Feanolla
Feanolla is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (POP), also known as the ‘mini pill.’ It contains 75mcg of desogestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. When taken correctly, Feanolla is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £16.49
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Feanolla prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 75mcg | 3×28 pills | £16.49 |
| 75mcg | 6×28 pills | £23.99 |
Feanolla: A Reliable Progestogen-Only Contraceptive Pill
What is Feanolla?
Feanolla is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (POP), also known as the ‘mini pill.’ It contains 75mcg of desogestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. When taken correctly, Feanolla is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Unlike combined pills, Feanolla does not contain oestrogen, making it suitable for women who are sensitive to oestrogen or those over the age of 35 who smoke. Feanolla offers more flexibility than traditional mini pills, as it can be taken up to 12 hours later than the usual schedule and remain effective.
How Does Feanolla Work?
Feanolla prevents pregnancy through three primary mechanisms:
- Thickens Cervical Mucus: Prevents sperm from reaching the egg.
- Thins the Womb Lining: Makes implantation of a fertilised egg unlikely.
- Prevents Ovulation: The active ingredient desogestrel often stops the release of eggs entirely, providing an additional layer of protection.
How Do I Take Feanolla?
Instructions for Use
- Take one pill daily, at the same time every day, for 28 days.
- There is no break between packs.
Starting Feanolla
- Start on the first day of your period for immediate protection against pregnancy.
- If starting on days 2-5 of your cycle, use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the first 7 days.
Missed Pills
- Less than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill as soon as possible. Continue the pack as normal. You are still protected.
- More than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill immediately, continue the pack, and use additional contraception for 7 days.
Vomiting or Diarrhoea
- If vomiting or diarrhoea occurs within 3 hours of taking the pill, treat it as a missed dose. Follow the missed pill guidelines above.
Benefits of Feanolla
- High Effectiveness: 99% when taken as directed.
- Flexibility: Up to 12-hour window for taking the pill.
- Oestrogen-Free: Ideal for women sensitive to oestrogen.
- Continuous Use: No need for breaks between packs.
- Minimal Side Effects: Lower risk of oestrogen-related issues such as nausea or bloating.
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Feanolla can cause side effects, though they are usually mild and temporary. Common side effects include:
- Mood changes
- Decreased libido
- Headaches
- Acne
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Irregular or absent periods
If side effects persist or cause concern, consult your healthcare professional.
Who Can Take Feanolla?
Feanolla is suitable for most sexually active women looking to prevent pregnancy. However, it may not be appropriate for those:
- With a history of severe liver disease.
- Taking medications that interact with desogestrel (e.g., epilepsy or HIV treatments, St. John’s Wort).
- Experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding.
If you’re breastfeeding or have specific health conditions, consult your healthcare professional before use.
Precautions
- No STI Protection: Feanolla does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use barrier contraception for STI prevention.
- Medication Interactions: Some medicines can reduce the pill’s effectiveness. Ensure your healthcare professional knows about any treatments you’re taking.
Can I Buy Feanolla Online?
Yes, you can purchase Feanolla securely from Medihealth Direct. Complete a quick and confidential online consultation to ensure the medication is suitable for you. Once approved by a registered healthcare professional, your order will be dispatched with free next-day delivery.
Feanolla FAQs
What happens if I miss a pill?
If you’re less than 12 hours late, take it as soon as possible. If over 12 hours late, take the missed pill immediately and use additional contraception for 7 days.
Can I buy Feanolla online?
Yes, Feanolla is available from Medihealth Direct after completing an online consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Does Feanolla affect fertility?
No, Feanolla does not impact long-term fertility. Normal ovulation resumes soon after stopping the pill.
Will I still get my period?
Some women experience irregular, lighter, or no periods at all while using Feanolla.
Can I use Feanolla while breastfeeding?
Yes, Feanolla is considered safe during breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare professional first.
Is Feanolla suitable for older women?
Yes, Feanolla is a good option for women over 35 who cannot or prefer not to use oestrogen-containing contraceptives.
How does the online consultation for Feanolla 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.