Microgynon Contraceptive Pill

Buy Microgynon oral contraceptive pill

Microgynon is a combined oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy. It contains synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone and must be taken daily to maintain protection.

Microgynon is one of the most widely used contraceptive pills in the UK due to its reliability and additional benefits beyond contraception.

Microgynon offers both contraceptive protection and hormonal regulation, which is why it's commonly prescribed as a first-line option for birth control.

What is in Microgynon?

Microgynon contains two active hormones:

• ethinylestradiol (a synthetic oestrogen)
• levonorgestrel (a synthetic progestogen)

These hormones work together to regulate your menstrual cycle and prevent pregnancy. Levonorgestrel is also used in emergency contraception, but in Microgynon it's combined with oestrogen to provide continuous contraceptive protection.

The hormone combination mimics natural hormone patterns in your body, helping to stabilise your menstrual cycle while preventing ovulation.

How does Microgynon work?

Microgynon prevents pregnancy in three ways:

1. Prevents ovulation: The pill stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month, meaning fertilisation cannot occur.
2. Thickens cervical mucus: This creates a barrier that makes it more difficult for sperm to reach the uterus.
3. Alters the womb lining: The endometrium becomes thinner, making it less suitable for implantation.

Together, these effects provide a highly reliable form of contraception when the pill is taken consistently.

How long does Microgynon take to work?

Microgynon works immediately if started within the first five days of your period.

If you start taking it at another point in your cycle, it will take seven days to become fully effective. This is because the body needs time to adjust hormone levels and fully suppress ovulation. You should use additional barrier contraception, like a condom, if you have sex during this window.

Find out more about how long birth control takes to work with our expert guide.

How effective is Microgynon?

Microgynon is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available when used correctly.

• Perfect use: over 99% effective
• Typical use: around 91% effective

This means if used perfectly and exactly as prescribed, fewer than one in 100 people will become pregnant in a year.

However, Microgynon’s effectiveness depends heavily on consistency. Missing pills, taking them late, or using them incorrectly can all reduce your protection. This is called ‘typical use’, and causes effectiveness to fall to 91%.

It’s why it’s a good idea to set reminders or link your pill-taking to a daily routine, to make sure you’re staying as protected as possible.

It is important to note that the pill does not protect you against sexual transmitted infections (STIs). To protect yourself against STIs, condoms are the best method.

Rigevidon vs Microgynon

Microgynon and Rigevidon contain the same active ingredients and work in the same way.

What’s the difference?

The main difference is branding and cost. Rigevidon is a generic version, meaning it contains the same hormones but may be more affordable.

Some people may prefer one brand over another depending on how their body responds, even though the active ingredients are identical.

How do I take Microgynon?

Microgynon is usually taken in a 21-day cycle followed by a seven-day break.

Standard Microgynon cycle

• Take one pill daily for 21 days.
• Take a seven-day break (during which you may have a withdrawal bleed).
• Start the next pack after seven days.

Continuous use

Some people take Microgynon continuously without a break to avoid periods. This should only be done if advised by a healthcare professional.

Tips for best results

• Take the pill at the same time every day.
• Use reminders or alarms.
• Keep a spare pack in case of travel or missed doses.

What to do if you miss a Microgynon pill

Missing pills can reduce effectiveness, so it’s important to act quickly.

If one pill is missed (less than 24 hours late):

• Take it as soon as you remember.
• Continue as normal.

If two or more pills are missed:

• Take the most recent missed pill.
• Continue the pack.
• Use additional barrier contraception for seven days.

If pills are missed in the first week and you’ve had unprotected sex, you may need emergency contraception. Speak to a healthcare professional if you are concerned.

Potential Microgynon side effects

Most people tolerate Microgynon well. However, there are potential side effects when taking the contraceptive pill, especially at the start.

Common side effects

• nausea
• headaches
• breast tenderness
• mood changes
• breakthrough bleeding (spotting between periods)
• changes in weight

These usually improve within a few months as your body adjusts.

Read the patient information leaflet for more details on side effects.

Less common side effects

• changes in libido
• skin changes
• fluid retention

Seek urgent medical help if you experience

• chest pain or difficulty breathing
• severe headache or vision problems
• swelling or pain in one leg

These may be signs of a blood clot; a rare but serious risk associated with combined hormonal contraception.

When not to use Microgynon

Microgynon is not suitable for everyone.

You should not take it if you:

• have a history of blood clots
• have certain heart or liver conditions
• experience migraines with visual aura
• are a smoker aged over 35
• have uncontrolled high blood pressure
• have a BMI greater than 35

A healthcare professional will assess your medical history before prescribing Microgynon.

How does Microgynon interfere with other medication?

Some medications can reduce the effectiveness of Microgynon, including:

• certain antibiotics (e.g. rifampicin)
• epilepsy medicines
• HIV treatments
• herbal remedies like St John’s Wort

If you are taking these, you may need additional contraception. Always inform your pharmacist or doctor about any medicines you are using, including over the counter and herbal.

Microgynon and breastfeeding

Microgynon is not usually recommended while breastfeeding, particularly in the first six weeks after birth. This is because oestrogen may affect milk supply. After six weeks, it can be used more safely.

Progestogen-only methods (like the mini pill) are usually preferred during breastfeeding.

How to store Microgynon

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep in original packaging.
• Protect from heat and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.

Frequently asked questions about Microgynon

What is Microgynon used for?

Microgynon is used to prevent pregnancy. It may also help regulate periods, reduce heavy bleeding and improve hormonal symptoms like acne.

Can Microgynon stop periods?

Yes. Taking Microgynon continuously without a break can delay or stop periods temporarily. This should be done under medical guidance.

Can Microgynon start periods?

Microgynon does not trigger a natural period but causes a withdrawal bleed during the pill-free week. This is often much lighter and less painful than a normal period.

Can Microgynon cause weight gain?

There is no strong evidence that Microgynon causes significant weight gain. Some people may experience temporary bloating or fluid retention. Find out more about whether birth control pills cause weight gain.

Is rigevidon the same as Microgynon?

Yes. Rigevidon contains the same hormones and works in the same way as Microgynon.

Can Microgynon cause thrush?

Hormonal changes may slightly increase the risk of vaginal infections like thrush in some people, but this is not a common side effect.

Can Microgynon be taken with Mounjaro?

While Microgynon can be taken with Mounjaro, the weight loss drug can make the pill less effective at preventing pregnancy, as it affects how well the pill is absorbed.

Sources

• The combined pill. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 24 March 2026].
• Contraception guide. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 24 March 2026].