Can the contraceptive pill affect sleep?

Does the pill cause insomnia?

Does the pill make you tired?

Can progesterone make you tired?

What can you do about sleep problems caused by the pill?

References

Feeling more tired than usual? Can’t sleep at all? Wondering if it’s a side effect from the pill? Insomnia, tiredness and fatigue aren’t common side effects of contraceptive pills, but that doesn’t mean they’re not possible. Hormonal changes can impact how you sleep, and hormonal contraception alters the hormone levels in your body throughout your cycle.

There are two types of hormonal contraceptive pills and they can affect people differently. A combined pill contains oestrogen and a progestogen, and mini-pills (also known as progestogen-only pills) contain – you guessed it – only progestogen. Hana® is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill that contains the active ingredient desogestrel.

Now, let’s get one thing straight: while insomnia isn’t explicitly listed as a known side effect for either pill type, tiredness and fatigue are possible side effects from the pill. If you’re wrestling with sleep issues that you suspect might be linked to your daily contraceptive – or if you’re concerned about potential sleep disruptions as you start to use a daily contraceptive pill – keep reading.

Does the pill cause insomnia?

Insomnia is not thought to be a side effect of the pill. However, if you’re struggling with sleeplessness and suspect a connection to your pill use, it’s wise to have a chat with your GP or pharmacist.

If you started taking the pill recently, it’s also important to think about other lifestyle factors and changes that may have occurred around the time you started taking the pill, such as stress or changes to your routine.

Does the pill make you tired?

Tiredness is an uncommon side effect of Hana®, this means it affects 1 in 100 people who use it. However, some of the more common side effects of starting new medication could potentially be tiring to deal with initially. If you feel this might be the case for you, it could help to speak to your GP about ways of dealing with those side effects.

Can progesterone make you tired?

Yes, there are links between progesterone and sleep. Progesterone is responsible for preparing the uterine lining for an egg to implant and grow, and it’s normal to feel a little extra tired after ovulating when progesterone levels in your body are at their highest (this would be roughly week 3 of a 4-week cycle).

However, desogestrel is a synthetic progestogen designed to be used as a contraceptive and it is not identical to the progesterone that your body produces. Progestogens affect the body’s progesterone receptors but carry out their own specific functions. In desogestrel’s case, these are stopping ovulation and thickening the mucus in the cervix to stop sperm from reaching the egg. Desogestrel does still carry some side effects, but the risk of tiredness and fatigue is low. It may affect up to 1 in 100 people

What can you do about sleep problems caused by the pill?

If you want help getting more sleep or to combat fatigue caused by birth control, you do have a few options.

Making sure that you’re getting enough exercise, water and food are very important and could help you to stay healthy and deal with the effects of any sleeping problems caused by the pill. Going outside to see some (indirect) morning sunlight can also help you feel more energised throughout the day, as can managing stress and listening to your body so you’re not pushing yourself too hard.

You could consider what time you take the pill and whether that plays a role. If you take your daily contraceptive pill in the morning and feel exhausted all day, you could consider switching to taking it at night. If you take it in the evening and you’ve been struggling to sleep, maybe take it in the morning instead. As the pill is most effective when taken at the same time every day, you should use a barrier method of contraception if you have sex during the first 7 days of this change.

If the symptoms you experience while taking the pill carry on for several weeks after you begin taking it, it could be a good idea to speak to your GP about it. They may recommend switching to a different method of contraception.

If you need to know more about side effects from the Hana® or want to know more about what time you should take the pill, check out our Ask Hana® section where we answer all of your questions about the progestogen-only pill. You can also visit our blog for features on sex, family planning, and much more.

Hana® 75µg film-coated tablets contains desogestrel and is an oral contraception for women of child bearing age to prevent pregnancy. Always read the instructions on the package leaflet carefully.

References

https://patient.info/doctor/progestogens

https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/progesterone/#side-effects

https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/desogestrel/#side-effects

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563211/

How effective is the Hana contraceptive pill?

How effective is desogestrel?

How long before desogestrel is effective?

