Femodene
Femodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy. It contains two synthetic hormones: ethinylestradiol (30 micrograms, a form of oestrogen) and gestodene (75 micrograms, a form of progestogen). Alongside its primary purpose, Femodene offers additional benefits for managing menstrual symptoms and certain medical conditions.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £14.24
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Femodene prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 30mcg/ 75mcg | 3×21 pills | £14.24 |
| 30mcg/ 75mcg | 6×21 pills | £24.74 |
Femodene: A Reliable Combined Oral Contraceptive
What is Femodene?
Femodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy. It contains two synthetic hormones: ethinylestradiol (30 micrograms, a form of oestrogen) and gestodene (75 micrograms, a form of progestogen). Alongside its primary purpose, Femodene offers additional benefits for managing menstrual symptoms and certain medical conditions.
What Are the Additional Benefits of Femodene?
Femodene provides reliable contraception and can also be used to manage a variety of menstrual-related issues, including:
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea).
- Heavy periods (menorrhagia).
- Irregular periods or continuous menstrual bleeding.
- Premenstrual tension.
- Endometriosis, is a condition where womb cells grow outside the womb.
How Does Femodene Work?
Femodene prevents pregnancy through a three-step process:
- Stops Ovulation: Prevents the release of an egg from the ovaries.
- Thickens Cervical Mucus: Makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
- Thins the Womb Lining: Reduces the likelihood of a fertilised egg implanting and growing.
How Do I Take Femodene?
General Instructions
- Take one pill daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break during which you may experience a withdrawal bleed.
- To ensure protection, start the pill on the first day of your period. If started on days 2-5 of your cycle, use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the next 7 days.
Missed Pills
- Missed one pill (less than 12 hours late): Take it as soon as possible. Continue your pack as normal. You are still protected.
- Missed one pill (more than 12 hours late): Take the missed pill as soon as possible and continue the pack. Use additional contraception for the next 7 days.
- Missed two or more pills: Take the most recent missed pill and continue the pack. Use additional contraception for 7 days.
Vomiting or Diarrhoea
- If you vomit or have diarrhoea within 4 hours of taking Femodene, treat it as a missed pill and follow the instructions above.
What Dosages Are Available?
Femodene is available in a single dosage:
- Ethinylestradiol (30 micrograms) and Gestodene (75 micrograms) per tablet.
Each pack contains 21 pills, sufficient for a 28-day cycle when including the 7-day break.
Potential Side Effects of Femodene
Most women tolerate Femodene well, but side effects may occur, especially when first starting the medication.
Common Side Effects:
- Headaches.
- Breast tenderness.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Weight gain.
- Spotting or irregular bleeding.
Rare Side Effects:
- Depression or mood changes.
- Disturbance in liver function.
- Blood clots.
If you experience any side effects, especially serious ones, consult your healthcare professional immediately.
Stopping Femodene
When you stop taking Femodene, your body may take some time to return to its normal cycle. Common reactions include:
- Spotting or heavier menstruation.
- Acne flare-ups.
- Cramps.
If you plan to switch contraception methods or are trying to conceive, consult your healthcare professional.
Precautions and Interactions
Femodene may not be suitable for everyone. Inform your healthcare professional if you:
- Have a history of heart or circulatory problems, blood clots, or liver disease.
- Experience depression or severe migraines.
- Are breastfeeding (a mini pill may be more appropriate).
- Are obese or diabetic.
Certain medications, such as antibiotics, antiepileptic drugs, or herbal remedies like St. John’s Wort, can reduce the effectiveness of Femodene.
Can I Buy Femodene Online?
Yes, you can safely and securely purchase Femodene from Medihealth Direct.
- Complete a free online consultation to ensure the medication is suitable for you.
- Once approved, your order will be dispatched for next-day delivery in discreet packaging.
Femodene FAQs
Is Femodene a combined pill?
Yes, Femodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing both oestrogen and progestogen.
Does Femodene cause weight gain?
Weight gain can occur, but it is usually minor. Consult your healthcare professional if you notice significant changes.
Can Femodene improve acne?
Yes, Femodene can help clear up acne in some women.
What should I do if I miss a pill?
If you miss a pill, take it as soon as you remember. Follow the missed pill guidelines and use additional contraception if necessary.
Can I use Femodene after taking the morning-after pill?
If you’ve taken emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate (e.g., ellaOne), Femodene may be less effective for 14 days. Use additional contraception during this period.
Is it safe to buy Femodene online?
Yes, Medihealth Direct follows strict UK regulations, ensuring the safe and confidential purchase of Femodene.
Will Femodene affect fertility?
Femodene does not affect long-term fertility. Normal ovulation resumes soon after stopping the pill.
How does the online consultation for Femodene 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.
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