What is EllaOne Emergency Contraception

ellaOne is an emergency contraceptive

ellaOne is a contraceptive intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your contraceptive method has failed. For example:

• if you had sex without protection;
• if your or your partner’s condom tore, slipped or came off, or if you forgot to use one;
• if you did not take your contraceptive pill as recommended.

You should take the tablet as soon as possible after sex and within a maximum of 5 days (120 hours). This is because it is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

This medicine is suitable for any woman of childbearing age, including adolescents.

You can take the tablet at any time during the menstrual cycle.

ellaOne does not work if you are already pregnant.

If your menstrual period is late, there is a possibility that you may be pregnant. When your period is late or when you have pregnancy symptoms (heavy breasts, morning sickness), you should consult a doctor or other healthcare professional before taking the tablet.

If you have unprotected sex after taking the tablet, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant. Unprotected sex at any time during your cycle can lead to pregnancy.

ellaOne is not to be used for regular contraception

If you do not have a regular method of contraception, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional to choose one that is suitable for you.

How ellaOne works

ellaOne contains the substance ulipristal acetate, which acts by modifying the activity of the natural hormone progesterone, which is necessary for ovulation to occur. As a result, this medicine works by postponing ovulation. Emergency contraception is not effective in every case. Of 100 women who take this medicine, approximately 2 will become pregnant.

This medicine is a contraceptive used to prevent a pregnancy from starting. If you are already pregnant, it will not interrupt an existing pregnancy.

Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Only condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections. This medicine will not protect you against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases (e.g. chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, gonorrhoea, hepatitis B and syphilis). Ask a healthcare professional for advice if you are worried about this.

How to take EllaOne Emergency Contraception

• Take one tablet by mouth as soon as possible and no later than 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Take the tablet without delay.
• You can take the tablet at any time in your cycle.
• You can take the tablet at any time of the day, either before, during or after a meal.
• If you are using one of the medicines that may prevent ellaOne from working properly (see section 2 “What you need to know before you take ellaOne”) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 4 weeks, ellaOne may work less effectively for you. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using ellaOne. Your doctor may prescribe another type of (non-hormonal) emergency contraceptive, i.e. a Cu-IUD.

If you vomit after taking ellaOne

If you vomit (be sick, throw up) within 3 hours of taking the tablet, take another tablet as soon as possible.

If you have sex again after taking ellaOne

If you have unprotected sex after taking the tablet, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant. After you take the tablet and until your next period comes, you should use condoms every time you have sex.

If your next period is late after taking ellaOne

After taking the tablet, it is normal for your next period to be a few days late.

However, if your period is more than 7 days late, if it is unusually light or cumbersome, or if you experience symptoms such as abdominal (stomach) pain, breast tenderness, vomiting or nausea, you may be pregnant. You should do a pregnancy test right away. If you are pregnant, you must see your doctor. (See section “Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility”)

If you take more ellaOne than you should

There have been no reports of harmful effects from taking a higher dose than recommended of this medicine. However, do ask your pharmacist, doctor or other healthcare professional for advice. If you have any further questions on using this medicine, ask your pharmacist, doctor or other healthcare professional.

What does EllaOne Emergency Contraception contain

The active substance is ulipristal acetate. Each film-coated tablet contains 30 milligrams of ulipristal acetate.

The other ingredients are:

• Tablet core: lactose monohydrate, povidone, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate
• Film coating: poly(vinyl alcohol) (E1203), macrogol (E1521), talc (E553b), titanium dioxide (E171), polysorbate 80 (E433), iron oxide yellow (E172), potassium aluminium silicate (E555)

What is EllaOne Emergency Contraception

ellaOne is an emergency contraceptive

ellaOne is a contraceptive intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your contraceptive method has failed. For example:

• if you had sex without protection;
• if your or your partner’s condom tore, slipped or came off, or if you forgot to use one;
• if you did not take your contraceptive pill as recommended.

You should take the tablet as soon as possible after sex and within a maximum of 5 days (120 hours). This is because it is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

This medicine is suitable for any woman of childbearing age, including adolescents.

You can take the tablet at any time during the menstrual cycle.

ellaOne does not work if you are already pregnant.

If your menstrual period is late, there is a possibility that you may be pregnant. When your period is late or when you have pregnancy symptoms (heavy breasts, morning sickness), you should consult a doctor or other healthcare professional before taking the tablet.

If you have unprotected sex after taking the tablet, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant. Unprotected sex at any time during your cycle can lead to pregnancy.

ellaOne is not to be used for regular contraception

If you do not have a regular method of contraception, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional to choose one that is suitable for you.

How ellaOne works

ellaOne contains the substance ulipristal acetate, which acts by modifying the activity of the natural hormone progesterone, which is necessary for ovulation to occur. As a result, this medicine works by postponing ovulation. Emergency contraception is not effective in every case. Of 100 women who take this medicine, approximately 2 will become pregnant.

