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Cerazette (Desogestrel) contraceptive pill
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What is Cerazette (Desogestrel)?
How does Cerazette work?
What are the benefits of Cerazette?
How effective is Cerazette?
Who can and cannot use Evra patches?
How do I take Cerazette?
How long can I take it for?
What lifestyle changes should I make on Cerazette?
What are the side effects of Cerazette?
How to manage side effects
What interacts with Cerazette?
What safety advice should I follow while taking Cerazette?
How should I store Cerazette?
Can I buy Cerazette without a prescription?
How do I buy Cerazette online from euroClinix?
Why should I choose euroClinix?
How much does Cerazette cost?
What alternatives are available?
What is Cerazette (Desogestrel)?
Desogestrel is a progestogen-only hormonal contraceptive pill (‘mini pill’) that prevents the user from becoming pregnant. When taken daily for your entire menstrual cycle, it releases progestogen to prevent fertilisation.
Its branded version, Cerazette, is manufactured by Organon and was first approved in Europe in November 1998. It has since become one of the most reliable and widely used contraceptive options for women who cannot take oestrogen.
At euroClinix, we prescribe Cerazette or generic Desogestrel contraceptive pills for preventing pregnancy.
Is Desogestrel the same as Cerazette?
Yes, the branded and generic versions of this birth control pill are medically equivalent, meaning they contain the same active ingredient and produce the same effect. The only notable differences between the two are the manufacturer and the price.
How does Cerazette work?
Cerazette is known as a ‘mini pill’, meaning it only contains progestogen. These differ from combined contraceptive pills, which do contain oestrogen. When taken orally, the active ingredient desogestrel rapidly converts in the liver into etonogestrel—a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone.
This binds to progesterone receptors, preventing pregnancy in three core ways:
How Cerazette prevents pregnancy
Cerazette thickens the mucus in your cervix (the opening to your womb), making it harder for sperm to travel through and reach an egg.
Stops ovulation
In most women, Cerazette prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. If there’s no egg, you can’t get pregnant.
Thins womb lining
Cerazette makes the lining of your womb, the endometrium, thinner. This means that even if an egg were fertilised, it would have difficulty attaching to the womb to develop.
What are the benefits of Cerazette?
There are many benefits to making Cerazette your contraceptive pill of choice.
Key benefits of Cerazette
Oestrogen-free
Contains only progestogen, making it suitable for women who cannot take contraceptives containing oestrogen, such as smokers over 35.
Convenient daily dosing
Simple-to-use pill taken at the same time each day for reliable protection.
Improved menstrual experience.
Many women experience lighter periods or no periods at all, with reduced pain and discomfort during menstruation.
Lower risk of blood clots
Compared to contraceptives containing oestrogen, Cerazette has a lower risk of blood clots and related complications.
Quick return to fertility
Most women can conceive again within a few weeks after they stop taking Cerazette, making it suitable for those planning pregnancy in the future.
Non-invasive treatment option
No need for insertion procedures as required with rings, implants, or IUDs, making it a less invasive contraceptive choice.
How effective is Cerazette?
When taken exactly as prescribed, the mini pill Desogestrel is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, with typical use, its effectiveness drops to around 91%.
One study involving 1,320 women compared the effectiveness of 75 mcg Desogestrel contraceptive pills with 30 mcg Levonorgestrel tablets. Women were randomly assigned one of the treatments, and the number of pregnancies was observed over 13 consecutive treatment periods of 28 days (364 days total).
The results showed:
- Desogestrel (Cerazette): 1 pregnancy per 727 women using Cerazette for a year, translating to an effectiveness rate of over 99% (perfect use).
- Levonorgestrel: 3 pregnancies in 257 women using Levonorgestrel for a year—an effectiveness rate of just under 99% (perfect use).
Who can and cannot use Evra patches?
This medication is not suitable for everyone. When you complete a consultation, our UK-registered doctors will determine whether Cerazette is safe for you.
Who can take it?
To be prescribed Cerazette or generic Desogestrel, you must be a woman over 18 years of age.
