Hana
Contraceptive Mini Pill

Hana is a type of contraceptive pill known as the mini pill or progestogen-only pill (POP). It contains desogestrel, a synthetic hormone that mimics progesterone, a natural female hormone involved in regulating the menstrual cycle. Hana is an effective option for women who cannot use oestrogen-based contraception, including those with high blood pressure, who are over 35, smoke, or are overweight.

Hana works by thickening cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg. It also prevents ovulation by stopping egg release from the ovaries. These combined actions make Hana a highly effective contraceptive, although it cannot be used as emergency contraception.

When taken correctly, Hana is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, user errors like missed pills or illness (such as vomiting or diarrhoea) can reduce its effectiveness to approximately 92%. Consistent and proper use is essential for optimal protection.

Take Hana daily at the same time each day without breaks between packs. Start with the pill labelled with the correct day of the week and follow the arrows on the pack. Once you finish a pack, begin a new one immediately the next day. If you miss a pill by less than 12 hours, take it as soon as you remember and continue as normal. If you are more than 12 hours late, additional contraception like condoms is needed for the next 7 days.

If you start Hana on the first day of your period, it protects against pregnancy immediately. If you begin on days 2-5 of your cycle, you need to use condoms for the first 7 days of taking the pill.

• Less than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, and continue with your next pill at the usual time. You’ll remain protected.

• More than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, but use condoms or another form of contraception for the next 7 days. If unprotected sex occurred during this time, you may need emergency contraception.

Common side effects (affecting up to 1 in 10 women) may include mood changes, headaches, acne, nausea, irregular bleeding, and breast tenderness. Less common side effects include vaginal infections, hair loss, and fatigue. Rare side effects include skin rashes and erythema nodosum (painful red lumps). Side effects often subside after the first three months as your body adjusts to the pill.

Yes, Hana is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Although a small amount of desogestrel passes into breast milk, it has no known effects on the baby's growth or development.

No, Hana must not be used if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

Hana is an over-the-counter contraceptive pill, offering convenient access without a prescription. It provides reliable protection for women who cannot use oestrogen-based methods and is suitable for breastfeeding mothers.

Hana and Cerazette contain the same active ingredient 75 micrograms of desogestrel and work in the exact same way.

You can order Hana directly from My London Pharmacy. Simply complete a quick online consultation, and our licensed clinicians will review your health to determine if this treatment is suitable for your condition. Once approved, we’ll provide fast, discreet delivery across the UK, ensuring your privacy throughout the process.