This medicine is a contraceptive used to prevent a pregnancy from starting. If you are already pregnant, it will not interrupt an existing pregnancy.

Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Only condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections. This medicine will not protect you against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases (e.g. chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, gonorrhoea, hepatitis B and syphilis). Ask a healthcare professional for advice if you are worried about this.

How to take EllaOne Emergency Contraception

• Take one tablet by mouth as soon as possible and no later than 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Take the tablet without delay.
• You can take the tablet at any time in your cycle.
• You can take the tablet at any time of the day, either before, during or after a meal.
• If you are using one of the medicines that may prevent ellaOne from working properly (see section 2 “What you need to know before you take ellaOne”) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 4 weeks, ellaOne may work less effectively for you. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using ellaOne. Your doctor may prescribe another type of (non-hormonal) emergency contraceptive, i.e. a Cu-IUD.

If you vomit after taking ellaOne

If you vomit (be sick, throw up) within 3 hours of taking the tablet, take another tablet as soon as possible.

If you have sex again after taking ellaOne

If you have unprotected sex after taking the tablet, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant. After you take the tablet and until your next period comes, you should use condoms every time you have sex.

If your next period is late after taking ellaOne

After taking the tablet, it is normal for your next period to be a few days late.

However, if your period is more than 7 days late, if it is unusually light or cumbersome, or if you experience symptoms such as abdominal (stomach) pain, breast tenderness, vomiting or nausea, you may be pregnant. You should do a pregnancy test right away. If you are pregnant, you must see your doctor. (See section “Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility”)

If you take more ellaOne than you should

There have been no reports of harmful effects from taking a higher dose than recommended of this medicine. However, do ask your pharmacist, doctor or other healthcare professional for advice. If you have any further questions on using this medicine, ask your pharmacist, doctor or other healthcare professional.

What does EllaOne Emergency Contraception contain

The active substance is ulipristal acetate. Each film-coated tablet contains 30 milligrams of ulipristal acetate.

The other ingredients are:

• Tablet core: lactose monohydrate, povidone, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate
• Film coating: poly(vinyl alcohol) (E1203), macrogol (E1521), talc (E553b), titanium dioxide (E171), polysorbate 80 (E433), iron oxide yellow (E172), potassium aluminium silicate (E555)

What are Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

Hana is a daily contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy for women of childbearing age. It is an oral hormonal contraceptive (often called “the pill”). Hana works primarily by preventing a woman’s egg cell from ripening (prevents ovulation); it also has effects on cervical mucus which makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the womb.

Hana contains a small amount of one type of female sex hormone: a progestogen called desogestrel. Unlike the combined pill, Hana does not contain any oestrogen hormone, in addition to the progestogen. For this reason, Hana is called a progestogen-only pill (POP).

In contrast to the combined pill, Hana can be used:

• by women who cannot take oestrogens, or do not want to
• by women who are breastfeeding.

If you think you are post-menopausal, talk to your doctor. You may not need to take contraceptives.

Hormonal contraceptives, including Hana, do not protect you against HIV infection (AIDS) or any other sexually transmitted disease. Only condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections.

This product does not work as an emergency contraceptive. If it’s taken every day it will protect against pregnancy in the future.

How to take Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

When and how to take the tablets

Hana will not prevent pregnancy unless taken exactly as directed. 

Take one tablet at the same time every day, without a break between packs. 

Swallow the tablet whole.

Choose a convenient time of day. It is best to link this to something you already do at the same time every day. For example, when you wake up, or when you brush your teeth.

Never skip your daily tablet. Take it every day, even when you bleed or have spotting.

The Hana pack contains 28/ tablets. The days of the week are printed on the pack, and arrows show the order to take the tablets. Every time you start a new pack of Hana, take a tablet labelled with the correct day. For example, if you start on a Wednesday, you must take a tablet marked with Wed. Don’t start with just any tablet. 

Continue to take one tablet a day until the pack is empty, following the direction shown by the arrows.

When a pack is empty, you must start with a new pack of Hana on the next day, without a break, and without waiting for a bleed.

Starting your first pack of Hana 

Not currently using hormonal contraception: 

If you are not using hormonal contraception now or in the past month (for example, pill, vaginal ring, skin patch, injection, implant, hormone-containing coil (IUS)), wait for your period to begin.

• it is preferable to take your first tablet on day 1 of your period. When doing so, you do not need to use extra contraception
• if you take your first tablet on days 2–5 of your period, use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking the tablets.

