Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Trainer document
PROGESTAGEN-ONLY PILLS (presentation)
Progestagen-Only Pills (POPs), also known as mini-pills, contain only one synthetic
hormone similar to the progesterone hormone produced by the woman’s ovaries. The
amount contained in each mini-pill is very low.
How they work
POPs work by:
• Thickening the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to pass through.
• Blocking ovulation
Effectiveness
If they are used correctly and continuously, POPs are very effective for breastfeeding
women: only 1 pregnancy in 100 women within the first year of usage. As they are
commonly used, 2 women out of 100 breastfeeding women using POPs get pregnant
within the first year of usage.
In non-breastfeeding women, the effectiveness is lower.
Advantages
• Are safe, effective, especially in breastfeeding women.
• Contain only one hormone, in a smaller quantity than the COCs.
• Can be used by women who cannot use COCs because of the estrogen.
• Do not interfere with sexual intercourse.
• Woman can become pregnant rapidly after stopping the pill (method is immediately
reversible).
• May be beneficial for the woman’s health:
o Reduces the risk of benign breast disease
o Decreases the risk of cancer of the female reproductive organs, and other genital
problems (uterine fibroma).
o May reduce the cramps and bleeding during menstrual periods.
Disadvantages
• Have some side effects.
• Must be taken every day at exactly the same hour.
• Do not protect against STIs/HIV.
Possible Side Effects
Most women experience no side effects. Occasionally, they may experience:
• Changes in menstrual bleeding (irregular menstrual periods or absence of periods)
• Unexpected bleeding or spotting between periods
• Breast tenderness
• Acne
• Increase appetite and weight gain.
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 4: FP Methods