A minipill (or progestin-only pill) is a form of birth control, taken by mouth that contains progestin. Progestin is a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone, which is involved in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. The minipill is only available by prescription.

What does the mini pill do?

The mini pill works by thickening the fluid around the cervix (opening to the uterus or womb). This helps to prevent the sperm from entering. Sometimes the mini pill can also stop the ovaries from releasing an egg.

What is the difference between the mini pill and regular pill?

The combined pill contains two hormones and stops the ovaries releasing an egg each month. The progestogen-only pill (mini pill) has only one hormone and works by changing the mucus at the entrance to the womb (uterus) so that sperm cannot pass through to fertilise the egg.