Changing from a combined pill:

• if you have had your usual break from a combined pill, take the first Hana tablet on the day after your break, or when you have taken all the inactive tablets of your other contraceptive. If you follow these instructions, make sure you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana
• if you haven’t had your usual break from a combined pill, start taking Hana on the day after you take the last tablet from your present pill pack. Even if your other pill pack contains inactive tablets, you can start Hana on the day after taking the last active tablet. If you are not sure which this is, ask your pharmacist. If you follow these instructions, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from a vaginal ring or skin patch:

• if there has been a break between removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch (ie. you are not starting Hana on the day of removal of the ring or patch), make sure you use extra contraception (for example condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana.
• if you start taking Hana on the day of removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from another progestogen-only pill:

Switch on any day from another progestogen-only pill. You must start the day after you stop your other pill. You do not need extra contraception.

Changing from an injection, implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS):

When changing from an injection, start using Hana on the same day the injection is due. You do not need extra contraception.

When changing from an implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS), start Hana the same day the IUS or implant is removed. Your doctor will advise you when the IUS should be removed and whether you need any extra contraception.

Starting or resuming Hana following emergency contraception:

Ask your pharmacist for advice on how to start taking or resume taking Hana following emergency contraception. If you have taken emergency contraception, it is advisable to wait until day 1 of your next menstrual period before taking Hana.

Emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel can be used with Hana. If you have used emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel during your cycle, you can start or continue taking Hana the same day, but you must use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex for the next 7 days.

Using Hana and emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate together can alter the effect of both these medicines, resulting in reduced contraceptive effect and increased risk of pregnancy. If you have used emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate during your cycle, you must wait 5 days after taking ulipristal acetate before taking Hana and you must also use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex during the 5 days while you wait to start or resume taking Hana and for the first 7 days of taking Hana (i.e. for a total of 12 days).

If you have had a baby:

You can start Hana any day between day 1 and day 21 after the birth of your baby.

If you start later than 21 days afterwards, make sure that you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana. If you have already had unprotected sex, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor before starting Hana.

Your pharmacist, doctor or family planning nurse can also advise you.

What do Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets contain

The active substance is desogestrel. Each film-coated tablet contains 75 microgram desogestrel.

The other ingredients are alpha-tocopherol; maize starch; povidone; stearic acid; hypromellose; macrogol 400; titanium dioxide (E 171); lactose monohydrate.

What is Lovima

Lovima contains 75 micrograms of the progestogen desogestrel in every tablet. This is known as a progestogen-only pill (POP), but you may know it better as the ‘mini-pill.

Lovima is a new desogestrel contraception pill that is now available to buy without a prescription, following a consultation with a pharmacist. Desogestrel has previously only been available for women on prescription. When used correctly, it is as effective in preventing pregnancy as prescription-only combination contraceptive pills (containing oestrogen and progestogen together).

Why choose Lovima

With Lovima, you can now buy a contraceptive pill from your pharmacy without seeing your GP for a prescription. It is more effective than using a condom to prevent 99% of pregnancies if used correctly.

With Lovima, you should take one tablet each day simultaneously without a break between each pack.  This means you can take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding as you may find you experience irregular bleeding outside your monthly period cycle or even no period bleeding at all. If you are worried about your bleeding pattern, speak to your pharmacist.

In contrast to the combined pill (containing both oestrogen and progestogen), Lovima can be used by breastfeeding women, subject to a pharmacy consultation.

No blood pressure check is required before taking Lovima, although your pharmacist may be able to take your blood pressure if you are interested. Lovima may be taken whilst breastfeeding, which may not be possible with other contraceptive pills. Your pharmacist will check if Lovima is suitable for you.

With Lovima, you’re in charge of your contraception choice.

How does Lovima work

Lovima contains the progestogen desogestrel, which works in two ways to prevent pregnancy:

• It helps prevent ovulation when an egg is released from your ovaries around the middle of your menstrual cycle. There is nothing for sperm to fertilise if there is no egg, which means pregnancy is avoided.
• It thickens your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to get through and reach any eggs that may have been released.

This dual-action means Lovima is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.

Who can take Lovima

Lovima is suitable for women of childbearing age, following a consultation with a pharmacist. That means any age from starting your first period, all the way through to having gone through menopause. Your pharmacist will go through some questions to make sure Lovima is right for you.

You may even be able to take Lovima if you:

• have just had a baby
• are breastfeeding
• have migraines
• are over 35 years and smoke
• are overweight

You should not take Lovima if you:

• are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• have a thrombosis (a blood clot)
• have or have ever had jaundice or severe liver disease
• have or think you might have cancer that is sensitive to sex steroids (e.g. some forms of breast cancer)
• have any unexplained vaginal bleeding
• are allergic to soy, peanut, lactose or any of the ingredients in Lovima.

How should I take Lovima?

Start Lovima on the first day of your period. This is known as day one of your menstrual cycle.

Take one Lovima tablet simultaneously every day so that you have 24 hours between each dose. Take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding, and you may find your periods become lighter, less frequent, less regular or can stop altogether.