Who cannot take it?
You cannot take Cerazette if any of the following apply:
- You are allergic to Desogestrel or any other ingredient found in this medicine
- You currently have a thrombosis (blood clot), e.g. deep vein thrombosis
- You have ever had jaundice (yellowing of the skin) or severe liver disease
- You have a hormone-sensitive cancer (e.g. certain types of breast cancer)
- You have unexplained vaginal bleeding
Cautions
In addition to these, some conditions mean the safety of Cerazette will need to be determined in your consultation. Tell your doctor if:
- You have ever had breast cancer
- You have liver cancer
- You have ever had a blood clot
- You have diabetes
- You suffer from epilepsy
- You have tuberculosis
- You have high blood pressure
- You have ever had chloasma (pigmentation patches on the skin)
Please disclose your health status during your online consultation with euroClinix. Our clinical team will evaluate whether Cerazette is suitable for you and may adjust your medications if needed.
How do I take Cerazette?
To use Cerazette correctly, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the drug's effectiveness and helps avoid side effects.
Dosage
Each strip contains 28 tablets - one for each day of a full menstrual cycle. Arrows are printed on the front of the strip, and the days of the week are printed on the back.
Each tablet contains 75 mcg of desogestrel.
You need to take 1 tablet daily. Start with the day of the week it is when you start treatment, and continue until there are none left. Once a strip is complete, start your next one on the next day without interruption. Treatment is to be continued indefinitely.
When do I take it?
If you're not currently using hormonal contraception |
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Switching from a combined pill, vaginal ring, or patch (no break) |
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Switching from a combined pill, vaginal ring, or patch (after break) |
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Switching from another mini pill |
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Switching from an injection, implant, or hormonal IUS |
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After having a baby |
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After a miscarriage or an abortion |
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What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of a contraceptive pill like Cerazette, you leave yourself more at risk of becoming pregnant. What you do next will depend on how late you are.
Use our interactive tool below to find out what to do if you have missed a pill or if you experience vomiting or diarrhoea.
Use our interactive tool below on what to do if you miss one or multiple pills in one month (menstrual cycle). Simply click to begin.
Missed pill, what should I do?
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the pack as normal.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the pack as normal.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill and take the active (21) pills as per the normal schedule.
2) Skip the pill-free break.
3) Start the new pill pack straight away.
If your pill pack contains 21 tablets, your 4th week should be a pill-free week if you have not chosen to skip it. This means you should still be fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up.
The combined pill may not be as effective. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal. You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex for the following 7 days.
If you vomited within 3-4 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 24 hours before your usual pill time. As long as you are not sick again, you should still be protected against pregnancy. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the pack as normal.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the pack as normal.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill and take the active (21) pills as per normal schedule.
2) Skip the inactive (placebo) pills / the pill-free break.
3) Start the new pill pack straight away.
If you missed an inactive pill (placebo), in the 4th week of your cycle, you will still be protected from pregnancy.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up.
The combined pill may not be as effective. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal. You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex for the following 7 days.
If you vomited within 3-4 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 24 hours before your usual pill time. As long as you are not sick again, you should still be protected against pregnancy. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
The combined pill may not be as effective. If intercourse took place in the week prior, the possibility of a pregnancy should be considered. Contact a doctor for advice and consider using an emergency contraceptive method.
You should keep these key points about taking this pill in mind:
1) The more 'white active tablets' are missed and the closer the missed tablets are to the 4 yellow placebo tablets, the higher the risk of pregnancy.
2) 7 days of uninterrupted 'active tablet'-taking are required to attain adequate protection against pregnancy. If you have trouble remembering to take your pill consistently, you should speak to your doctor for advice.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the pack as normal.
Provided you have only missed one pill and taken the pills correctly the week prior, you should still be protected against pregnancy.
You should:
1) Take the missed pill or start a new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal. You may need to take two pills in one day.
If you have missed more than 1 tablet or have not taken the pills consistently the week pior, you should use a barrier contraceptive method for the following 7 days.
