Marvelon
Marvelon is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed for the effective prevention of pregnancy. Containing 0.15mg of desogestrel and 30mcg of ethinylestradiol, it is one of the most reliable, reversible forms of contraception. Clinical studies show a pregnancy rate of just 0.1% within the first year of proper use.
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
Marvelon prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15mg/30mcg | 3×21 pack | £14.99 |
| 0.15mg/30mcg | 6×21 pack | £22.49 |
Marvelon: Effective Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill
What is Marvelon?
Marvelon is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed for the effective prevention of pregnancy. Containing 0.15mg of desogestrel and 30mcg of ethinylestradiol, it is one of the most reliable, reversible forms of contraception. Clinical studies show a pregnancy rate of just 0.1% within the first year of proper use.
Marvelon also offers additional benefits such as improving skin appearance (helpful for acne sufferers) and reducing the risk of ovarian and womb cancer when taken long-term. Women using Marvelon often experience lighter, less painful, and more regular periods.
Benefits of Marvelon
Marvelon provides numerous advantages beyond effective contraception:
- Immediate Protection: If taken on the first day of your period, Marvelon offers instant protection.
- Menstrual Comfort: Reduces period pain, makes periods lighter, and helps regulate cycles.
- Skin Benefits: Its anti-androgenic effects can reduce acne by lowering testosterone levels in the body.
- Reduced Cancer Risk: Long-term use is associated with a lower risk of ovarian and womb cancer.
- Convenience: No need to interrupt intimacy to use contraception.
How Does Marvelon Work?
Marvelon combines two synthetic hormones, ethinylestradiol (oestrogen) and desogestrel (progestogen), which work together to:
- Stop Ovulation: Prevents the release of eggs from the ovaries each month.
- Thicken Cervical Mucus: Makes it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus.
- Alter the Uterine Lining: Reduces the likelihood of a fertilised egg implanting in the womb.
How to Take Marvelon
- Start Taking the Pill: Begin on the first day of your period for immediate protection. If started later, use barrier contraception for the first 7 days.
- Dosage Schedule: Take one pill at the same time daily for 21 days.
- Break Period: Follow with a 7-day break, during which withdrawal bleeding (similar to a period) may occur.
- New Pack: Begin the next pack on the 8th day, even if bleeding continues.
Missed Pill Instructions
If You Miss One Pill (Less Than 12 Hours Late):
- Take the missed pill as soon as you remember.
- Continue with the remaining pills as usual.
- Protection remains intact.
If You Miss More Than One Pill:
- Take the most recent missed pill immediately.
- Skip earlier missed pills and continue with the pack.
- Use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the next 7 days.
- If you’ve missed pills in the first 9 days of the pack and had unprotected sex, consider emergency contraception.
Common Side Effects
Most women tolerate Marvelon well, but some may experience mild side effects, especially during the initial weeks:
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Breast tenderness or pain.
- Headaches.
- Changes in mood or libido.
- Slight weight gain or bloating.
Rare Side Effects: If symptoms such as severe headaches, chest pain, or visual disturbances occur, seek medical advice immediately.
Precautions and Interactions
Before starting Marvelon, consult your healthcare professional to ensure it’s suitable for you.
Who Should Avoid Marvelon?
Do not take Marvelon if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have a history of blood clots, strokes, or heart attacks.
- Suffer from severe high blood pressure or diabetes with complications.
- Are over 50 years old, or over 35 years old and smoke more than 15 cigarettes per day.
- Have or have had breast cancer.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interfere with Marvelon’s effectiveness:
- Anti-epileptic drugs.
- Medications for tuberculosis or HIV.
- Antibiotics such as rifampicin.
- Herbal remedies like St John’s Wort.
Always inform your healthcare professional about other medications or supplements you are taking.
How to Buy Marvelon Online Safely
You can purchase Marvelon securely online at Medihealth Direct.
- Complete a confidential online consultation.
- A registered healthcare professional will review your health information to determine suitability.
- Receive discreet next-day delivery to your chosen address.
Marvelon FAQs
Is Marvelon a combined contraceptive pill?
Yes, Marvelon contains both oestrogen and progestogen to provide effective contraception.
Can Marvelon help with acne?
Yes, Marvelon’s anti-androgenic properties can help reduce hormonal acne.
Does Marvelon cause weight gain?
Weight gain is possible but is usually minimal and can have other contributing factors.
Can Marvelon be used as emergency contraception?
No, Marvelon is not suitable as emergency contraception. Use dedicated options like the morning-after pill instead.
Is it safe to buy Marvelon online?
Yes, buying Marvelon online through Medihealth Direct is safe and follows UK medical regulations.
How does the online consultation for Marvelon 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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