You can take your Lovima tablet with or without food (on an empty stomach), but it is best to swallow it whole and not crush or chew. Taking with water can make it easier to swallow.

To remind you to take Lovima at the same time every day helps to make this a routine, so try and tie it into something that you do at the same time every day. You could take it every morning or night, or take it with a specific meal, whatever works best for you. You could also use an electronic calendar, alarm clock or electronic device to remind you.

Although you can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your cycle, you will need to use additional contraception for 7 days to help keep you protected against pregnancy.

How long does Lovima take to work?

How long Lovima takes to work depends on which day of your period you started Lovima and if you are switching from any other contraceptive.

If you start Lovima on the first day of your period

You do not need to use an additional barrier contraception method (e.g. condom) to protect you from pregnancy.

If you start Lovima after the first day of your period

You can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your period, but you will need to use additional barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima.

If you switch from another hormonal contraception to Lovima

If you are switching from another contraception pill (for example, a combined pill containing oestrogen and progesterone), start taking Lovima the next day after taking your last active pill. You do not need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If you are switching from a patch, vagina ring, implant or IUS, start taking Lovima on the day your patch, vaginal ring, implant or IUS is removed. You don’t need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If there is a break since you last stopped your previous type of hormonal contraception, before starting Lovima, you will need to use a barrier method, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken emergency hormonal contraception before using Lovima

This depends on the type of emergency hormonal contraception you have taken:

If you have taken levonorgestrel (the brand name Levonelle), you can start Lovima straight away, but you will need to either abstain from sex or use barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken ulipristal (the brand name ellaOne), you should wait 5 days before taking Lovima. To prevent pregnancy, use additional contraception (either abstaining from sex or using barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms) for these 5 days PLUS an additional 7 days after starting Lovima.

What are the chances of getting pregnant with Lovima?

Lovima is clinically proven to be 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, provided you take it simultaneously each day from the start of your menstrual cycle.

What should I do if I have forgotten or missed a Pill?

If you are less than 12 hours late

Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the usual time. Lovima will still protect you from pregnancy.

If you are more than 12 hours late

If you are more than 12 hours late taking any pill, you may not be completely protected against pregnancy. The more consecutive pills you have missed, the higher the risk that you might fall pregnant.

Take a pill as soon as you remember and take the next one at the usual time. This may mean taking two pills in one day. This is not harmful. (If you have forgotten more than one pill, you don’t need to take the earlier missed ones.) Continue to take your pills as usual, but you must also use additional barrier contraception (condom) for the next 7 days.

If you are more than 12 hours late taking your pill and have sex, consult your pharmacist for advice.

Missing pills at any time in the cycle can reduce the efficacy of Lovima and risk pregnancy, but if you have missed one or more pills in the first week of taking Lovima and had sex in the week before missing the pill, the risk that you may get pregnant is higher. Ask your pharmacist for advice and if you need to use emergency contraception.

What should I do if I have vomiting or diarrhoea when taking Lovima?

If you have a severe stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, your Lovima tablet may not have been fully absorbed into your body, putting you at risk of pregnancy.

If you vomit within 3 to 4 hours of taking Lovima, then the tablet is considered missed. If you have severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, Lovima may not have been completely absorbed, and the contraception effect may be reduced. You should use an additional method of contraception (for example, barrier methods such as condoms) for the duration of your illness and the first 7 days of normal tablet taking.

If you are not sure what to do, talk to your pharmacist.

If you feel nauseous after taking Lovima

If you feel nauseous but don’t vomit or have diarrhoea, you don’t need to worry. Just carry on taking Lovima as normal to prevent pregnancy. If you continue to feel unwell, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

What is Emergency Contraceptive Richter 1500mcg?

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is an emergency contraceptive that can be used within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex or if your usual contraceptive method has failed.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter contains a synthetic hormone-like active substance called levonorgestrel. It prevents pregnancy in 99% of situations when you take it within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It will not prevent a pregnancy every time and is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It is better to take it within 12 hours rather than delay it until the third day.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is thought to work by:

• stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg;
• preventing sperm from fertilising any egg you may have already released.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex. It does not work if you are already pregnant. If you have unprotected sex after taking Emergency Contraceptive Richter, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is not indicated for use before the first menstrual bleeding (menarche).

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is not recommended for young women under 16 years of age.

