Norgeston
Norgeston is a mini pill (progesterone-only pill) that contains the synthetic hormone levonorgestrel. Unlike combined contraceptives, it does not include oestrogen, making it a suitable option for women sensitive to oestrogen-based contraception.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £11.24
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Norgeston prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3×35 pack | £11.24 |
| Standard | 6×35 pack | £16.49 |
Norgeston: Effective Progesterone-Only Contraceptive
What is Norgeston?
Norgeston is a mini pill (progesterone-only pill) that contains the synthetic hormone levonorgestrel. Unlike combined contraceptives, it does not include oestrogen, making it a suitable option for women sensitive to oestrogen-based contraception.
When taken correctly, Norgeston is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. It’s a long-term contraceptive that also offers other hormonal benefits.
Benefits of Norgeston
Norgeston provides reliable contraceptive protection with added health benefits, such as:
- High effectiveness rate and quick action.
- Lightweight, reversible contraceptive method.
- Reduces hormone-induced acne.
- Lightens flow and regulates periods, reducing PMS symptoms.
- Eases symptoms of endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Does not interrupt intimacy, unlike barrier methods.
- Safe for women sensitive to oestrogen.
Some women may experience irregular or lighter periods while using Norgeston.
How Does Norgeston Work?
Norgeston influences your body’s natural menstrual cycle by:
- Thickening cervical mucus makes it harder for sperm to enter the womb.
- Thinning the uterine lining prevents egg implantation.
- Suppressing ovulation in some cases.
When taken daily, Norgeston provides reliable and continuous contraceptive coverage.
How to Take Norgeston
Dosage Instructions
- Take one pill daily at the same time each day.
- Swallow the pill whole with or without water; do not chew or split it.
- Each strip contains 35 pills, labelled with the days of the week. Follow the arrows to ensure you take them in order.
- Unlike combined pills, Norgeston is taken every day without breaks between strips.
Starting Norgeston
- First Day of Your Period: Provides immediate contraceptive cover.
- Mid-Cycle Start: Use barrier contraception for seven days until the pill takes full effect.
Switching to Norgeston
- Begin Norgeston immediately after finishing your current contraception. Do not have a seven-day break or take dummy pills.
After Pregnancy or Miscarriage
- After childbirth, Norgeston can be started immediately under medical advice.
- After a miscarriage or abortion in the first three months, it can be taken straight away.
What to Do If You Miss a Pill
Less Than 3 Hours Late
- Take the missed pill immediately. No additional contraception is needed.
More Than 3 Hours Late
- Take the missed pill as soon as you remember.
- Use barrier contraception for the next seven days.
- If you’ve had unprotected sex, take a pregnancy test to rule out conception.
Vomiting or Diarrhoea While on Norgeston
- Vomiting Within 2 Hours: Take another pill immediately.
- Persistent Vomiting/Diarrhoea: Use barrier contraception during and for seven days after recovery.
Side Effects of Norgeston
Common side effects include:
- Headaches and dizziness.
- Nausea or upset stomach.
- Spotting between periods.
- Skin changes like acne.
These usually subside as your body adjusts to the medication.
Serious Side Effects (Rare)
- Migraines or severe headaches.
- Vision changes.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing).
- Blood clots (pain or swelling in the leg, chest pain).
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe side effects.
Interactions and Precautions
Medicines That May Interfere with Norgeston
- Some epilepsy and HIV medications.
- Antibiotics.
- Sedatives.
- Herbal remedies like St John’s Wort.
Inform your healthcare professional about any medications you are taking to avoid reduced contraceptive effectiveness.
Who Should Avoid Norgeston?
You should not take Norgeston if you have:
- Severe liver disease.
- Breast or liver cancer.
- A history of heart attacks, strokes, or thrombosis.
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Can I Buy Norgeston Online?
Yes, you can purchase Norgeston online from Medihealth Direct. Complete a quick health consultation to ensure the pill is safe for you. Once approved, your prescription will be discreetly delivered to your doorstep with free next-day delivery.
Norgeston FAQs
What is Norgeston used for?
Norgeston is primarily used as a contraceptive pill. It may also help with acne, PMS, and symptoms of endometriosis or PCOS.
Is Norgeston a combined pill?
No, Norgeston is a mini pill containing only progesterone.
Can I take Norgeston while breastfeeding?
Yes, Norgeston is safe to use while breastfeeding.
Can Norgeston delay periods?
While not its primary purpose, Norgeston may affect the frequency or timing of your periods.
What should I do if I miss a pill?
If you’re less than 3 hours late, take it immediately. If more than 3 hours late, use additional contraception for seven days.
How does the online consultation for Norgeston 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.