Starting a POP containing levonorgestrel or norethisterone

If a POP containing levonorgestrel or norethisterone is preferred, use:

1 levonorgestrel 30 micrograms orally, once daily at the same time each day (must not be more than 3 hours late) contraception, oral progestogen-only levonorgestrel levonorgestrel levonorgestrel

OR

1 norethisterone 350 micrograms orally, once daily at the same time each day (must not be more than 3 hours late). contraception, oral progestogen-only norethisterone    

Note: POPs that contain levonorgestrel or norethisterone should be taken at the same time each day; they must not be more than 3 hours late.

Advise users of a POP containing levonorgestrel or norethisterone:

  • they need to be meticulous about taking the POP at the same time each day
  • what to do if a pill is more than 3 hours late (missed)
  • there are no inactive pills and no hormone-free intervals (unlike combined hormonal contraception)
  • that poor absorption or some drug interactions can reduce the effectiveness of the POP, requiring use of an additional method of contraception.