How do you take Hana®?

Is Hana® suitable for everyone?

How can I get Hana®?

References

Choosing a method of contraception can be a difficult decision. There are many factors to consider, such as your health, any medications you’re taking, whether you prefer hormonal or non hormonal, and if you prefer to take your birth control every day or opt for a long acting reversible method. One of the most important factors to consider if you don’t want to get pregnant is how effective your contraceptive method is.

Hana® is a progestogen-only pill that contains desogestrel, a synthetic hormone that mimics the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. Hana® is the best selling contraceptive pill available to buy over the counter in the UK*. It can help prevent pregnancy by:

Preventing ovulation, so no egg is released and any sperm in the body has nothing to fertilise
Thickening cervical mucus, so sperm have a harder time reaching the uterus

You can buy Hana® over the pharmacy counter or online. When purchasing Hana® you will complete a short consultation so a pharmacist can check and see if Hana® is the right choice for you.

How effective is desogestrel?

“Taken at the same time each day, progestogen-only pills like Hana® which contain desogestrel are over 99% effective,” says Deborah Evans, a pharmacist with over 30 years of experience**. “This means that fewer than 1 woman in 100 who uses the progestogen-only pill as contraception will get pregnant in one year.”

If you take progestogen-only pills like Hana® correctly, which is known as ‘perfect use’ and means that you take it at the same time every day without a break between packs and never forget to take it, they are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. With typical use, which accounts for human error such as someone forgetting to take their pill or not taking it consistently at the same time, this effectiveness can go down to around 92% effective. This may be due to forgetting to take your pill or not taking it at the same time every day, vomiting or diarrhoea, or taking certain medicines that may interfere with Hana®’s effectiveness.

If you forget to take your contraceptive pill then there is a chance you could ovulate and become pregnant if you had sex without using a barrier method like a condom. Progestogen-only pills containing desogestrel like Hana® should be taken every day at the same time without a break between packs.

If you realise you’ve forgotten to take your pill and it’s been less than 12 hours since you were meant to take it, then it will still be effective if you take it within that 12 hour window. If it’s been longer than 12 hours, that counts as a missed pill. You should take your contraceptive pill as soon as you remember and take your next pill at the usual time (even if that means taking two pills in one day). You should also use a barrier method (like a condom) for the next 7 days as your contraceptive pill may be temporarily less effective if you’ve missed one or more.

It’s important to consider whether you feel confident that you will remember to take your contraceptive pill reliably, and that you’ll remember to take it if your routine changes ( if you stay at someone else’s house or go on holiday for example). If you’re not sure whether you want to commit to taking your contraceptive every day, consider if a long acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) like the IUD may be more suitable.

How long before desogestrel is effective?

If you start taking desogestrel on the first day of your menstrual cycle, then it will be effective immediately. However, if you start taking it on any other day of your cycle, then you will need to use another method of contraception (such as condoms) for the first 7 days to help prevent unplanned pregnancy.

How do you take Hana®?

Hana® is a progestogen-only pill that has to be taken at the same time every day without a break between packs. You should swallow one tablet whole with water every day and start a new pack as soon as you finish the previous one. You take Hana® every day, 365 days a year, with no break between packs. There are no inactive or placebo pills with Hana®.

To make sure you take Hana® correctly, you should:

Choose a convenient time of day that suits you and stick to it
Use an alarm or reminder app to help you remember your pill
Keep your pill pack somewhere you can easily see it
Check your pill pack regularly and make sure you have enough supply
Read the patient information leaflet carefully and follow the instructions

If you have any questions or concerns about taking Hana®, you can always ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.

Is Hana® suitable for everyone?