If you have missed a pill in the last week of active tablets, the risk of pregnancy is higher. You should still be protected if you have taken the active pills uninterrupted the 7 days before and you take the following advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal. You may need to take two pills in one day.
If you have missed more than 1 tablet or have not taken the pills consistently the week prior, you should use a barrier contraceptive method for the following 7 days.
If you missed one of the last 4 pills of the pill pack, it should have no impact as these are hormone-free pills. You should:
1) Dispose of the missed pill and take the next scheduled pill at the correct time, ensuring you don't go longer than 4 days before you start a new pack with active pills.
2) You can also start a new pill pack straight away. This changes the first day of your cycle.
If you had sex the week before missing your pill, you may be at risk of pregnancy. Contact your doctor for advice and consider using an emergency contraceptive method. You should also follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal. You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
The combined pill may not be as effective. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal. You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
If you vomited within 3-4 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 24 hours before your usual pill time. As long as you are not sick again, you should still be protected against pregnancy. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
You should still be protected against pregnancy if you experienced a few episodes of diarrhoea in a day/for less than 24 hours. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up.
The protection against pregnancy will not be reduced if it has been less 12 hours. But, you should still take the following advice to ensure protection:
1) Take the tablet as soon as you remember.
2) Then take the next tablets at the usual time.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up.
The protection against pregnancy will be reduced. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 9 days.
The protection against pregnancy may be reduced. For multiphasic pills, the advice on missed pills will depend on where in the cycle you are, and on which pill brand you are taking. Follow the advice below:
1) Always familiarise yourself with the instructions in the patient information leaflet (PIL) that comes with your pill packs.
2) Take note of when in your cycle you missed your pill - the advice will differ based on this.
- 2.1 At the beginning of your cycle you should take the missed pill and continue taking the pill as per the normal schedule. You should use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex the following 9 days to ensure protection against pregnancy.
- 2.2 If the missed pill was towards the end of your cycle you may be advised to skip the pill and start a new cycle (take the 1st pill of a new pill pack).
If you forget to take an inactive/placebo pill (the last pills in the pill pack), you do not need to take them later, as they do not contain active substances. But you should throw away the white tablet(s) you forgot to take, so that you do not prolong the period of inactive tablets. Prolongation may increase the risk of pregnancy. Continue to take the next tablet at the usual time. This is only relevant if you are taking a multiphasic pill with 28 pills (not 21).
If you vomited within 3 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 24 hours after your normal pill time. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
If you are less than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet as soon as possible, even if this means taking 2 tablets on the same day. This will ensure that contraceptive protection is maintained.
If you have missed a pill in the first week of your cycle, you should:
1) Take the last missed tablet as soon as possible and then continue to take the rest of the tablets in the normal manner.
2) Use extra contraceptive protection, such as a condom, or refrain from sex, for the next 7 days.
3) If you had sex in that 1st week (without additional contraception), you could become pregnant. Contact your doctor for advice as soon as possible. They may recommend you use emergency contraception. You should still continue taking your pill as normal.
If you are late by more than 12 hours, take the last missed tablet as soon as possible and then continue to take the rest of the tablets in the normal manner. In addition, use extra contraceptive protection, such as a condom for the next 7 days.
If you have fewer than seven tablets in your blister strip after you have missed taking a dose, you should:
1) Complete the blister strip and start the next blister strip without a break.
This will give you protection from when you took the last missed tablet. You may not have a period until the end of two blister strips, but this will not harm you. You may also have some bleeding on days when you take the tablets.
If you vomited within 3 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 24 hours after your normal pill time. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancies. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have missed more than one pill, you should:
1) Take the most recently missed pill and skip any previously missed pills.
2) Take your next pills as normal (this could mean taking two pills in one day)
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
4) If you had sex in that 1st week (without additional contraception), you could become pregnant. Contact your doctor for advice as soon as possible. They may recommend you use emergency contraception. You should still continue taking your pill as normal.
