Desogestrel 75 mkg

Desogestrel 75 mcg is a progestogen-only pill (POP) that offers advantages over traditional POPs. Unlike older norethisterone-based POPs, desogestrel consistently inhibits ovulation in addition to thickening cervical mucus, providing more reliable contraception. It also has a 12-hour missed-pill window (compared to 3 hours for traditional POPs), making it more practical for women whose daily routine varies.

How to Take Desogestrel

Take one desogestrel 75 mcg tablet every day at approximately the same time, with no breaks between packs. Each 28-tablet pack is taken continuously, and a new pack starts immediately after finishing the previous one.

Desogestrel can be started at any point in your cycle if you are reasonably sure you are not pregnant. Starting on day 1 to 5 of your period provides immediate contraceptive protection. Starting at any other time means using condoms for the first two days.

Timing Window

Desogestrel has a 12-hour timing window — a tablet is still effective if taken within 12 hours of your usual time. If more than 12 hours have passed, take the missed tablet immediately, continue the pack as normal, and use condoms for the next two days. If you vomited within two hours of taking a tablet, treat this in the same way as a missed tablet.

One 75 mcg tablet daily, continuously without a pill-free interval.

Common Side Effects

• Irregular menstrual bleeding, spotting, or infrequent periods
• Absence of periods (amenorrhoea) in around 20% of users
• Headache
• Acne or oily skin
• Mood changes, including low mood
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea
• Reduced libido

Changes to Bleeding

Changes to your period are the most common reason women stop taking desogestrel. Unpredictable bleeding is normal in the first few months and often settles. The complete absence of periods is also normal and does not indicate a problem — but if you are uncertain or worried about pregnancy, take a test. If you continue to have troublesome bleeding after several months, discuss alternatives with your doctor.

Bleeding patterns are often irregular, especially in the first few months. Some women stop having periods entirely, which is not harmful. Efficacy may be reduced by enzyme-inducing medications.

Contraindicated in current breast cancer, severe hepatic disease, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, and known hypersensitivity to desogestrel.