Hana® is not suitable for everyone. You should not take Hana® if you:

Are allergic to desogestrel or any of the other ingredients in Hana®
Are pregnant or think you might be pregnant
Have or have had breast cancer
Have or have had a blood clot in your veins or arteries
Have or have had liver disease or liver tumours
Have unexplained vaginal bleeding

You should also tell your pharmacist or doctor if you have any of the following conditions, as they may affect the suitability or safety of Hana® for you:

Diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Heart disease
Stroke
Migraine with aura
Epilepsy
Tuberculosis
Depression
Gallstones
Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

You should also inform your pharmacist or doctor about any other medicines you are taking, as some of them may interact with Hana® and reduce its effectiveness or increase its side effects. These include:

Medicines for epilepsy, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, oxcarbazepine, topiramate or lamotrigine
Medicines for tuberculosis, such as rifampicin or rifabutin
Medicines for HIV, such as ritonavir, nevirapine or efavirenz
Medicines for fungal infections, such as griseofulvin, ketoconazole or itraconazole
Medicines for hepatitis C, such as boceprevir or telaprevir
Medicines for high blood pressure, such as bosentan
Herbal remedies containing St John’s wort

If you are unsure whether Hana® is suitable for you, you should always consult your pharmacist or doctor before taking it.

How can I get Hana®?

Hana® is the best selling contraceptive pill available to buy over the counter from pharmacies in the UK*. You can also order it online for delivery to your door. However you choose to buy Hana®, you will need to answer some questions about your health and medical history to make sure it’s suitable for you.

*Verify: hana.co.uk/verify

**Deborah Evans does not endorse any products or brands.

Hana® 75µg film-coated tablets contains desogestrel and is an oral contraception for women of child bearing age to prevent pregnancy. Always read the instructions on the package leaflet carefully.

References

https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/contraception/progestogen-only-pill-pop-mini-pill
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/desogestrel
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/the-pill-progestogen-only/

How to get Hana at a Pharmacy

How to get Hana® at a pharmacy

Getting Hana® at a pharmacy

The pharmacist consultation

Are pharmacists qualified to distribute the contraceptive pill?

Alternative ways to access the POP

Subscription not prescription

Should I get my contraceptive pill over the counter?

So you’re interested in a progestogen-only contraceptive pill that you can buy over the pharmacy counter? In that case, you’ll need to know how you can access contraceptive pills like Hana®, available from your pharmacist without a prescription.

Getting Hana® at a pharmacy

As you may already know, Hana® is one of the contraceptive pills that can be purchased without a prescription – this means you don’t need a doctor’s appointment to obtain it. We know that it can sometimes be difficult trying to attend appointments if you have a busy schedule, so getting one booked might not be feasible. That’s where Hana® comes in.

Hana® and other progestogen-only pills (also called the POP or mini pill) should be available in all good pharmacies – both independent, local stores and larger chain stores like Boots, Superdrug and Lloyds. If you are unsure whether or not your pharmacy offers contraceptive pills like Hana®, you can always ask the pharmacist. These contraceptive pills are still available to get from your GP on prescription, pharmacies are just another access option for anyone who might need it.

Hana® is a contraceptive pill containing desogestrel, designed to be taken at the same time every day, without breaks. When taken correctly, Hana® is over 99% effective at helping to prevent pregnancy.

The pharmacist consultation

In order to purchase an over the counter contraceptive pill (like Hana®), you will need to have a conversation with the pharmacist to make sure that it is right for you. There is really no difference between this and the conversation you’d have with a GP; the pharmacist will be asking similar questions and discussing contraceptive options with you. There should be no waiting time, either – you can walk straight into a pharmacy near you.

There is no requirement for a blood pressure check when purchasing the progestogen-only pill, and this is true regardless of whether you get it on prescription or not. Blood pressure checks are more closely associated with the combined contraceptive pill.

We get it: if you’ve been seeing a GP to access your contraceptive pill up until now, you’re bound to have questions about this new route of access that we are offering – especially given it differs from what you’re used to.

Are pharmacists qualified to distribute the contraceptive pill?

A lot of the online conversations and debates we have seen around contraceptive pills without prescription focus on concerns about whether or not pharmacists are qualified to distribute said pills.

We want to assure you that pharmacists are highly trained medical professionals, and go through specific training with regard to contraception. To become a pharmacist, there is a four-year degree course followed by a mandatory pre-registration year. Pharmacists study as scientists and clinicians and, because of this, are able to offer specialist advice around medication.