If you have missed more than one pill, you should:
1) Take the most recent missed pill (skip any previously missed pills)
2) Take your next pills as normal (this could mean taking two pills in one day)
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
If you missed a pill and have less than 7 pills left of your pack, you should:
1) Take the most recent missed pill (skip any previously missed pills)
2) Take your next pills as normal (this could mean taking two pills in one day)
3) When you finish the strip of pills, start the next strip the next day without a break.
4) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
5) If you do not have a withdrawal bleed after you have finished the second strip, do a pregnancy test before starting another strip.
The desogestrel pill may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the less effective your contraception is. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can (as long as it is taken within 12 hours of your normal time).
2) Continue the pack as normal.
The desogestrel pill may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the less effective your contraception is. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and consider using an emergency contraceptive. Please note you should continue taking the pill as normal if you have used emergency contraception.
The desogestrel pill may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the less effective your contraception is. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
If you vomited within 3 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 12 hours after your normal pill time. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the mini pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
Your contraception may not be as effective. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the last missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
You will not be protected against pregnancy if you have missed more than 2 pills. Unless a pregnancy can be ruled out, you should stop taking it until it can be confirmed (e.g. from a pregnancy test). If pregnancy can be ruled out, follow the advice below:
1) Continue taking the pill where you left off (or start a new pill pack).
2) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
3) After seven days of taking the pill at a regular time, you will be protected again.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the pill as soon as you can (no later than 3 hours from your normal time)
2) Continue the pack as normal.
Your contraception may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the less effective your contraception is. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and consider using an emergency contraceptive. Please note you should continue taking the pill as normal if you have used emergency contraception.
Your contraception may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the less effective your contraception is. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 2 days.
If you vomited within 2 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 3 hours after your normal pill time. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the mini pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
Your contraception may not be as effective. You should follow the below advice:
1) The more pills you have missed, the more the effect against pregnancy is reduced.
2) Take the last missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
3) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
4) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
5) If this happened in the 1st week of the cycle (one or more of the first 7 pills), and you had sex the week before, you may be pregnant. Speak to your doctor for advice.
You are still fully protected, as long as you:
1) Take the pill as soon as you can (no later than 24 hours from your normal time).
2) Continue the pack as normal.
Your contraception may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the more the effecicacy reduced. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
You should still be protected against pregnancy as long as you:
1) Take the missed pill and take the rest of the active pills as per normal schedule (24 pills).
2) Skip the 4 inactive (placebo) pills and start the new pill pack straight away.
You will now have a different start day of your cycle.
If you missed one of the last 4 pills of the pill pack it should have no impact (as these are hormone-free pills). You should:
1) Dispose of the missed pill and take the next scheduled pill at the correct time.
2) Be aware that only a specific type of mini pill brands contain inactive pills, and these should be clearly indicated and have a different colour to the rest of the pills (containing hormones). The instructions will be different if you have missed an active pill.
You may be at risk of pregnancy. Please see your own doctor for advice and follow-up. They may suggest you use a form of emergency contraception. You can continue taking your pills as normal if you have used an emergency contraception. You should also use a barrier method (such as a condom) if you have sex over the next 7 days.
Your contraception may not be as effective. The more pills you forget to take, the more the effecicacy reduced. You should follow the below advice:
1) Take the missed pill or start the new pill pack as soon as you can.
2) Continue the rest of the pack as normal (at your normal time). You may need to take two pills in one day.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following 7 days.
If you vomited within 3-4 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill no longer than 24 hours after your normal pill time. If you are sick again or you do not take a new pill, your contraception will not be effective. If that is the case, retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you experienced severe diarrhoea within 3 hours of taking the pill, you should take a new pill as soon as you can, and after no longer than 24 hours than your normal pill time. As long as you are feeling better and do not continue having diarrhoea, you should still be protected against pregnancy.
If you had severe diarrhoea within 3-4 hours of taking your pill and you have not taken a new one (within 24 hours of the normal pill time), or continue to have diarrhoea, you may not be protected. Retake this quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
You should still be protected against pregnancy. Take your next pill as per your usual schedule.
