Desogestrel
Is It Right for You?
A complete guide to Desogestrel — what it treats, how it works, dosages, side effects, and when a clinician may prescribe it following an online consultation.
What Is Desogestrel?
Desogestrel is a progestogen used as a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (often called the 'mini-pill'). It prevents pregnancy and is taken as a single small tablet every day without a break.
Unlike the combined pill, it contains no oestrogen, which makes it suitable for many people who cannot take oestrogen, including some who are breastfeeding, who smoke, or who are over a certain age. It is available under brand names such as Cerazette and Cerelle.
Desogestrel is a prescription-only medication in the UK. A licensed clinician can review your suitability and medical history through a telehealth consultation and prescribe it where appropriate.
What Conditions Is Desogestrel Used For?
Desogestrel is mainly used for:
preventing pregnancy when taken correctly every day.
for those who cannot or prefer not to take oestrogen-containing contraception.
a suitable contraceptive choice while breastfeeding.
Desogestrel must be taken every day with no break between packs to stay effective. It works best taken at a similar time each day; this type of pill allows up to a 12-hour window if a dose is late.
How Does Desogestrel Work?
Desogestrel mainly works by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (preventing ovulation), which is how it differs from older progestogen-only pills.
It also thickens the mucus at the neck of the womb, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg, and thins the lining of the womb.
Because its main action is to prevent ovulation, it is a reliable progestogen-only option when taken correctly each day without a pill-free break.
Dosages & Administration
The correct dose depends on the type and severity of infection, age, weight, and kidney function. Always follow your clinician's instructions. The table below is for general reference only.
Administration Tips
Take one tablet at the same time every day and start the next pack immediately with no gap. Set a daily reminder if it helps.
If a pill is more than 12 hours late, follow the missed-pill advice in the leaflet and use extra precautions, such as condoms, for the time stated.
Side Effects of Desogestrel
Side effects are usually mild and often settle within a few months. Changes in bleeding are the most common.
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Periods stopping altogether
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Acne or skin changes
- Nausea
- Signs of a blood clot (rare) - swollen, painful leg, chest pain, breathlessness
- Severe abdominal pain (possible ovarian cyst or ectopic pregnancy)
- Sudden severe headache or migraine with aura
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Severe allergic reaction
Irregular bleeding, or no bleeding at all, is common and usually not harmful. However, new persistent or heavy bleeding, or bleeding after sex, should be checked, as it can occasionally have other causes.
Drug Interactions
Always disclose all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements to your clinician or pharmacist before starting desogestrel.
Some epilepsy medicines, rifampicin, and St John's Wort can reduce the pill's effectiveness; a different contraceptive method may be advised.
These can affect hormone levels; your clinician will advise on suitability and any extra precautions.
Tell your clinician about any other hormones you take so your contraception can be managed safely.
Important Warnings
Desogestrel is very effective when taken correctly every day, but missing pills, vomiting, severe diarrhoea, or certain medicines can reduce protection. Follow the missed-pill rules carefully.
This pill prevents pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms as well if STI protection is needed.
Tell your clinician about any history of breast cancer, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding, as desogestrel may not be suitable.
Your suitability for the pill is reviewed periodically, including blood pressure and any new health changes or medicines.
Speak to a Clinician About Treatment
Getting advice no longer means sitting in a waiting room. Through The GP Service, you can consult with a licensed clinician in minutes — from home, on your lunch break, or wherever works for you. If treatment is clinically appropriate, your clinician can issue a prescription during the consultation. A consultation does not guarantee a prescription.
The treatment you need, when you need it.
Desogestrel FAQs
Yes. A licensed clinician can review your medical history and suitability through a telehealth consultation and prescribe desogestrel where appropriate, often with repeat supplies after review.
No. Desogestrel is a progestogen-only pill containing no oestrogen, so it suits many people who cannot take the combined pill, and it is taken every day without a break.
Periods stopping or becoming irregular is a common and usually harmless effect of desogestrel. If you are concerned about pregnancy or new symptoms, seek advice.
If a pill is more than 12 hours late, take it as soon as you remember, continue as normal, and use extra precautions such as condoms for the time stated in the leaflet.
Yes. Desogestrel is generally considered suitable during breastfeeding. Your clinician can confirm it is right for you.
There is no strong evidence that desogestrel causes significant weight gain. If you notice changes, discuss them with your clinician.