Progestogen-only / Mini pill and spotting

How our community feel progestogen-only / Mini pill has affected their periods

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Stopped

43%

No change

2%

Out of the 1312 reviews for progestogen-only / Mini pill, 182 people (14%) reported spotting.

Reviewers that reported spotting as a side effect

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Used for 6 - 12 mo
26 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  3 weeks ago

I started the POP because I had a few migraines with auras on the combined pill and had to stop this. When I started the mini-pill my periods became very irregular. However, I went on the combined pill in the first place because of my irregular cycle so this may just be me. I have noticed my periods are lighter but I never had heavy periods anyway. I have had a few cases of spotting for 2-3weeks after getting my period but this hopefully seems to have settled now after 5/6 months and I get a 3-5 day light period. My skin flared up with bad hormonal acne about 3/4months after I started taking the POP and hasn’t gotten any better. Another reason why I went on the combined pill initially was to help with acne so I feel this has regressed since starting the mini-pill. Also, I have had some horrific cramping at random times. A couple of times has been a whole week of painful cramps but again this hopefully seems to have settled down a bit after about 7/8 months of taking the POP. Overall, I’m not happy with the side effects I’m experiencing, especially my skin, and am considering trying the hormonal coil, but will give it a full year on the POP to see if my body starts to settle.

Read more

Somewhat negative mood

1 more effect

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 1 - 3 mo
28 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  20th Oct 24

I was prescribed generic Desogestrel mini pill to treat my adenomyosis. I was only on it for a couple of weeks, but I couldn't cope with the symptoms. Daily bleeding and bloating but more worryingly, horrendous nausea, dizziness and migraines. Also had swollen tender enlarged breasts.


Very negative mood

1 more effect

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 1 - 3 mo
31 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  10th Oct 24

Was put on this to help with my severe period pains. It has helped but I'm not sure it's worth it with the side effects. I can honestly say I am depressed. I have zero motivation, zero energy, zero inclination to do anything I used to enjoy. My sex drive has disappeared it doesn't matter because I've bled for the majority of the time I've been taking it. I want to stop but my GP won't try me on anything else until I've been on this for 3 months.


Somewhat negative mood

2 more effects

0 helpful

0 comments

Progestogen-only / Mini pill common side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

51% of progestogen-only / Mini pill reviewers reported tender breasts

46% of progestogen-only / Mini pill reviewers reported period like cramps

43% of progestogen-only / Mini pill reviewers reported vaginal discharge

41% of progestogen-only / Mini pill reviewers reported breast enlargement

38% of progestogen-only / Mini pill reviewers reported vaginal dryness


Possible progestogen-only / Mini pill side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Best selling Progestogen-only / Mini pill in the UK

Cerelle pill reviews


Top contraceptives for sale in the UK


Top 5 types of contraception for women

Order online

Order online now

Use our online prescription in under 5 mins

  • No GP appointment needed

  • Free standard delivery

Speak to a doctor

Not sure yet? Speak to a doctor

Schedule an appointment now

87% of women are happier with their contraceptive choice after speaking with one of The Lowdown's doctors

The Lowdown Footer

Women's health, reviewed.

Get the best women’s health info in your inbox

You are signing up to receive The Lowdown's latest findings and news in women's health. Your data will be used in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie policy

Built by doctors and experts

Our tools are made by medical professionals for your peace of mind

Our website uses affiliate links and we may earn a small commission if you click on them