If you have had severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, the pill may not have been fully absorbed and therefore may not be as effective. You should treat every 24 hours of severe diarrhoea as a missed pill. Retake the quiz and follow the advice for a missed pill.
On rare occasions, the contraceptive vaginal ring can break. Vaginal damage has been reported in connection with the ring breaking. If you discover that your ring has broken, follow the below advice:
1) Dispose of that ring and insert a new ring as soon as possible.
2) Use additional contraception (eg a male condom) for the next 7 days.
3) Contact your doctor if you had intercourse before you discovered that the ring was broken.
If you are being sick (vomiting) or have diarrhoea, the contraceptive ring is still effective (unlike when you are taking the pill).
If you are being sick (vomiting) or have diarrhoea, the contraceptive ring is still effective (unlike when you are taking the pill).
If your ring-free break was no longer than 7 days, you are still protected from pregnancy. You should follow the below advice:
1) Put the new ring in as soon as possible (at your normal insertion time)
2) Replace the ring as per your normal schedule (1 ring should be replaced every seven days, at the same time)
If the ring-free break was longer than 7 days, you may not be protected against pregnancy. The longer the ring-free break lasts, the higher the risk of becoming pregnant. Follow the below advice:
1) Insert a new ring as soon as you remember.
2) Use additional contraception (such as a male condom) if you have intercourse in the next 7 days.
3) If you had intercourse during the ring-free break, there is a possibility that you could be pregnant. Talk to your doctor immediately and consider using a form of emergency contraception.
If the ring has been out of the vagina for less than 3 hours, it will still protect you from pregnancy. You should follow the below advice:
1) Wash the ring in cold or lukewarm water (do not use hot water).
2) Put the ring back in as soon as possible.
3) Replace the ring as per your normal schedule (1 ring should be replaced every seven days, at the same time).
You may not be protected against pregnancy. Take a pregnancy test and consult a doctor before inserting a new ring.
If the ring has been out of the vagina for more than 3 hours, you may not be protected against pregnancy. You should:
1) Wash the ring in cold or lukewarm water (do not use hot water)
2) Reinsert the ring into the vagina as soon as you remember, and leave the ring in place without interruption for at least 7 days.
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following seven days.
4) If you are in your 1st week and you had intercourse in the previous 7 days, there is a possibility that you could be pregnant. In this case, you must contact your doctor.
You may not be protected against pregnancy. You should dispose of that ring and choose one of the following two possibilities:
1) Insert a new ring immediately.
2) This will start the next 3-week period with the ring.
3) You may not have a period, but breakthrough bleeding and spotting may occur.
OR
1) Do not insert a new ring.
2) Have a period first and insert a new ring no later than 7 days from the time the previous ring was removed or fell out.
3) You should only choose this option if you have used NuvaRing continuously for the last 7 days.
If you are being sick (vomiting) or have diarrhoea, the contraceptive patch is still effective (unlike when you are taking the pill).
If you are being sick (vomiting) or have diarrhoea, the contraceptive patch is still effective (unlike when you are taking the pill).
Follow the below advice to ensure you are still protected:
1) Try to attach it again or put on a new transdermal patch immediately (so it has been off for less than 24 hours).
2) Use a new patch if the other one is no longer sticky, has stuck together or to something or if it's fallen off before (do not attempt to use tape or wraps to stick the old one back on).
3) Your "patch change day" must remain unchanged.
The patch may not be as effective. The longer you have been without the patch, the less effective your contraception will be. You should follow the advice below:
1) Immediately start a new 4-week cycle by applying a new transdermal patch.
2) You now have a new day 1 and a new "patch change day".
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following seven days (the 1st week of the new cycle).
The patch may not be as effective. The longer you have been without the patch, the less effective your contraception will be. You should follow the advice below:
1) Immediately start a new 4-week cycle by applying a new transdermal patch.
2) You now have a new day 1 and a new "patch change day".
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following seven days (the 1st week of the new cycle).