We have previously interviewed Deborah Evans, who told us about the 5 years of training it took for her to qualify as a pharmacist.

Alternative ways to access the POP

Hana® can also be purchased online via Hana® direct! There will also be a pharmacist consultation if you choose to purchase online. You’ll complete a checklist of eight questions, which is then reviewed by one of our registered pharmacists who will check to see whether or not the progestogen-only pill is a good fit for you. If they agree that Hana® is a good option for you, the order will be processed and delivered to your house.

Subscription not prescription

We have recently launched our subscription service on Hanadirect.co.uk. This means that there are two options for purchasing online: as a one-time guest purchase (for a three month supply), or by signing up for our subscription service. Our subscription service is a great way to spread the cost, as you only have to have three months supply in one go. Other benefits are that you’ll get free delivery on all orders, and handy reminder emails when your supply is running low and the next delivery needs triggering. There is no minimum sign up period, so don’t worry about being trapped if things don’t work out with Hana® – you are free to cancel your subscription at any time.

Should I get my contraceptive pill over the counter?

Looking after yourself and your sexual and reproductive health should be empowering, and nothing to be ashamed of. Working out what kind of contraceptive best suits your body and lifestyle is a huge part of looking after your sexual health. As we are all different, our relationships with and reactions to various contraceptive options will be different too.

If you’re considering accessing your contraceptive pill without a prescription, the pharmacist consultation should clear up any concerns you may have, and we recommend purchasing the three month pack to give your body a chance to regulate after any initial side effects (as would be the case if you were prescribed the medication by a GP).

Hana® 75µg film-coated tablets contains desogestrel and is an oral contraception for women of child bearing age to prevent pregnancy. Always read the instructions on the package leaflet carefully.

Ask Hana®

How to get Hana® birth control at a Pharmacy

Getting Hana® at a pharmacy

The pharmacist consultation

Are pharmacists qualified to distribute the contraceptive pill?

Alternative ways to access the POP

Subscription not prescription

Should I get my contraceptive pill over the counter?

So you’re interested in a progestogen-only contraceptive pill that you can buy over the pharmacy counter? In that case, you’ll need to know how you can access contraceptive pills like Hana®, available from your pharmacist without a prescription.

Getting Hana® at a pharmacy

As you may already know, Hana® is one of the contraceptive pills that can be purchased without a prescription – this means you don’t need a doctor’s appointment to obtain it. We know that it can sometimes be difficult trying to attend appointments if you have a busy schedule, so getting one booked might not be feasible. That’s where Hana® comes in.

Hana® and other progestogen-only pills (also called the POP or mini pill) should be available in all good pharmacies – both independent, local stores and larger chain stores like Boots, Superdrug and Lloyds. If you are unsure whether or not your pharmacy offers contraceptive pills like Hana®, you can always ask the pharmacist. These contraceptive pills are still available to get from your GP on prescription, pharmacies are just another access option for anyone who might need it.

Hana® is a contraceptive pill containing desogestrel, designed to be taken at the same time every day, without breaks. When taken correctly, Hana® is over 99% effective at helping to prevent pregnancy.

The pharmacist consultation

In order to purchase an over the counter contraceptive pill (like Hana®), you will need to have a conversation with the pharmacist to make sure that it is right for you. There is really no difference between this and the conversation you’d have with a GP; the pharmacist will be asking similar questions and discussing contraceptive options with you. There should be no waiting time, either – you can walk straight into a pharmacy near you.

There is no requirement for a blood pressure check when purchasing the progestogen-only pill, and this is true regardless of whether you get it on prescription or not. Blood pressure checks are more closely associated with the combined contraceptive pill.

We get it: if you’ve been seeing a GP to access your contraceptive pill up until now, you’re bound to have questions about this new route of access that we are offering – especially given it differs from what you’re used to.

Are pharmacists qualified to distribute the contraceptive pill?

A lot of the online conversations and debates we have seen around contraceptive pills without prescription focus on concerns about whether or not pharmacists are qualified to distribute said pills.