How to take Emergency Contraceptive Richter 1500mcg

Take the tablet as soon as possible, preferably within 12 hours and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after you have had unprotected sex. Do not delay taking the tablet. The tablet works best the sooner you take it after having unprotected sex. It can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

• Emergency Contraceptive Richter can be taken at any time in your menstrual cycle, assuming you are not already pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Do not chew but swallow the tablet whole with water.
• If you are using one of the medicines that may prevent Emergency Contraceptive Richter from working properly (see section above “Other medicines and Emergency Contraceptive Richter”) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 4 weeks, Emergency Contraceptive Richter may work less effectively for you. Your doctor may prescribe another type of (non-hormonal) emergency contraceptive, i.e. a copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). If this is not an option for you or if you cannot see your doctor promptly, you can take a double dose of Emergency Contraceptive Richter (i.e. 2 tablets taken together at the same time).
• If you are already using a regular method of contraception, such as the contraceptive pill, you can continue to take this at your regular times.

If another unprotected intercourse takes place after the use of Emergency Contraceptive Richter (also if this is during the same menstrual cycle), the tablet will not exert its contraceptive effect, and there is again the risk of pregnancy.

What to do if you are sick (vomit)

If you are sick (vomit) within three hours of taking the tablet, you should take another tablet. You will need to contact your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic immediately for one more tablet.

After you have taken Emergency Contraceptive Richter

After taking Emergency Contraceptive Richter, if you want to have sex and are not using the contraceptive pill, you should use condoms or a cap plus spermicide until your next menstrual period. This is because Emergency Contraceptive Richter won’t work if you have unprotected sex again before your next period is due. 

After taking Emergency Contraceptive Richter, you are advised to make an appointment to see your doctor about three weeks later to make sure that Emergency Contraceptive Richter has worked. If your period is more than 5 days late or is unusually light or unusually heavy, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you become pregnant even after taking this medicine, you must see your doctor.

Your doctor can also tell you about longer-term methods of contraception that are more effective in preventing you from getting pregnant.

If you continue to use regular hormonal contraception such as the contraceptive pill and you do not have a bleed in your pill-free period; see your doctor to make sure you are not pregnant.

Your next period after you took Emergency Contraceptive Richter

After using Emergency Contraceptive Richter, your period is usually normal and will start on a usual day; however, sometimes, this will be a few days later or earlier. If your period starts more than 5 days later than expected, ‘abnormal’ bleeding occurs at that time, or if you think that you might be pregnant, you should check whether you are pregnant by a pregnancy test.

If you take more Emergency Contraceptive Richter then you should

Although there have been no reports of serious harmful effects from taking too many tablets at once, you may feel sick, actually, be sick (vomit), or have vaginal bleeding. You should ask your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic for advice, especially if you have been sick, as the tablet may not have worked properly. 

What does Emergency Contraceptive Richter 1500mcg contain

The active substance is levonorgestrel. Each tablet contains 1500 micrograms of levonorgestrel.

The other ingredients are: Potato starch, Maize starch, Silica, colloidal anhydrous, Magnesium stearate, 6 Talc, Lactose monohydrate.

What is Lovima

Lovima contains 75 micrograms of the progestogen desogestrel in every tablet. This is known as a progestogen-only pill (POP), but you may know it better as the ‘mini-pill.

Lovima is a new desogestrel contraception pill that is now available to buy without a prescription, following a consultation with a pharmacist. Desogestrel has previously only been available for women on prescription. When used correctly, it is as effective in preventing pregnancy as prescription-only combination contraceptive pills (containing oestrogen and progestogen together).

Why choose Lovima

With Lovima, you can now buy a contraceptive pill from your pharmacy without seeing your GP for a prescription. It is more effective than using a condom to prevent 99% of pregnancies if used correctly.

With Lovima, you should take one tablet each day simultaneously without a break between each pack.  This means you can take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding as you may find you experience irregular bleeding outside your monthly period cycle or even no period bleeding at all. If you are worried about your bleeding pattern, speak to your pharmacist.

In contrast to the combined pill (containing both oestrogen and progestogen), Lovima can be used by breastfeeding women, subject to a pharmacy consultation.

No blood pressure check is required before taking Lovima, although your pharmacist may be able to take your blood pressure if you are interested. Lovima may be taken whilst breastfeeding, which may not be possible with other contraceptive pills. Your pharmacist will check if Lovima is suitable for you.

With Lovima, you’re in charge of your contraception choice.

How does Lovima work

Lovima contains the progestogen desogestrel, which works in two ways to prevent pregnancy:

• It helps prevent ovulation when an egg is released from your ovaries around the middle of your menstrual cycle. There is nothing for sperm to fertilise if there is no egg, which means pregnancy is avoided.
• It thickens your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to get through and reach any eggs that may have been released.

This dual-action means Lovima is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.

Who can take Lovima

Lovima is suitable for women of childbearing age, following a consultation with a pharmacist. That means any age from starting your first period, all the way through to having gone through menopause. Your pharmacist will go through some questions to make sure Lovima is right for you.