Follow the below advice to ensure you are still protected:
1) Try to attach it again or put on a new transdermal patch immediately (so it has been off for less than 24 hours).
2) Use a new patch if the other one is no longer sticky, has stuck together or to something or if it's fallen off before (do not attempt to use tape or wraps to stick the old one back on).
3) Your "patch change day" must remain unchanged.
The patch may not be as effective. The longer you have been without the patch, the less effective your contraception will be. You should follow the advice below:
1) Immediately start a new 4-week cycle by applying a new transdermal patch.
2) You now have a new day 1 and a new "patch change day".
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following seven days (the 1st week of the new cycle).
The patch may not be as effective. The longer you have been without the patch, the less effective your contraception will be. You should follow the advice below:
1) Immediately start a new 4-week cycle by applying a new transdermal patch.
2) You now have a new day 1 and a new "patch change day".
3) Use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following seven days (the 1st week of the new cycle).
If you forget to put on the transdermal patch in your cycle's 1st week, you may have a particularly high risk of becoming pregnant. Follow the advice below:
1) You must use additional non-hormonal contraception for one week (seven days).
2) Put on the first patch of the new cycle as soon as you remember.
3) You now have a new day 1 and a new "patch change day".
If you are on the 4th week of the cycle, you should still be protected against pregnancies. If you left the patch on for too long (forgot to remove it), take it off as soon as you remember. Follow the below advice to stay protected:
1) Start the next cycle on the usual "patch change day", the day after day 28.
2) Continue replacing them weekly, on the same day at the same time.
3) There is no need for additional contraception.
You should still be protected, provided you follow the below advice:
1) Attach a new patch as soon as you remember (within 48 hours).
2) Replace the following patch on the usual "patch change day".
3) No additional contraception is necessary.
If you forget to change the patch for more than 2 days, you can become pregnant. The longer you have been without the patch, the lower the effectiveness will be. You should follow the advice below:
1) Immediately start a new 4-week cycle by applying a new patch.
2) You now have a new day 1 and a new "patch change day".
3) You must use a barrier contraceptive method if you have sex, for the following seven days (1st week of cycle).
How long can I take it for?
You can take Cerazette or generic Desogestrel for as long as you need contraception. This is typically until menopause, but you can stop earlier if you wish.
From the day you stop you are no longer protected from pregnancy. You can stop at any time.
What lifestyle changes should I make on Cerazette?
When taking contraceptive medication, there are some things you can do to ensure treatment success and support general health.
Your Cerazette lifestyle guide
Maintain a healthy weight
Focus on iron-rich foods, like red meat and spinach, and stay well-hydrated to manage side effects and support hormone regulation.
Develop an exercise routine
Regular physical activity helps manage weight fluctuations and releases endorphins to counteract mood changes.
Monitor mood and mental health
Track changes in mood or anxiety and speak with your healthcare provider if you notice worrying shifts.
Take care of your skin and hair
Maintain a consistent skincare routine with gentle products if you experience increased sensitivity or acne.
Take note of hormonal changes
Track bleeding patterns and take note of any changes related to your hormones.
Focus on foods rich in healthy fats like salmon, nuts, and avocados to support hormone balance, and include leafy greens and vitamin C-rich fruits in your diet to help manage any potential bloating or fluid retention.
Silvia Fonda
Nutritionist
What are the side effects of Cerazette?
Taking Cerazette can cause unwanted side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Vaginal bleeding is the most likely side effect, and it can vary in severity. Consult your doctor if bleeding is heavy or prolonged.
Other Cerazette side effects include:
Common side effects
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Uncommon side effects
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Rare side effects
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An allergic reaction may also occur, but it is unknown how likely this is. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
How to manage side effects
How to manage side effects
While most side effects should go away once your body gets used to the medication, some may be persistent or bothersome. Here’s how to manage the most common side effects:
Irregular menstrual bleeding
Track your cycle to try and determine a pattern, and always carry pads or tampons in case of unexpected bleeding.
Altered mood
Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help with changes in mood. Try some mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation when you are stressed.
