Progestin-Only Pills

There are several progestin-only methods available in the United States, including progestin-only oral contraceptives (sometimes referred to as “minipills”). Progestin-only pills are safe for many women for whom there are strong contraindications against the use of estrogen.

For new contraceptive users and those switching from another method, progestin-only pills can be initiated at any time if it is reasonably certain that a woman is not pregnant (see Box 3-16). Waiting for the next men­strual period is unnecessary. The U.S. SPR recommends that up to a 1-year supply of progestin-only pills be prescribed or provided at initial and return visits. The more pill packs given up to 13 cycles, the higher the continua­tion rates. Progestin-only pills can be started immediately (up to 7 days) after a spontaneous or induced abortion. If progestin-only pills are started within 5 days of the start of menstrual bleeding or at the time of a surgi­cal abortion, no additional contraceptive protection is needed. Otherwise, the woman needs to abstain from sexual intercourse or use additional