You may even be able to take Lovima if you:

• have just had a baby
• are breastfeeding
• have migraines
• are over 35 years and smoke
• are overweight

You should not take Lovima if you:

• are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• have a thrombosis (a blood clot)
• have or have ever had jaundice or severe liver disease
• have or think you might have cancer that is sensitive to sex steroids (e.g. some forms of breast cancer)
• have any unexplained vaginal bleeding
• are allergic to soy, peanut, lactose or any of the ingredients in Lovima.

How should I take Lovima?

Start Lovima on the first day of your period. This is known as day one of your menstrual cycle.

Take one Lovima tablet simultaneously every day so that you have 24 hours between each dose. Take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding, and you may find your periods become lighter, less frequent, less regular or can stop altogether.

You can take your Lovima tablet with or without food (on an empty stomach), but it is best to swallow it whole and not crush or chew. Taking with water can make it easier to swallow.

To remind you to take Lovima at the same time every day helps to make this a routine, so try and tie it into something that you do at the same time every day. You could take it every morning or night, or take it with a specific meal, whatever works best for you. You could also use an electronic calendar, alarm clock or electronic device to remind you.

Although you can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your cycle, you will need to use additional contraception for 7 days to help keep you protected against pregnancy.

How long does Lovima take to work?

How long Lovima takes to work depends on which day of your period you started Lovima and if you are switching from any other contraceptive.

If you start Lovima on the first day of your period

You do not need to use an additional barrier contraception method (e.g. condom) to protect you from pregnancy.

If you start Lovima after the first day of your period

You can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your period, but you will need to use additional barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima.

If you switch from another hormonal contraception to Lovima

If you are switching from another contraception pill (for example, a combined pill containing oestrogen and progesterone), start taking Lovima the next day after taking your last active pill. You do not need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If you are switching from a patch, vagina ring, implant or IUS, start taking Lovima on the day your patch, vaginal ring, implant or IUS is removed. You don’t need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If there is a break since you last stopped your previous type of hormonal contraception, before starting Lovima, you will need to use a barrier method, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken emergency hormonal contraception before using Lovima

This depends on the type of emergency hormonal contraception you have taken:

If you have taken levonorgestrel (the brand name Levonelle), you can start Lovima straight away, but you will need to either abstain from sex or use barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken ulipristal (the brand name ellaOne), you should wait 5 days before taking Lovima. To prevent pregnancy, use additional contraception (either abstaining from sex or using barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms) for these 5 days PLUS an additional 7 days after starting Lovima.

What are the chances of getting pregnant with Lovima?

Lovima is clinically proven to be 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, provided you take it simultaneously each day from the start of your menstrual cycle.

What should I do if I have forgotten or missed a Pill?

If you are less than 12 hours late

Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the usual time. Lovima will still protect you from pregnancy.

If you are more than 12 hours late

If you are more than 12 hours late taking any pill, you may not be completely protected against pregnancy. The more consecutive pills you have missed, the higher the risk that you might fall pregnant.

Take a pill as soon as you remember and take the next one at the usual time. This may mean taking two pills in one day. This is not harmful. (If you have forgotten more than one pill, you don’t need to take the earlier missed ones.) Continue to take your pills as usual, but you must also use additional barrier contraception (condom) for the next 7 days.

If you are more than 12 hours late taking your pill and have sex, consult your pharmacist for advice.

Missing pills at any time in the cycle can reduce the efficacy of Lovima and risk pregnancy, but if you have missed one or more pills in the first week of taking Lovima and had sex in the week before missing the pill, the risk that you may get pregnant is higher. Ask your pharmacist for advice and if you need to use emergency contraception.

What should I do if I have vomiting or diarrhoea when taking Lovima?

If you have a severe stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, your Lovima tablet may not have been fully absorbed into your body, putting you at risk of pregnancy.

If you vomit within 3 to 4 hours of taking Lovima, then the tablet is considered missed. If you have severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, Lovima may not have been completely absorbed, and the contraception effect may be reduced. You should use an additional method of contraception (for example, barrier methods such as condoms) for the duration of your illness and the first 7 days of normal tablet taking.

If you are not sure what to do, talk to your pharmacist.

If you feel nauseous after taking Lovima

If you feel nauseous but don’t vomit or have diarrhoea, you don’t need to worry. Just carry on taking Lovima as normal to prevent pregnancy. If you continue to feel unwell, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

What is Levonelle One Step

Levonelle One Step is an emergency contraceptive that can be used within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex or if your usual contraceptive method has failed.

Levonelle One Step contains a synthetic hormone-like substance called levonorgestrel. It prevents about 84% of expected pregnancies when you take it within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It will not prevent a pregnancy every time and is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It is better to take it within 12 hours rather than delay it until the third day.

Levonelle One Step is thought to work by:

• stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg;
• preventing sperm from fertilising any egg you may have already released.

Levonelle One Step can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex. It does not work if you are already pregnant. If you have unprotected sex after taking Levonelle One Step, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant.

