Mini Pill

Similar to the pill, the mini pill is a month-long series of pills that must be taken every day. While the regular pill contains both progestin and estrogen, the mini pill contains progestin only.

The progestin-only mini pill provides pregnancy protection by:

• Preventing ovulation if taken for more than one cycle.
• Thickening the cervical mucus, which prevents the sperm and egg from joining.
• Preventing the uterine lining from thickening, which makes it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

How is it Used?

Like the regular pill, the mini pill is taken every day and is most effective when taken at the same time every day. For increased effectiveness in the evening, it should be taken in the late afternoon. 

If a woman is three hours late taking the pill, she should use a backup method of birth control. There are no placebo or "inactive" pills to take during the month.

Does it Protect Against STIs?

STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. STI risk varies depending on how you choose to protect yourself and your partner during sexual or intimate activities.

The mini pill does not protect against STIs.

Does it Protect Against Pregnancy?

Yes, but the mini pill is less effective than the regular (combined estrogen-progestin) pill. The chances of getting pregnant while using the mini pill are:

• Typical use: 5 percent
• Perfect use: 0.5 percent

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

• Decreases menstrual bleeding.
• Decreases menstrual cramps.
• Is a good option for women who cannot take estrogen because they are breastfeeding, or for whom estrogen-containing products cause severe headaches or high blood pressure.

Taking the mini pill also helps prevent serious health risks, such as:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease, a major cause of infertility in women.
• Ovarian and endometrial cancer.

Disadvantages:

• Menstrual cycle changes.
• Weight gain.
• Breast tenderness.
• Spotting or bleeding between periods.
• Depression can worsen.

Thing to Remember

• The mini pill does not protect against STIs.
• The mini pill must be obtained from a medical clinician and an examination may be required.
• The cost of the examination and mini pill varies, but is usually lower at a clinic such as Planned Parenthood and is covered by Medicaid.
• Use of the mini pill in addition to condoms is a more effective way to protect yourself against pregnancy as well as STIs.

Last Reviewed: November 2019