Rigevidon Contraceptive Pill

What is Rigevidon birth control?

Rigevidon is a combined oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones, levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol, that work together to stop ovulation and protect against fertilisation.

Rigevidon is a generic version of Microgynon, meaning it contains the same active ingredients but may be available at a lower cost.

Rigevidon active ingredients

Rigevidon contains two hormones:

• ethinylestradiol (oestrogen)
• levonorgestrel (progestogen)

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

How does Rigevidon work?

Rigevidon prevents pregnancy in three main ways:

• Stops ovulation so your body doesn’t release an egg.
• Thickens your cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
• Thins the womb lining, reducing the chance of implantation.

By combining these effects, Rigevidon provides strong contraceptive protection when taken daily.

How long does Rigevidon take to work?

Rigevidon works immediately if you start it on the first day of your period.

If you start at any other time in your cycle, it takes seven days to become effective, so you’ll need to use additional contraception during that time, like a condom.

How effective is Rigevidon?

Rigevidon is over 99% effective with perfect use. However, that drops to 91% based on ‘typical use’. That factors in things like missing a pill or taking at different times each day.

To keep it as effective as possible:

• Take your pill at the same time every day.
• Avoid missing doses.
• Follow guidance if pills are missed.

You can find out more in our guide to the effectiveness of contraception.

Is Rigevidon safe?

Rigevidon is considered safe for most people when prescribed appropriately. It has been widely used for many years and is regulated in the UK by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.

However, like all medicines, it may not be suitable for everyone and can carry risks, particularly for people with certain medical conditions. A healthcare professional will assess your suitability before prescribing it.

Rigevidon vs Microgynon

Rigevidon and Microgynon are essentially the same contraceptive pill. The main difference is branding and cost. Rigevidon is typically more affordable, while Microgynon is the branded version. Both work in the same way.

How to take Rigevidon

Rigevidon is usually taken in a 21-day cycle, followed by a 7-day break.

• Take one pill daily for 21 days.
• Take a 7-day break.
• Start your next pack after the break.

During the break, you’ll usually have a withdrawal bleed similar to a period, though often lighter, shorter, and less painful,

Can you take Rigevidon without a break?

Yes. Some people take Rigevidon continuously to skip periods. This is sometimes referred to as extended or continuous use.

You should only do this if advised by a healthcare professional, as it may increase the chance of breakthrough bleeding.

What to do if you miss a Rigevidon pill

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

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

If two or more pills are missed:

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

If pills are missed early in the pack and you’ve had unprotected sex, you may need emergency contraception. If you are unsure what to do, speak to a healthcare professional.

Potential Rigevidon side effects

Most people take Rigevidon without serious problems, but side effects can occur.

Common birth control pill side effects include:

• nausea
• headaches
• breast tenderness
• mood changes
• spotting between periods

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

Find out more about Rigevidon side effects by reading the patient information leaflet.

Seek urgent medical help if you experience:

• chest pain or shortness of breath
• severe headache or vision problems
• pain or swelling in one leg

These may be signs of a blood clot, which is rare but serious.

When not to use Rigevidon

Rigevidon may not be suitable if you:

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

Always speak to a healthcare professional before starting Rigevidon.

Rigevidon tablets and other medications

Some medicines can affect how well Rigevidon works, including:

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

These can reduce contraceptive effectiveness so you may need to consider alternative or additional protection.

Rigevidon and breastfeeding

Rigevidon can be used during breastfeeding, but only six weeks after giving birth. This is because oestrogen can reduce milk supply. Progestogen-only options, like the mini-pill, are usually preferred during this time.

How to store Rigevidon

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

Do not use after the expiry date.

Frequently asked questions about Rigevidon

Is Rigevidon a combined pill?

Yes. Rigevidon is a combined contraceptive pill, meaning it contains both oestrogen and progestogen.

How long does Rigevidon take to stop your period?

Rigevidon doesn’t stop your natural cycle, but it can make your periods lighter and more regular over time. Continuous use can delay or skip periods.

Can Rigevidon cause weight gain?

There is no strong evidence that Rigevidon causes significant weight gain. Some people may notice temporary bloating or fluid retention.

Can you buy Rigevidon over the counter?

Rigevidon is not available to buy over the counter. You’ll need a consultation with a pharmacist or doctor to make sure it’s safe and suitable for you before it can be supplied.

Can you drink alcohol on Rigevidon?

Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking Rigevidon. Alcohol does not affect how the pill works. However, if you vomit after drinking, it may reduce effectiveness, and you should follow missed pill guidance.

Sources

• Rigevidon PIL. EMC. [Accessed 13 April 2026].
• The combined pill. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 13 April 2026].
• Contraception guide. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 13 April 2026].
• Contraception guidance. (2019). NICE. [Accessed 13 April 2026].