Microgynon 30 (ED)

What is Microgynon?

Microgynon is a contraceptive pill prescribed to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It contains a combination of the two hormones ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel.

How does it work?

Microgynon works in the same way as other combined contraceptive pills (pills which contain two different hormones). It prevents pregnancy in three ways, which makes it a very safe contraceptive. 

It prevents ovulation (your ovaries releasing an egg) and it thickens the mucus at the entrance to the womb, which makes it less likely that sperm can reach an egg.

It also causes a change to the lining of your womb, which will be thinner while you are taking Microgynon. This means that if the two first mechanisms failed, this third mechanism would still prevent pregnancy as a fertilised egg would not implant and develop in the womb.

What does 30 ed mean?

Microgynon is available in two different pack sizes. 

Each Microgynon pack contains 21 tablets, which are taken for three weeks followed by a one week break. 

Each Microgynon 30ED pack contains 28 tablets, 7 of which do not contain any active ingredients. 

Some women find it difficult to remember starting a new pack after taking a break and therefore find that it easier to remember to take their pill if they take these placebo pills during the break.

Who can take Microgynon?

Like all contraceptive pills, Microgynon is a prescription only medication. While most healthy women can take Microgynon, it is important that a doctor or nurse assess whether it is suitable for you before you take it.

You can use our convenient online service to order a repeat supply of your pill. If you have never taken the pill before, you need to visit your GP for a first assessment and prescription.

You must not take Microgynon if:

• Are about to have an operation or will be off your feet for a long time
• Have had a heart attack or stroke in the past
• Have ever suffered from angina pectoris or a transient ischaemic attack
• Suffer from diabetes with blood vessel damage
• You have ever had a blood clot
• Have a disorder which affects the way your blood clots
• Have very high blood pressure
• Suffer from hyperhomocysteinaemia
• Have or have had a migraine with an aura
• Have or have had breast cancer
• Have or have had a severe liver disease
• Have had a liver tumour
• Are allergic to any of the ingredients in Microgynon

Make sure you inform your prescribing doctor of any conditions you have had in the past and mention any medications you are currently taking.

How often do I need to take Microgynon?

Microgynon needs to be taken on a daily basis, and ideally at the same time.

If you forget to take Microgynon for more than 12 hours after the correct time, then it is advised that you use alternative protection during the 7 days that follow. If it has been less than 12 hours before you took the last pill, then you are still protected and you can continue your course as usual.

The chances of you falling pregnant after you have forgotten to take your pill depends on your menstrual cycle. The patient leaflet which comes with your pill includes detailed instructions on what to do if you forget to take Microgynon.

There are some medications which can stop Microgynon from working properly. If you are prescribed any other medication, make sure you consult with your doctor before starting your course.

Each Microgynon tablet contains 0.03mg ethinylestradiol and 0.15mg levonorgestrel, which are synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone.

The following side-effects are common if you are taking Microgynon:

• nausea

• abdominal pain

• headaches

• depression

• mood swings

• painful or sore breasts

Uncommon side effects

• fluid retention

• upset stomach

• migraine

• loss of interest in sex

• breast enlargement

• skin rash, which may be itchy

The patient leaflet provides more information on the side effects of the pill.

Warnings

Microgynon slightly increases the risk of thrombosis. You should use an alternative type of contraception if you are already at risk, due to an illness or a previous medical conditions. This is the case if you:

• have a family history of thrombosis

• are obese

• are over 35 and smoke

• are suffering from a condition affecting your lipometabolism

• are suffering from hypertension

• have a heart problem such as atrial fibrillations or cardiac valve disease