Cerelle
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £14.99
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Cerelle prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 75mcg | 3×28 pills | £14.99 |
| 75mcg | 6×28 pills | £21.99 |
Cerelle – Your Trusted Progestogen-Only Contraceptive Pill
Cerelle is a highly effective progestogen-only contraceptive pill (POP), also referred to as the “mini pill.” It contains desogestrel (75mcg), an artificial progestogen hormone that prevents pregnancy. Unlike combined contraceptives, Cerelle contains only one hormone, making it ideal for women who cannot take oestrogen.
Cerelle is taken daily for 28 days without breaks and provides 99% protection against pregnancy when used correctly.
How Does Cerelle Work?
Cerelle prevents pregnancy by targeting three key areas:
1. Stops Ovulation
Cerelle halts the release of eggs from the ovaries, significantly reducing the chances of fertilisation.
2. Thickens Cervical Mucus
The pill alters the consistency of cervical fluid, creating a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the uterus.
3. Changes in the Uterine Lining
Cerelle modifies the womb lining, making it unsuitable for the implantation of fertilised eggs. These combined effects ensure reliable and safe contraception when Cerelle is taken consistently.
Benefits of Cerelle
Cerelle offers numerous advantages:
- Immediate Protection: Full contraceptive efficacy when started on the first day of your period.
- Flexible Start: This can be initiated at any time during your cycle (use additional contraception for the first two days if started mid-cycle).
- Suitable for Many Women: Ideal for women over 35, smokers, or those who cannot take oestrogen-based contraceptives.
- Higher Efficacy: Prevents ovulation, unlike some mini-pills.
- Post-Miscarriage Use: Provides immediate protection if taken within 24 hours of a miscarriage or abortion.
Who Can Take Cerelle?
Cerelle is suitable for most women over the age of 18. However, it may not be appropriate for those with certain medical conditions.
Do Not Use Cerelle If You:
- Are allergic to desogestrel or any other ingredients.
- Are you pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
- Have thrombosis or a history of blood clots.
- Have jaundice, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or a history of breast cancer.
Consult Your Healthcare Professional If You Have:
- High blood pressure, diabetes, or liver disease.
- A history of heart disease, gallbladder issues, or obesity.
How to Take Cerelle
Cerelle is easy to use and fits seamlessly into your daily routine.
Instructions for Use
- Take one pill daily at the same time every day.
- Start a new blister pack immediately after finishing the previous one – no breaks are required.
- Swallow the pill with or without water or food.
If taken on the first day of your period, protection is immediate. Otherwise, use barrier contraception for the first seven days.
Missed Pill Guidance
Cerelle is a 12-hour mini pill, meaning you can take a missed dose up to 12 hours late without compromising its effectiveness.
- Less than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill immediately and continue as normal.
- More than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and use additional contraception for the next seven days.
If you vomit or have diarrhoea within four hours of taking a pill, treat it as a missed dose.
Side Effects of Cerelle
Most women tolerate Cerelle well, but some may experience mild side effects, including:
- Headaches or nausea
- Changes in menstrual cycles
- Decreased libido
- Acne or weight fluctuations
- Breast tenderness
If side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare professional promptly.
Precautions and Warnings
When to Avoid Cerelle
- If you have a history of breast cancer.
- If you have unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- If you are planning major surgery requiring prolonged immobility.
Regular Monitoring
Women taking hormonal contraception should:
- Have regular check-ups with their healthcare professional.
- Monitor for signs of blood clots, such as leg pain or swelling.
- Conduct routine breast examinations.
How to Order Cerelle Online from Medihealth Direct
Ordering Cerelle online with Medihealth Direct is simple, fast, and secure:
- Complete an Online Consultation: Provide your medical history and details.
- Healthcare Professional Approval: A qualified healthcare professional reviews your details.
- Fast Delivery: Receive your prescription medication discreetly within one working day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I buy Cerelle without a prescription?
No, Cerelle is a prescription-only medication.
Does Cerelle stop periods?
Cerelle may cause irregular bleeding or stop periods entirely in some women.
Is Cerelle the same as Cerazette?
Yes, both pills contain the same active ingredient (desogestrel) and work in the same way.
How soon does Cerelle work?
It provides immediate protection if taken on the first day of your period. Otherwise, use additional contraception for the first seven days.
Can Cerelle cause weight gain?
Some women may experience slight weight changes, but this varies.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Follow the guidance above and use additional contraception for seven days if necessary.
How does the online consultation for Cerelle work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
See how the service works or browse all treatments.