Micronor is a Progestin-Only Pill (POPs). Most Pills are Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs). I had been on COCs before, and had positive experiences with them. I went off the Pill for awhile and when I wasready to go back on it, the doctor suggested Micronor as it is slightly less risky for heavy smokers. However, it is VERY important to take your POP at the exact same time every day. I was told this repeatedly. COCs have the benefit of a generous window, up to 12 hours. This isn't the case with Micronor at all! If you have trouble remembering to take your Pills on time, then Micronor probably isn't for you. Luckily, I'm pretty good about it once I get into the habit.
I was on Micronor for 2 years solid and experienced virtually no bad side effects. A *slight* decrease in libido, but not drastic at all. The only thing I disliked about it is that it does not regulate your periods like COCs do. I suppose this is because it lacks estrogen. I have fairly regular periods while I'm not on the Pill, so I am sure the irregularity was Micronor's doing. As a result, I would go for several months without a period, and then get a very long period, about 2 weeks long. However, it was very light, and the cramps weren't that bad. This is mostly why I decided to switch to a COC. I was always paranoid on Micronor when my period didn't show up, even though I knew it was irregular!
I was also worried that since Micronor is lower-dose than lots of Pills, it wouldn't be as effective with me since I am overweight. However, my husband and I used this as our sole birth control method for 2 years, and we have a fairly active sex life - no babies!
Another plus of Micronor is it is safe to use while breastfeeding, apparently. (although I didn't use it for this reason so I can't say much about it)
Basically, if you can deal with crazy periods, and are very good about taking your Pill on time, I would definitely recommend Micronor. I am about to switch to COCs but if that doesn't work out, at least I know I can always go back!
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Apr 8th, 2005
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