Acne or skin issues
Adjust your skincare routine to include gentle products that won’t clog your pores.
Headaches and nausea
Drink plenty of water, reduce your caffeine intake, and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Breast pain or tenderness
Wear a supportive, comfortable bra and limit salt intake, as excess salt can cause water retention, making breasts feel more tender.
If side effects persist or worsen, please consult with your healthcare provider.
Make sure you take your pill at the same time every day to ensure a steady flow of hormones and reduce the risk of hormonal imbalance. If changes in mood are extreme, make sure you consult a doctor.
Dr. Caroline Fontana
Lead Prescribing Doctor
For more detailed information on side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet.
What interacts with Cerazette?
Some medicines can impact the effectiveness of Cerazette pills or increase the risk of side effects. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take in your consultation, including the following:
Medicines that can increase the risk of side effects
- Antibiotics (e.g. Clarithromycin, Erythromycin)
Medicines that can make Cerazette less effective
- Epilepsy treatments (e.g. Phenytoin, Carbamazepine)
- Tuberculosis treatments (e.g. Rifampicin, Rifabutin)
- HIV treatments (e.g. Ritonavir, Nelfinavir)
- Hepatitis C treatments (e.g. Bocepravir, Telapravir)
- Pulmonary hypertension treatments (e.g. Bosentan)
- Herbal preparations containing St John’s wort
Medicines that can cause unexpected bleeding
- Antifungals (e.g. Ketoconazole, Itraconazole)
This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please visit the interactions checker on the BNF website.
What safety advice should I follow while taking Cerazette?
Make sure you follow the safety guidelines detailed below during treatment. This ensures safety and reduces the risk of side effects.
Safety Tips
Pregnancy
Avoid
Do not use Cerazette if you are pregnant or suspect you might be. If pregnancy occurs during use, discontinue and consult your doctor.
Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor
Cerazette may be used while breastfeeding, but a small amount of the active substance passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before use.
Alcohol
Caution
Limit alcohol intake while taking Cerazette, as excessive consumption may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness.
Driving
Caution
Cerazette can cause side effects like dizziness. If affected, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
Smoking
Caution
Smoking can increase the risk of blood clotting, especially if you are over 35 years of age. Although this is more common with combined contraceptives than with mini pills, you will benefit greatly from quitting smoking.
Breast Cancer
Consult your doctor
Regularly check your breasts and inform your doctor if you notice any lumps. There is a slightly increased risk of breast cancer with hormonal contraceptive use.
How should I store Cerazette?
Cerazette and generic Desogestrel pills do not require any special storage instructions. Follow these general guidelines when storing your medicine.
- Keep away from direct light and moisture
- Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children
- Do not use after the expiry date
Disposal
Do not throw away medicines via wastewater or household waste.
Take any unused medication to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. These measures help to protect the environment.
Can I buy Cerazette without a prescription?
No, you cannot buy Cerazette or generic Desogestrel tablets over the counter. This medication can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Prescriptions are necessary because they:
- Ensure appropriate use for your specific condition.
- Prevent potential misuse and associated health risks.
- Allow for monitoring of side effects and interactions with other medications.
How do I buy Cerazette online from euroClinix?
Ordering Cerazette online from euroClinix is convenient.
Follow these simple steps:
- Complete a quick online consultation to check your eligibility.
- UK-registered doctors review your responses to ensure the medication is right for you.
- Upon approval, an e-prescription will be issued.
- Enjoy free delivery from our licensed pharmacy with tracking details.
Your privacy is our top priority. euroClinix uses secure, encrypted transactions and complies with UK medical standards to keep your information confidential.
Start your online consultation today to enjoy professional care from the comfort of your home.
Why should I choose euroClinix?
euroClinix is trusted by thousands of UK users for its safe and convenient service. Here’s why:
- Experienced doctors manage your consultations and prescriptions.
- Online consultations, quick approvals, and discreet doorstep delivery add to the convenience.
- A supportive team is on hand to answer treatment-related questions or concerns.
- Patients can manage their prescriptions hassle-free through our secure platform.
