How to get the best from the mini pill
“Sticking to taking your pill as instructed will give you the best effectiveness,” says Dr Ann. Here’s what you need to know.
Starting the mini pill
There are different rules for different brands of pill, and when you start also depends on your cycle – so it’s best to check with your doctor.
But in general:
- you can start taking it at any time in your cycle, if you’re sure you’re not pregnant
- if you start taking it on the first day of your period, you’re protected straight away
- if you start at any other time, you need to use another type of birth control – such as condoms – for protection for the first 2 days
Starting the mini pill after having a baby
- if you start taking it up to 21 days after giving birth, you’re protected straight away
- if you start it more than 21 days later, you need to use another type of birth control for the first 2 days
- if you start taking it 1 to 5 days afterwards, you’re protected straight away
- if you start more than 5 days afterwards, you need to use another type of birth control for the first 2 days
Your mini pill effectiveness routine
- take 1 pill every day
- take it at the same time every day – to make it a habit that’s easier to remember
- set yourself up to remember – choose a time in your daily routine that will help to jog your memory. “You could try linking taking your pill to an existing habit, such as brushing your teeth or taking the dog for a walk,” says Dr Ann. “And set a daily reminder on your phone, too”
- go straight on to the next packet – when you come to the end of a pill packet, you don’t have a break (unlike with the combined pill). This means you keep taking your pill during your period (if you have one)
What to do if you forget to take a pill
Whether you need to use extra protection depends on which [type of pill](/sexual-health/mini-pill-how-does-this-contraception-work/#Types of mini pill) you’re taking and how soon you remember to take it.
Here’s what you need to know:
- take the missed pill as soon as you remember, then continue taking the rest of your pills as normal
- if you’re more than 3 hours late taking a 3-hour mini pill, you need to use extra protection for the next 2 days
- if you’re more than 12 hours late taking a 12-hour mini pill, you need to use extra protection for the next 2 days
- if you have unprotected sex after forgetting a pill, you may need emergency contraception. Contact your doctor, and tell them you’ve been taking the mini pill (not the combined pill) to help them recommend the best emergency contraception for you
What to do if you’re sick while taking the mini pill
If you vomit or have severe diarrhea within 2 hours of taking the mini pill, it probably won’t be effective.
You should continue taking your pills as usual, but also use another type of birth control while you’re ill, and for 2 days after you feel better.