Before you begin taking the progestin only pill (POP), be sure you understand the benefits and possible problems of using this type of pill. This form lists the possible problems that can occur with the POP and the danger signs you should watch for. If you have any questions as you read, we will be happy to talk about them with you.
You will get written information explaining the use, effectiveness, and medically recognized benefits and risks of the available birth control methods and devices and you will also get the FDA approved information provided by the pill manufacturer. You should read these and ask questions about anything you do not understand.
The POP provides highly effective pregnancy protection, especially if you take it correctly. You should not take POPs if you have reason to think you might be pregnant.
There may be less protection from pregnancy when the POP is taken with certain drugs, especially those used to control seizures. You should talk to your clinician about what to do if you take any other medicine in addition to the POP.
If you see another health care provider for any reason, you should tell him/her that you are on the POP.
You should not use the POP if you have cancer of the breast or abnormal genital bleeding, or think you might have liver disease or a liver tumor.
Minor reactions to the POP may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Breast tenderness
Spotting between periods may happen often while taking POPs. It is very important to take the POP at the same time of day, every day, including days that you are spotting or bleeding.
Watch for the following POP danger signals and report any to a clinician immediately:
- Severe pain in the stomach or abdomen
- Long periods of bleeding from the vagina
- New lump in your breast
- No period after having a period every month
Using the POP does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and a serious infection could cause sterility. If you or your partner have other sexual partners, you should also use latex condoms to prevent infections, even though you are using the POP to prevent pregnancy.
Regular physical examinations for cancer screening and prevention, for screening for sexually transmitted infections and for routine health maintenance are strongly recommended.