Birth control 101: Combination vs. mini pills

Let’s be real—birth control can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to figure out what works best for your body. But don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re dealing with acne, regulating your cycle, or preventing pregnancy, there’s often a birth control pill for that. So, without further ado, let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your needs.

If you’re seeking birth control, Hey Jane offers over 100 different birth control options, including combination and progestin-only (also known as “POP” or “mini pill”) options, delivered straight to your door or to your nearest pharmacy for pick up. Fill out our quick intake form to connect with one of our licensed clinicians via text, chat, phone, or video call to get started with your treatment.

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How do birth control pills work?

Birth control pills are small but mighty. They work by:

• Preventing ovulation: No egg released means no chance of fertilization.
• Thickening cervical mucus: Makes it hard for sperm to reach an egg.
• Thinning the uterine lining: Less likely for a fertilized egg to implant.

But wait—birth control isn’t just about preventing pregnancy. Many people use these pills to manage the following conditions:

• Acne: Certain pills regulate hormones that can trigger breakouts.
• Hormonal conditions: Including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
• Menstrual cycle irregularities: Birth control pills can help make periods more predictable and less painful.

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Types of birth control pills

There are two main types of birth control pills: combination and mini pills. Here’s a breakdown of what each pill has to offer:

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What are combination pills?

Combination or combined pills contain both synthetic estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. These two hormones work together to stop ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. They’re a great option if you’re not sensitive to estrogen.

Some popular brands of combination pills include:

• Loestrin
• Yaz
• Ortho Tri-Cyclen

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Side effects of combination pills

As you may have expected, combination pills, like any medication you take, may cause some unwanted side effects.

What are mini pills?

Mini pills, also known as progestin-only pills or POPs, are estrogen-free. They’re ideal for people who are sensitive to estrogen, breastfeeding, or have health conditions that make it unsafe to take estrogen (like blood clots). Unlike combination pills, mini pills rely solely on progestin to prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the lining of your uterus. They don’t consistently stop ovulation, so timing is critical and you need to take them at the same time every day.

The most common brands of mini pills are:

• Camila
• Errin
• Slynd (This option is unique because it has a longer window for taking it. Most POPs have a short 3 hour window where you can take them before its considered a missed dose. But on Slynd, you have a bit more wiggle room!)

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Side effects of mini pills

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How to pick the best birth control pill for you

Choosing the right birth control pill can feel like a daunting decision, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help narrow down your options:

1. Consider your health needs: Are you sensitive to estrogen? Do you need a pill that’s safe to use based on your health history? Mini pills may be your best bet. If you’re not sensitive to estrogen and want a more flexible schedule, combination pills might be the way to go.
2. Think about your lifestyle: Combination pills offer more leeway on timing, while mini pills require taking them at the same time every day. Choose what works with your routine.
3. Assess side effects: Everyone reacts differently. If you’ve had issues with nausea, mood swings, or spotting, bring these up with your health care provider to find the best fit.
4. Consult a provider: Your health care provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your medical history and lifestyle.

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Still feeling unsure about which pill to get? Hey Jane makes it easy to get started with over 100+ birth control options delivered straight to your door. From combination pills to progestin-only pills, there’s something for everyone. Take charge of your reproductive health today—on your terms!