Microgynon, is a popular and effective contraceptive pill. It has two ingredients to help prevent ovulation, and also to make it harder for sperm to reach the uterus.

Like with any medication, there are risks involved, and so you should have all your regular check-ups with your own GP each year, to make sure it is safe to continue taking Microgynon.

Microgynon is taken once daily, at around the same time each day. Microgynon is a 21 day pill pack, meaning you take 21 tablets consecutively (starting on day 1 of your menstrual cycle), followed by a 7 day, pill free break.

You should not take Microgynon if you have:

• heart disease
• untreated / uncontrolled high blood pressure
• blood-clotting disorder / circulation problems;
• Family history of heart attack / stroke / blood clots before 45.
• a history of hormone-related cancer (e.g breast or uterine cancer)
• unusual vaginal bleeding that has not been checked by a doctor;
• severe migraines
• liver disease, liver cancer, history of jaundice caused by pregnancy or birth control pills
• problems with severe obesity

Do not use if you are breast feeding. Smoking can greatly increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. Your risk increases the older you are and the more you smoke. Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop taking Microgynon and tell your doctor if you become pregnant, or if you miss two menstrual periods in a row.

Common; (contact your doctor is these persist or are uncomfortable)

• Headache / Migraine
• Depression or mood changes
• Nausea
• Breast pain
• Bleeding between periods / Change in vaginal discharge

Uncommon side effects of taking Microgynon include: (contact your doctor is these persist or are uncomfortable)

• Vomiting / Diarrhoea
• Breast enlargement
• Weight changes
• Vaginal infection
• Severe itching

• High or low blood pressure
• Acne
• Fluid retention

Rare, serious side effects (stop taking and contact your doctor)

• Hearing impairment
• Blood clots
• Slight increase in the risk of breast and cervical cancer
• Liver problems
• Severe allergic reaction

Before taking any medication, it is important to read the Patient Information Leaflet. You can find information leaflets for your medicines by typing them into the search bar at medicines.org, or by contacting us.