Desogestrel

Desogestrel is a third-generation progestogen. It is a synthetic progesterone known as a ‘progestin’ (basically, it’s like the stuff found in your body naturally, but made in a lab). It’s one of the hormones used in some brands of the combined contraceptive pill and used on its own in some brands of the progestogen-only pill.

Interestingly, it’s also been considered for use as a possible reversible contraceptive for men¹.

How does it work?

Desogestrel’s main job is to thicken your cervical fluid, making it harder for sperm to get into your uterus. It also works by preventing ovulation 97% of the time² and can thin the lining of your uterus, making it difficult for a fertilised egg to implant.

What is it used in?

Combined pill 

• Mercilon
• Gedarel 20/150
• Gederel 30/150
• Marvelon 
• Cimizt

Progestogen-Only Pill 

• Cerazette 
• Zelleta 

Is it androgenic?

Yes, but compared to other synthetic progestins, it is very weakly androgenic. (Check out our ‘Androgens’ blog for more info on what this means).

What are the side effects?

Desogestrel is often combined with other hormones in the combined contraceptive pill, so it can be pretty difficult to tell which side effects it’s responsible for and which could be due to the other hormones involved, such as oestrogen. When looking at people who use contraceptives containing only desogestrel, however, the following possible side-effects have been noted:

• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Changes to mood
• Headaches
• Decreased libido
• Irregularities in the menstrual cycle and irregular bleeding
• Nausea
• Skin reactions
• Weight changes