What is Microgynon?
Microgynon is one of the longest-used birth control pills. It contains the active ingredient combination of the progestin levonorgestrel and the estrogen ethinylestradiol.
Levonorgestrel belongs to the second generation of progestins and is considered one of the safest progestins with regard to the risk of thrombosis. Microgynon is often used as the reference product for comparative studies.
With correct use, the Pearl Index is approximately 0.1-0.9.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Levonorgestrel 0,15 mg, Ethinylestradiol 0,03 mg
Microgynon works through the three classic mechanisms:
Inhibition of ovulation: The hormones prevent ovulation by suppressing the release of gonadotropins.
Cervical mucus: Thickening of the cervical mucus as a barrier to sperm.
Endometrium: Changes to the lining of the uterus.
Levonorgestrel has no antiandrogenic effect – it therefore does not help against acne or excessive hair growth.
Who is it suitable for?
Microgynon is suitable for:
- Women who want a well-established, well-studied pill
- Women who value a low risk of thrombosis
- Women without androgen-related problems (acne, hirsutism)
Less suitable in cases of:
- Acne or oily skin (may worsen these)
- Increased body hair
- A tendency toward androgenic side effects
Available Dosages
Active ingredient content:
- Levonorgestrel: 0.15 mg
- Ethinylestradiol: 0.03 mg (30 micrograms)
Variants:
- Microgynon 30 (as above)
- Microgynon 21+7 (with 7 placebo tablets)
Packs:
- 21 tablets (1 cycle)
- 3 x 21 tablets
- 6 x 21 tablets
How to Take
Standard intake: One tablet daily for 21 days, 7-day break.
With placebo tablets (21+7): Take continuously for 28 days, including 7 tablets without active ingredient.
Timing: At the same time every day, with water.
Missed tablet:
- Up to 12 hours: take the missed tablet, protection remains
- More than 12 hours: take the missed tablet + use condoms for 7 days
Contraindications
Contraindications:
- Thromboses (current or in the medical history)
- Severe cardiovascular diseases
- Migraine with aura
- Severe liver diseases
- Hormone-dependent tumors
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Pregnancy
Caution in cases of:
- Smoking over the age of 35
- Overweight
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Familial tendency to thrombosis
Possible Side Effects
Common:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Mood swings
- Breakthrough bleeding
Uncommon:
- Weight gain
- Changes in libido
- Acne (may occur or worsen)
Rare:
- Thromboembolism (lowest risk among combination pills)
Positive: Lowest risk of thrombosis among combination pills due to the levonorgestrel.
Interactions
Effect reduced by:
- Antiepileptic drugs
- Rifampicin
- HIV medications
- St. John's wort
No relevant influence:
- Common antibiotics
- Paracetamol, ibuprofen
Frequently Asked Questions
In terms of the risk of thrombosis, Microgynon is considered one of the safest pills. Levonorgestrel has the lowest known risk of thrombosis among combination pills.
No, levonorgestrel has no antiandrogenic effect. In some women, acne may even increase while taking Microgynon. For skin problems, other pills are more suitable.
Microgynon is well researched and has a low risk of thrombosis.
Yes, there are other pills with the same active ingredients (levonorgestrel/ethinylestradiol), such as Leona or Minisiston. The active ingredient content may differ from Microgynon.
Similar Medications
Is Microgynon right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.