We want to assure you that pharmacists are highly trained medical professionals, and go through specific training with regard to contraception. To become a pharmacist, there is a four-year degree course followed by a mandatory pre-registration year. Pharmacists study as scientists and clinicians and, because of this, are able to offer specialist advice around medication.

We have previously interviewed Deborah Evans*, who told us about the 5 years of training it took for her to qualify as a pharmacist.

*Deborah Evans does not endorse any products or brands.

Alternative ways to access the POP

Hana® can also be purchased online via Hana® direct! There will also be a pharmacist consultation if you choose to purchase online. You’ll complete a checklist of eight questions, which is then reviewed by one of our registered pharmacists who will check to see whether or not the progestogen-only pill is a good fit for you. If they agree that Hana® is a good option for you, the order will be processed and delivered to your house.

Subscription not prescription

We have recently launched our subscription service on HanaDirect.co.uk. This means that there are two options for purchasing online: as a one-time guest purchase (for a three month supply), or by signing up for our subscription service. Our subscription service is a great way to spread the cost, as you only have to have three months supply in one go.

Other benefits are that you’ll get free delivery on all orders, and handy reminder emails when your supply is running low and the next delivery needs triggering. There is no minimum sign up period, so don’t worry about being trapped if things don’t work out with Hana® – you are free to cancel your subscription at any time.

Should I get my contraceptive pill over the counter?

Looking after yourself and your sexual and reproductive health should be empowering, and nothing to be ashamed of. Working out what kind of contraceptive best suits your body and lifestyle is a huge part of looking after your sexual health. As we are all different, our relationships with and reactions to various contraceptive options will be different too.

If you’re considering accessing your contraceptive pill without a prescription, the pharmacist consultation should clear up any concerns you may have, and we recommend purchasing the three month pack to give your body a chance to regulate after any initial side effects (as would be the case if you were prescribed the medication by a GP).

Ask Hana

Should I buy a one month or three month pack of Hana®?

Should I get a one-month or three-month supply of contraceptive pills?

What to look out for when starting a new contraceptive pill like Hana®

A three-month pack of Hana® can give your body time to settle

Take Hana® everyday

Cost-effective

Time effective

Can you get a six-month or twelve-month month supply of Hana®?

We understand that changing or starting a new contraceptive pill can feel like a big decision. Whilst contraceptive pills are the most commonly used type of contraception in the UK, that doesn’t mean that everyone has the same experience with them. We’ve all heard stories about one person who absolutely loves a specific type of contraceptive pill and someone else who didn’t get on with it at all.

It makes sense that when starting a new contraceptive pill, you may want to try it and see how your body feels while using it before deciding to use this type of contraception long term.

Now that some progestogen-only contraceptive pills like Hana® are available to buy over-the-counter with a pharmacy consultation rather than a doctor’s appointment, you may be given the choice between purchasing a one-month or three-month pack. If this happens, you may be wondering about the pros and cons of each option and which would be the best choice for your personal circumstances.

Contraception is all about choice, so we have created this article to help you make up your own mind about which option (if either) you wish to take.

Should I get a one-month or three-month supply of contraceptive pills?

When you have first been prescribed a contraceptive pill, you will usually be given a three-month supply. This is because it can take longer than a month to really know how your body responds to a specific contraceptive pill. It is also important that you take Hana® every day without a break, so having 3 months supply will help make sure you don’t run out

Everyone is different and may experience a contraceptive pill differently. Some may feel no side effects at all, others may feel mild side effects for a few weeks before it settles down, and others may have to wait slightly longer for their body to settle.

Contraceptive pills are usually tolerated well by most women and people with uteruses, but some may experience long or short-term adverse reactions to a specific contraceptive pill, so may wish to switch to another type of contraceptive pill or try another form of contraception.

What to look out for when starting a new contraceptive pill like Hana®

Hana® is a progestogen-only pill, which means it is suitable for people who cannot take or do not want to take oestrogen. For example, it can be suitable for people who are breastfeeding.

