What’s New
The drospirenone pill is marketed in the UK but not yet SMC approved - manufacturer submission is awaited
Tirzepatide may reduce efficacy of POPs
Introduction
The progestogen-only pill (POP) is suitable for women of childbearing age who wish low dose oral hormonal contraception or who have contraindications to the use of oestrogens.
The primary mode of action of most progestogen only pills is to alter the cervical mucus making it inhospitable to sperm. There is also an effect on ovulation with anovulatory cycles reported in many women.
Prevention of ovulation is the primary mode of action of desogestrel (DSG) and drospirenone (DRSP) progestogen-only pills.
This guideline will use the terms ‘woman’, ‘she’ or ‘herself’ in accordance with the Women’s Health Plan Scotland6, and will encompass all those who identify as women who require access to women’s health and reproductive services. For example, some transgender men, non-binary people, and intersex people or people with variations in sex characteristics may also experience menstrual cycles, pregnancy, endometriosis and the menopause. All healthcare services should be respectful and responsive to individual needs.