Levonelle One Step is not indicated for use before the first menstrual bleeding (menarche).

Levonelle One Step is not recommended for young women under 16 years of age.

How to take Levonelle One Step

Use in children and adolescents

Levonelle One Step is not indicated for use before the first menstrual bleeding (menarche).

Take the tablet as soon as possible, preferably within 12 hours, and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after you have had unprotected sex. Do not delay taking the tablet. The tablet works best the sooner you take it after having unprotected sex. It can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

Levonelle One Step can be taken at any time in your menstrual cycle, assuming you are not already pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Do not chew but swallow the tablet whole with water.

• If you are using one of the medicines that may prevent Levonelle One Step from working properly (see section above “Other medicines and Levonelle One Step”) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 4 weeks, Levonelle One Step may work less effectively for you. Your doctor may prescribe another type of (non-hormonal) emergency contraceptive, i.e. a copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). If this is not an option for you or if you cannot see your doctor promptly, you can take a double dose of Levonelle One Step (i.e. 2 tablets taken together at the same time).
• If you are already using a regular method of contraception such as the contraceptive pill, you can continue to take this at your regular times.

If another unprotected intercourse takes place after the use of Levonelle One Step (also if this is during the same menstrual cycle), the tablet will not exert its contraceptive effect, and there is again the risk of pregnancy.

What to do if you are sick (vomit)

If you are sick (vomit) within three hours of taking the tablet, you should take another tablet. You will need to contact your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic immediately for one more tablet.

After you have taken Levonelle One Step

After taking Levonelle One Step, if you want to have sex and are not using the contraceptive pill, you should use condoms or a cap plus spermicide until your next menstrual period. This is because Levonelle One Step won’t work if you have unprotected sex again before your next period is due.

After taking Levonelle One Step, you are advised to make an appointment to see your doctor about three weeks later to make sure that Levonelle One Step has worked. If your period is more than 5 days late or is unusually light or unusually heavy, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you become pregnant even after taking this medicine, you must see your doctor.

Your doctor can also tell you about longer-term methods of contraception that are more effective in preventing you from getting pregnant.

If you continue to use regular hormonal contraception such as the contraceptive pill and do not bleed in your pill-free period, see your doctor make sure you are not pregnant.

Your next period after you took Levonelle One Step

After using Levonelle One Step, your period is usually normal and will start on a usual day; however, sometimes, this will be a few days later or earlier. If your period starts more than 5 days later than expected, ‘abnormal’ bleeding occurs at that time, or if you think you might be pregnant, you should check whether you are pregnant by a pregnancy test.

If you take more Levonelle One Step than you should

Although there have been no reports of serious harmful effects from taking too many tablets at once, you may feel sick, actually, be sick (vomit), or have vaginal bleeding. You should ask your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic for advice, especially if you have been sick, as the tablet may not have worked properly.

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What does Levonelle One Step contain

The active substance is levonorgestrel. One tablet contains 1500 micrograms of levonorgestrel.

The other ingredients are potato starch, maize starch, colloidal silica anhydrous, magnesium stearate, talc, lactose monohydrate.

What is Gygel Contraceptive Jelly

Gygel is called a spermicidal contraceptive since it kills sperm. It should be used along with a barrier method of contraception, such as a vaginal diaphragm or cap, in order to prevent pregnancy.

Following sex, pregnancy may occur if a sperm travels up the vagina and through the entrance to the womb (cervix) and beyond, where it might fertilise an egg. By using a vaginal diaphragm or cap, access to the cervix is blocked, preventing the passage of sperm into the womb.

Spermicidal contraceptives such as Gygel will kill any sperm that may get round a diaphragm, and so will provide more effective contraception.

How to use Gygel Contraceptive Jelly

• Extra gel may be inserted into the vagina using a Vaginal Applicator.

Use with a diaphragm

• With clean hands put about two 2cm strips of gel on each side of your diaphragm.
• Make sure you also spread it along the outside rim of your diaphragm to prevent any sperm from getting past the edge.

Use with a cap

• Fill one-third of the cap with spermicide. Silicone caps have a groove between the dome and the rim and some gel should be placed there also. Do not put any spermicide around the rim as this will stop the cap from staying in place.
• If using a diaphragm/cap this should be put in place inside the vagina before sex and left there for at least six hours after sex.
• If you have sex again during this time, you must apply more Gygel or another spermicide without removing the diaphragm or cap
• If you have sex 3 hours or more after inserting your diaphragm or cap you will need to insert some extra gel.

Warning: your diaphragm should not be left in your vagina for longer than 24 hours.

There is no need to wash your vagina (douching) after sex. However, if you wish to do so, you must wait for at least six hours after intercourse.

What does Gygel Contraceptive Jelly contain?

The active ingredient in Gygel is nonoxinol-9 2.0% w/w.

