A progestin-only contraceptive is one kind of birth control pill. It is often called the “mini-pill.” Regular birth control pills have two female hormones: estrogen and progesterone. The mini-pill has only progesterone in it. Because this pill doesn't contain estrogen, it may not have as many side effects.

Does progesterone act as birth control?

Hormonal birth control works by using synthetic estrogen and/or progesterone to keep hormones steady. Without a surge or decline in hormones, different phases of the menstrual cycle cannot be triggered. For example, a steady level of progesterone prevents ovulation from taking place.

Is progesterone and birth control the same thing?

A progestin-only birth control pill is often called the “mini-pill.” Regular birth control pills have 2 female hormones: estrogen and progestin (a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone). The mini-pill has only progestin in it.