What is Cerazette?

Cerazette is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (POP), often called the “mini pill”. It contains desogestrel 75 micrograms and is used to prevent pregnancy.

Unlike combined pills, Cerazette does not contain oestrogen, making it a suitable option for people who cannot take combined hormonal contraception. Taken correctly, Cerazette works mainly by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to reduce the chance of pregnancy.

Cerazette does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — condoms are recommended for STI protection.

What is Cerazette Used For?

Contraception: Preventing pregnancy when taken correctly
Oestrogen-free contraception: Suitable for people who cannot take combined pills
Breastfeeding-compatible contraception: Often used after childbirth
Some users also experience lighter or absent periods while taking Cerazette.

How Does Cerazette Work?

Cerazette prevents pregnancy in two main ways:

Stops ovulation in most users (unlike some older mini pills)
Thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg
When taken correctly, it is over 99% effective.

When Should I Use Cerazette?

Cerazette may be suitable if you:

Cannot take oestrogen
Have migraines with aura
Are breastfeeding
Prefer a pill with no pill-free break

A clinician will review your medical history to confirm Cerazette is appropriate for you.

Who Can Use Cerazette?

Adult women (18+) who want oestrogen-free contraception
Those who are medically eligible for a progestogen-only pill
Breastfeeding individuals (following medical advice)

Who Should Not Use Cerazette?

You should not take Cerazette if you:

Have current or past breast cancer
Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
Have severe liver disease
Are allergic to desogestrel or any other ingredients

Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) and complete the clinical assessment fully before starting.

Can I Get Cerazette Without a Prescription?

No. Cerazette is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK.
It can be prescribed through a UK-registered online pharmacy after a clinician confirms it is suitable for you.

Alternative Contraceptive Options

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs)
Other progestogen-only pills
Contraceptive injection, implant, or coil (IUD/IUS)
A clinician can help you choose the option that best suits your health and lifestyle.

How to Take Cerazette:

Take one tablet every day, at the same time each day
Take tablets continuously with no break between packs
Start the next pack immediately after finishing the previous one
Cerazette has a 12-hour missed pill window. If you take a pill more than 12 hours late, effectiveness may be reduced.

If you miss a pill, follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet carefully. If unsure, contact your pharmacist, GP, or call NHS 111.

Active ingredient:

Desogestrel 75 micrograms

Other ingredients (excipients):

May include lactose monohydrate, maize starch, povidone, magnesium stearate, and tablet coating agents.

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) for the full ingredient list, especially if you have allergies or lactose intolerance.

Common side effects:

Changes to bleeding pattern (irregular bleeding, spotting, or no periods)
Headaches
Acne
Breast tenderness
Mood changes

Less common:

Weight changes
Reduced libido
Ovarian cysts (usually harmless and resolve on their own)

Serious but rare:

Allergic reactions
Blood clots (much lower risk than combined pills)

Seek urgent medical help (999 / A&E) if you develop facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of a severe allergic reaction

Contact your GP if bleeding is very heavy, prolonged, or troublesome

Call NHS 111 if you’re unsure whether symptoms are related to Cerazette

Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) for full safety information.