Join thousands who trust euroClinix for their healthcare needs and take control of your health today.
How much does Cerazette cost?
The price of Cerazette at euroClinix includes everything you need:
- Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
- Free prescription, if approved
- Free delivery straight to your door
Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.
What alternatives are available?
The birth control pill Desogestrel is not the only available contraception method.
There are many options when it comes to choosing the right contraceptive, and we at euroClinix want you to have all the information before you make a decision. Please consult this helpful table below to see all your options.
Comparison of oral contraceptives
Choose what to compare:
| Medication | Pills | Active ingredients | Effectiveness | How to use | Best suited for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cerazette | Progesterone-only pills (mini pills) | Desogestrel | Highly effective | Take 1 tablet daily for long-term contraception | Reliable ovulation suppression; less strict timing requirements | - |
| Noriday | Progesterone-only pills (mini pills) | Norethisterone | Effective | Take 1 tablet daily for long-term contraception | Take 1 tablet daily for long-term contraception | - |
| Qlaira | Combined contraceptive pills | Estradiol valerate, Dienogest | Highly effective | Take 1 tablet daily for long-term contraception | An effective pill containing oestrogen | - |
| Yasmin | Combined contraceptive pills | Ethinylestradiol, Drospirenone | Highly effective | Take 1 tablet daily for 21 days, then a 7-day break | Those prone to water retention or acne | - |
| Zoely | Combined contraceptive pills | Estradiol, Nomegestrol acetate | Highly effective | Take 1 tablet daily for long-term contraception | An effective option containing bioidentical oestrogen | - |
| Eloine | Combined contraceptive pills | Ethinylestradiol, Drospirenone | Highly effective | Take 1 tablet daily for 24 days, then 4-day placebo | A lower dose Yasmin alternative | - |
| Femodene | Combined contraceptive pills | Ethinylestradiol, Gestodene | Highly effective | Take 1 tablet daily for 21 days, then a 7-day break | A well-trusted pill with an established safety profile | - |
If you would prefer a non-oral contraceptive, consider the Evra Patch or the NuvaRing.
Cerazette FAQs
Does the Desogestrel pill stop periods?
How long does it take for Desogesrel to stop periods?
Can I take 2 Desogestrel to stop bleeding?
Can you take Desogestrel and HRT together?
Is Desogestrel a combined pill?
Does Desogestrel cause weight gain?
Does Desogestrel stop ovulation?
How long after stopping Desogestrel will I get a period?
Can I take Desogestrel for endometriosis?
Are there any discounts for being a new user?
Is it safe to buy Cerazette online?
Will my order be confidential?
What are the delivery options available?
Note: You must complete a short online consultation so that our doctor can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you. The above pricing should only be used as a reference. The final decision to issue this treatment lies with the prescribing doctor.
| Type of medicine | Progestogen-only contraceptive pill |
| Used for | Preventing pregnancy |
| Active ingredient(s) | Desogestrel |
| Works by | Thickening cervical mucus, preventing ovulation, and thinning the lining of the womb |
| Effective within | Immediately (when started during the first five days of your period) |
| Available as | Tablets (mini pill) |
| Available dosage(s) | 75 mcg |
| Usage instructions | Take 1 pill daily for your entire 28-day cycle. Repeat this indefinitely |
| Manufacturer | Cerazette - Organon Generic Desogestrel - various |
| Generic available | Yes, generic Desogestrel pills |
| Storage | Store in the original packaging and protect from direct heat and moisture |
| Prescription required? | Yes, get one with our FREE online consultation |
| Who is suitable for an online consultation* | Women over 18 looking for contraception |
*Note: Our medical team must review your online consultation before approving this treatment. They will determine if the requested treatment and quantity are safe, appropriate, and effective for you.
Cerazette reviews
Excellent
4.9
320 patients have reviewed Cerazette on Trustpilot
Excellent
4.9
320 patients have reviewed Cerazette on Trustpilot
21 Feb
All good as usual ! Thank you.
Sandrine PetitFurther reading
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