When buying Hana®, either online or in a pharmacy, you will complete a checklist which asks you questions about your medical history, other medications you may be taking, whether or not you may be pregnant and other queries that help the pharmacist decide if Hana® is the right choice for you.

Like any medication, some people may experience side effects when taking Hana®. These side effects tend to be mild and can balance out within a few months. Serious side effects are rare, but if you do experience any you should stop taking Hana® and speak to a doctor or other health care professional. Find out more about the potential side effects of Hana®.

It’s really important to listen to your body and talk to a healthcare professional if you want to change your contraception. Your body and needs are unique, so just because your friend, mum or sister absolutely loves a specific pill doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you. One of the great things about the contraceptive pill is that you can stop taking it at any time if you want to.

Remember that contraceptive pills are only effective at preventing pregnancy if you are taking them as instructed, so you will not be protected from pregnancy (and could in fact get pregnant) after you stop taking them.

If you want to get a good idea of how a specific pill interacts with your body, it would be a good idea to choose a three-month supply over a one-month supply as this gives you a better indication of how the pill interacts with your body once it’s had time to settle down. Read on to find out more.

A three-month pack of Hana® can give your body time to settle

It can take a few months for the body to settle into taking the pill. Three months is a good amount of time to see how you feel using Hana®. One month is not really enough time to get a good sense of how Hana® makes you feel.

Take Hana® everyday

It is important that Hana® is taken every day, without a break between packs. Having three months helps ensure you have another pack to start when the last one ends, which may help you avoid missing your pill.

Cost-effective

It is more cost-effective to buy a three-month rather than a one month supply – you would save around 10p a day.

Time effective

Hana® is something you’re likely to take every day for a few months, years or even decades. Many people may find they don’t have the time to go to the pharmacy every month, so it is simply more convenient to have a longer supply.

Can you get a six-month or twelve-month month supply of Hana®?

You can get a twelve-month supply of Hana® from your pharmacy if that feels like a better option for you. The same is now true for contraceptive pills bought over the counter if you are buying a repeat supply. Please note that you can only get up to three months of Hana® if you are under 18.

It’s really important that you feel comfortable with your contraception. Remember that you can always talk to a healthcare professional like a pharmacist about any questions or concerns you may have.

Have you recently started taking Hana®? Why not get in touch on social and let us know about your experience? @hanaPillUK

Ask Hana

Is the Hana contraceptive pill suitable for me?

Could Hana® be Suitable for me?

Who can use Hana®?

Can you smoke on the contraceptive pill?

Who can’t use Hana®?

If you’ve landed here, it’s probably because you’re wondering whether Hana® – a progestogen-only pill available to buy over the counter without prescription – may be suitable for you. As Hana® is a progestogen-only pill and does not contain oestrogen, it is suitable for many people who cannot or may not want to take oestrogen.

Hana® is well tolerated by many women and people with uteruses, but like any medication, it is not suitable for everyone. If you choose to buy Hana®, either over the pharmacy counter or online, you will need to have a consultation with a pharmacist, or complete an online checklist, which will be reviewed by a pharmacist. This will be a questionnaire that includes questions about your medical history and any medication you are taking. This is to help the pharmacist check if Hana® is suitable for you.

Who can use Hana®?

When taken correctly, Hana® is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. As a progestogen-only pill, Hana® is suitable for many women and people with uteruses who want to prevent pregnancy. Hana® may also be suitable for you if you are unable to take contraceptives containing oestrogen, such as the combined pill.

Hana® is suitable for many people, including some who cannot take contraception which contains oestrogen.

✓	If you’re over 35 and you smoke
✓	If you’re breastfeeding
✓	If you are allergic to or don’t want to take oestrogen
✓	If you have a higher BMI
✓	If you have a history of blood clots

Can you smoke on the contraceptive pill?

If you smoke and are over the age of 35, the combined contraceptive pill (which contains progestogen and oestrogen) is not recommended. This is because oestrogen can cause changes in your blood and slightly increase your risk of blood clots, which is also a risk of smoking.

