Microgynon 30

Microgynon 30 is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel.

It is one of the most widely prescribed contraceptive pills in Europe and provides highly effective pregnancy prevention when taken correctly.

The pill works through three complementary mechanisms. First, it suppresses ovulation by inhibiting the release of gonadotrophins from the pituitary gland.

Second, it thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Third, it alters the endometrial lining, reducing the likelihood of implantation.

Efficacy and Practical Use

With perfect use, the combined pill is over 99% effective. In typical use, effectiveness is around 91%, mainly because of missed pills, vomiting, or drug interactions.

Microgynon 30 is taken for 21 consecutive days followed by a 7-day pill-free interval, during which a withdrawal bleed usually occurs.

Besides contraception, Microgynon 30 may improve acne, reduce menstrual pain, and regulate cycles. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

How to Take Microgynon 30

Take one tablet at the same time each day for 21 days. Then have a 7-day break during which you will usually have a withdrawal bleed.

Start the next strip on day 8, regardless of whether bleeding has stopped.

Starting for the First Time

Begin on day 1 of your period for immediate protection. If you start on days 2-5, use additional barrier contraception for the first 7 days.

Missed Pills

If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember and continue the pack as normal — no additional precautions are needed.

If you miss two or more pills, take the last missed pill, continue the pack, and use condoms for the next 7 days.

If fewer than 7 pills remain in the pack, skip the pill-free interval and start the next strip immediately.

Standard Regimen

• One tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day pill-free interval
• Each tablet contains ethinylestradiol 30 micrograms and levonorgestrel 150 micrograms

Extended or Tailored Regimens

Some prescribers advise taking three strips back-to-back (63 days) followed by a 7-day break. This reduces the number of withdrawal bleeds and may suit women with painful or heavy periods.

No Dose Adjustment

There is no dose modification for body weight, mild renal impairment, or mild hepatic impairment.

Common (up to 1 in 10 women)

• Headache or migraine
• Nausea, particularly in the first few months
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes, including low mood
• Irregular spotting or breakthrough bleeding
• Weight fluctuation

Uncommon (up to 1 in 100 women)

• Decreased libido
• Rise in blood pressure
• Skin changes (acne or chloasma)

Rare (up to 1 in 1,000 women)

• Venous thromboembolism (VTE) — deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
• Arterial thromboembolism — stroke or myocardial infarction

Very Rare (fewer than 1 in 10,000 women)

• Hepatic adenoma
• Gallbladder disease

Breakthrough bleeding usually resolves after the first two to three cycles. If it persists beyond three months, consult your prescriber.

Thromboembolism Risk

Combined oral contraceptives carry a small increased risk of blood clots.

The absolute risk remains low — approximately 5-7 per 10,000 women per year with levonorgestrel-containing pills, compared with 2 per 10,000 in non-users.

Risk factors include smoking, obesity, immobility, and a family history of VTE. Stop the pill and seek urgent help if you develop a swollen painful leg, sudden breathlessness, or chest pain.

Smoking

Women over 35 who smoke should not use combined oral contraceptives. The combination significantly increases cardiovascular risk.

Surgery and Immobility

Stop Microgynon 30 at least four weeks before major surgery or prolonged immobilisation. Discuss alternatives with your prescriber.

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure should be checked before starting and at regular intervals during use.

Do not take Microgynon 30 if you have:

• A current or past venous or arterial thromboembolism
• Known thrombophilia (Factor V Leiden, protein C/S deficiency)
• Migraine with aura
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Diabetes with vascular complications
• Severe hepatic disease or liver tumours
• Known or suspected breast cancer
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Smoker aged 35 or over
• Known hypersensitivity to either active ingredient