First-lineCerazette, Cerelle
Progestogen-Only Pill (Desogestrel)
Progestogen-only contraceptive
Safe in breastfeeding from day 21 — UKMEC 1.
Oral
First-line for
- Contraception in breastfeeding
- CI to oestrogen
- VTE history
Mechanism
Primary: thickens cervical mucus. Desogestrel also inhibits ovulation in 97%.
POP rules
- Take same time daily (12 h window for desogestrel)
- No oestrogen-related VTE risk
- Safe immediately postpartum
Dosing
- Dose
- 75 µg OD continuously
- Missed
- ≥12 h late → extra cover 48 h
Contraindications
- AbsoluteCurrent breast cancer
- CautionActive liver disease
Side effects
- Irregular bleeding (commonest)
- Headache
- Acne
- Breast tenderness
Fetal & maternal notes
- • Safe in breastfeeding from day 1 (UKMEC 1 from day 21).
Key interactions
Enzyme inducers
Avoid↓ efficacy
Clinical pearls
- 💡 No VTE excess — safe after VTE.
- 💡 Start anytime if pregnancy excluded; 7 days extra cover unless day 1–5.
Content last reviewed: REPLACE_ME (e.g. 2026-07)
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