Try to be as honest as possible with your pharmacist or doctor when talking about your contraceptive options, so it’s easier for them to make an informed recommendation that is suitable for you. If you smoke and are over the age of 35, the progestogen-only pill may be suitable for you.

Who can’t use Hana®?

There are some circumstances, such as certain medical conditions or other medications, which may mean Hana® is not suitable for you. If this is the case, your pharmacist will be able to tell you about other methods of contraception and help you make an informed decision. You can find out more on the Hana® package leaflet.

❌	You are allergic to desogestrel or any other ingredients in Hana®
❌	If you have cancer that is affected by sex-steroid hormones, such as certain types of breast cancer, ovarian cancer or endometrial (uterine) cancer
❌	If you have, or have had, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes) or severe liver disorders, and blood tests show your liver has not returned to normal
❌	If you have an active blood clot in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)
❌	You have unexplained bleeding between periods or after sex (you should check this out with a doctor as it can be a symptom of more serious problems)
❌	If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

You should talk to a doctor before taking Hana®, if any of the below apply:

You have a history of cancer that is affected by progestogen hormones, such as certain types of breast cancer, ovarian cancer or endometrial (uterine) cancer
You have had a blood clot in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)
You have liver cancer or other liver disorders.
You have diabetes.
You have epilepsy.
You have tuberculosis.
You have high blood pressure.
You have or have had chloasma (yellowish-brown pigmentation patches on the skin).

Want to find out more about whether Hana® may be suitable for you? Why not complete our online checklist or speak to a pharmacist to find out more.

Ask Hana

Can I take Hana® contraception pill if I’m ill?

Can I take Hana® if I’m ill?

When does being ill impact the pill?

What if I am sick for longer than 24 hours?

What happens if I’ve missed more than one pill?

Will different contraceptive pills make me feel unwell?

Can my medication affect me taking the pill?

Can I take Hana® if I’m ill?

When you’re ill, the last thing you want is to be feeling rubbish and worrying about whether or not your contraceptive pill will remain effective.

It’s a strange time to fall ill at the minute, so it’s important to know what kinds of illness might impact the effectiveness of your pill, so we spoke to Dr Sally Green (MBChB, DRCOG, FPCert)* – a GP who works in a sexual health clinic – about what symptoms to look out for, and what a bout of ill health could mean for your contraception.

When does being ill impact the pill?

“As long as you are not vomiting or have diarrhoea, and you continue to take your progestogen-only pill at the same time every day, the pill should still work,” says Dr Green.

“However, If you do stop taking the pill when feeling unwell, you should restart as soon as you are well again. If you restart taking your contraceptive pill on any day other than the first day of your period, a barrier method of contraception should be used for 7 days” Dr Green adds.

“If you are sick within three to four hours of taking your pill, it won’t have had a chance to be absorbed into your body and you’ll need to take another pill,” says Dr Green. “If you are sick all day, the day should be counted as a ‘missed pill’. Take another pill as soon as you are able to – even if this means taking two pills in one day. The following day, take your next pill at your usual time. If you are any more than 12 hours late in taking your pill, you should use condoms for the following 7 days to ensure you remain protected against pregnancy.”

You might feel lethargic and sleep more when unwell, so make sure you set an alarm to remind you to take your pill if you’re worried you might forget.

What if I am sick for longer than 24 hours?

“If you get really unlucky and are ill for a longer period of time, you will need to keep taking your pills at the same time as usual, but your protection may be compromised,” says Dr Green. “In this case, it’s advised that you also adopt a method of barrier contraception like condoms.”

“If you’ve missed more than one pill, take the last pill you missed and carry on taking your pill as normal from that day. You should use condoms for the next 7 days, to ensure you are as protected as possible” says Dr Green.

What happens if I’ve missed more than one pill?

If you are using a pill which contains desogestrel, like Hana®, you are still protected if you manage to take your pill within 12 hours of when you normally would take it. If this occurs, simply carry on taking the remainder of your pill packet as you normally would.

