Hana

Hana is a progesterone-only pill (mini pill) containing desogestrel, a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone. It is over 99% effective when taken correctly and is suitable for women who cannot use oestrogen-based contraception or have high blood pressure, are smokers, or are over 35.

Hana prevents pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus to block sperm and stopping ovulation. These dual actions make it a reliable contraceptive, though it is not suitable as emergency contraception.

Take the combined pill daily for 21 days, then stop for 7 days (or take inactive pills in ED packs). You’re still protected during the 7-day break.

If you miss a pill, take it within 12 hours to maintain effectiveness. If more than 12 hours late, it counts as a missed pill, and extra precautions like condoms are needed for 7 days.

Common side effects, affecting around 1 in 10 women, include mood changes, feeling depressed, reduced sex drive (libido), headaches, nausea, acne, breast pain, irregular or missed periods, and weight gain.

Less common side effects, experienced by up to 1 in 100 women, may include vaginal infections, difficulty wearing contact lenses, vomiting, hair loss, painful periods, ovarian cysts, and fatigue.

Rare side effects, affecting about 1 in 1,000 women, include skin rash, hives, and painful red-blue skin lumps known as erythema nodosum.

If you experience severe allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

Side effects often subside within the first three months of starting Hana as your body adjusts to the medication. If side effects persist or become difficult to manage, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse for advice.