Microgynon 30: what to know

It mainly works by preventing ovulation and also changes cervical mucus and the womb lining. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms remain relevant when infection protection is needed.

The two hormones are an oestrogen, ethinylestradiol, and a progestogen, levonorgestrel. Because it contains oestrogen, a prescriber should check blood pressure and ask about smoking, migraine with aura, blood clots, heart or liver disease, breast cancer, diabetes complications, recent childbirth, medicines, and family history.

Temporary nausea, breast tenderness, headache, mood changes, or bleeding between expected bleeds can occur. A troublesome or persistent change deserves a medication review rather than stopping and restarting without a plan.

Follow the schedule printed on your own pack and start each new pack on time. Take a tablet at a consistent time, keep the leaflet available, and arrange repeat supplies before the current pack runs out.

A late or missed tablet, vomiting soon after a dose, or severe diarrhoea can reduce absorption or protection. Check the pack instructions promptly and contact a pharmacist or prescriber if you are unsure; depending on the timing, you may need condoms or emergency contraception. Mention Microgynon 30 before starting prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal products because some medicines can interfere with it.

Get urgent medical help for sudden breathlessness, sharp chest pain, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling or pain, sudden weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, loss of vision, or a new severe headache unlike your usual headaches. These can signal a blood clot, stroke, or another serious problem.

Seek prompt assessment for yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain, a new breast lump, pregnancy symptoms, or a major change in migraine. Tell the clinician that you take a combined hormonal contraceptive.

Ask whether your health history and current medicines make this formulation suitable, which missed-pill instructions apply to your pack, how to manage unwanted bleeding, and when your blood pressure should be reviewed. If you want to change contraception, ask how to switch without leaving a gap in pregnancy protection.