The other ingredients are: methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E 218), Sorbitol solution (E 420), lactic acid, Povidone K30, propylene glycol, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, Sorbic acid (E 200) and purified water.

What are Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

Hana is a daily contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy for women of childbearing age. It is an oral hormonal contraceptive (often called “the pill”). Hana works primarily by preventing a woman’s egg cell from ripening (prevents ovulation); it also has effects on cervical mucus which makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the womb.

Hana contains a small amount of one type of female sex hormone: a progestogen called desogestrel. Unlike the combined pill, Hana does not contain any oestrogen hormone, in addition to the progestogen. For this reason, Hana is called a progestogen-only pill (POP).

In contrast to the combined pill, Hana can be used:

• by women who cannot take oestrogens, or do not want to
• by women who are breastfeeding.

If you think you are post-menopausal, talk to your doctor. You may not need to take contraceptives.

Hormonal contraceptives, including Hana, do not protect you against HIV infection (AIDS) or any other sexually transmitted disease. Only condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections.

This product does not work as an emergency contraceptive. If it’s taken every day it will protect against pregnancy in the future.

How to take Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

When and how to take the tablets

Hana will not prevent pregnancy unless taken exactly as directed. 

Take one tablet at the same time every day, without a break between packs. 

Swallow the tablet whole.

Choose a convenient time of day. It is best to link this to something you already do at the same time every day. For example, when you wake up, or when you brush your teeth.

Never skip your daily tablet. Take it every day, even when you bleed or have spotting.

The Hana pack contains 28/ tablets. The days of the week are printed on the pack, and arrows show the order to take the tablets. Every time you start a new pack of Hana, take a tablet labelled with the correct day. For example, if you start on a Wednesday, you must take a tablet marked with Wed. Don’t start with just any tablet. 

Continue to take one tablet a day until the pack is empty, following the direction shown by the arrows.

When a pack is empty, you must start with a new pack of Hana on the next day, without a break, and without waiting for a bleed.

Starting your first pack of Hana 

Not currently using hormonal contraception: 

If you are not using hormonal contraception now or in the past month (for example, pill, vaginal ring, skin patch, injection, implant, hormone-containing coil (IUS)), wait for your period to begin.

• it is preferable to take your first tablet on day 1 of your period. When doing so, you do not need to use extra contraception
• if you take your first tablet on days 2–5 of your period, use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking the tablets.

Changing from a combined pill:

• if you have had your usual break from a combined pill, take the first Hana tablet on the day after your break, or when you have taken all the inactive tablets of your other contraceptive. If you follow these instructions, make sure you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana
• if you haven’t had your usual break from a combined pill, start taking Hana on the day after you take the last tablet from your present pill pack. Even if your other pill pack contains inactive tablets, you can start Hana on the day after taking the last active tablet. If you are not sure which this is, ask your pharmacist. If you follow these instructions, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from a vaginal ring or skin patch:

• if there has been a break between removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch (ie. you are not starting Hana on the day of removal of the ring or patch), make sure you use extra contraception (for example condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana.
• if you start taking Hana on the day of removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from another progestogen-only pill:

Switch on any day from another progestogen-only pill. You must start the day after you stop your other pill. You do not need extra contraception.

Changing from an injection, implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS):

When changing from an injection, start using Hana on the same day the injection is due. You do not need extra contraception.

When changing from an implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS), start Hana the same day the IUS or implant is removed. Your doctor will advise you when the IUS should be removed and whether you need any extra contraception.

Starting or resuming Hana following emergency contraception:

Ask your pharmacist for advice on how to start taking or resume taking Hana following emergency contraception. If you have taken emergency contraception, it is advisable to wait until day 1 of your next menstrual period before taking Hana.

Emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel can be used with Hana. If you have used emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel during your cycle, you can start or continue taking Hana the same day, but you must use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex for the next 7 days.

Using Hana and emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate together can alter the effect of both these medicines, resulting in reduced contraceptive effect and increased risk of pregnancy. If you have used emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate during your cycle, you must wait 5 days after taking ulipristal acetate before taking Hana and you must also use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex during the 5 days while you wait to start or resume taking Hana and for the first 7 days of taking Hana (i.e. for a total of 12 days).

If you have had a baby:

You can start Hana any day between day 1 and day 21 after the birth of your baby.

If you start later than 21 days afterwards, make sure that you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana. If you have already had unprotected sex, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor before starting Hana.

Your pharmacist, doctor or family planning nurse can also advise you.

What do Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets contain

The active substance is desogestrel. Each film-coated tablet contains 75 microgram desogestrel.

The other ingredients are alpha-tocopherol; maize starch; povidone; stearic acid; hypromellose; macrogol 400; titanium dioxide (E 171); lactose monohydrate.