Progesterone Only Pills (POPS)

Mechanism of action POPs do not contain oestrogen Thicken cervical mucus making it hard for sperm to reach the egg Partially inhibit ovulation (in 50% of cycles) 2

Who can use POPs Women of any reproductive age or parity who: Want to use this method of contraception Cannot or should not take pills containing estrogen Are breastfeeding (POPs do not suppress breast milk production) 3

Who should not use POPs Suspected pregnancy Current breast cancer Liver disease Women suffering from deep venous thrombosis (DVT) 4

Advantages Safe Effective, especially for breastfeeding women Have no effect on breast milk Easy to discontinue Immediate return to fertility 5

Disadvantages Slightly lower level of contraceptive protection than COCs Requires strict daily pill taking, preferably at the same time Does not protect one against STIs and HIV/AIDS Side effects include Irregular spotting or bleeding, irregular cycles Nausea Breast tenderness Headache