child!
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