“If the protection window has passed, it counts as a ‘missed pill’,” says Dr Green. “Take your missed pill as soon as you are able. Again, this may mean you take two pills in one day. Carry on with the rest of the pack of pills as normal, but make sure to use additional protection (like condoms) for 7 days after the missed pill has been consumed. Progestogen-only pills work by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.”

If you have any concerns about not being protected, the best thing you can do to keep your mind at ease is use condoms or an alternative contraceptive barrier method.

Will different contraceptive pills make me feel unwell?

“When you first start taking either the combined or progestogen-only pill, you might feel hormonal or moody,” says Dr Green. “Some common side effects include hormonal skin spots, breast tenderness, decreased libido, altered mood, irregular menstruation, nausea and headaches, but these usually subside within a few months.”

On the whole, there is only cause for worry if you are unwell in a way that might affect whether the pill is absorbed into your system. If you are unwell but experiencing symptoms other than vomiting or diarrhoea, it’s unlikely that this would interfere with the effectiveness of your contraception. However, it is important to consider if any medications that you are taking might interact with your contraception.

Can my medication affect me taking the pill?

“Commonly used antibiotics won’t affect the pill,” says Dr Green. “Even so, if you are being prescribed medicines or discussing potential drugs with a medical professional, you should always inform them that you are on the pill.”

Hana® and other progestogen-only pills should not be taken alongside any of the following medications, as these can alter the efficacy of your pill**

Epilepsy medication (e.g. primidone, phenytoin, barbiturates, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, felbamate, topiramate, phenobarbital)
Tuberculosis medication (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin)
HIV treatments (e.g. efavirenz)
St John’s Wort
Bosentan
Medication used to treat fungal infections (e.g. griseofulvin)

Any questions surrounding whether or not you can take the contraceptive pill alongside your medication are best directed to a medical professional like a pharmacist or your GP.

If you are persistently ill or anything feels abnormal for you, please seek medical attention.

*Dr Sally Green does not endorse any products or brands

** https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.12735.pdf

Hana® film-coated tablets. Oral Contraception. Contains desogestrel. Read label.

Ask Hana

What is the Hana® consultation like?

The HanaDirect checklist

Face-to-face consultation with a pharmacist

How are pharmacists qualified to carry out consultations for the pill?

You can now purchase Hana® without a doctor’s appointment from many pharmacies, or online via HanaDirect. No matter how you buy Hana®, you will need to undergo a consultation with a registered pharmacist first, to see if Hana® is right for you.

We completely understand that you might have a few questions about what actually happens during this consultation and why pharmacists are the right people to carry them out, so hopefully we can answer some of those here.

When you buy through HanaDirect, you will be required to answer a few questions on the checklist. Your answers are then passed on to an accredited pharmacist who is able to authorise or otherwise follow up on your order. Once we have confirmation that everything is looking good, we’ll keep you updated on the processing and dispatch of your order. If you are buying Hana® in a pharmacy, your pharmacist will ask you the same questions to know if Hana® is appropriate for you.

The HanaDirect checklist

If you choose to purchase your contraceptive pills via the internet, HanaDirect could be a great site for you. It should only take a couple of minutes to work your way through and includes the same questions you would expect to be asked face to face. This covers your age, whether you might be pregnant and a couple of questions about your medical history – for example whether you have experienced any health conditions or allergies, or whether you’ve been prescribed a contraceptive containing desogestrel before.

Then you place your order! That’s really all you need to do. Your checklist answers will go to a trained pharmacist who can then flag any potential issues. Otherwise, your order will be on its way shortly and we’ll send you an email to confirm. It will arrive in discreet packaging, and you can choose between next-day and 48-hour postage. Your information is always kept totally confidential.

Face-to-face consultation with a pharmacist

There should never be any major difference between consulting with a pharmacist and discussing the pill with your GP. You’ll be asked the same questions and have the same opportunity to discuss your options if you’ve got any questions of your own. They will want to know a few things about you, such as whether you have any previous or existing health conditions that may cause issues, whether you’re taking any medication and whether you have any allergies.

As with the online consultation, any information you provide to the pharmacist will be kept confidential. There’s no need to worry; pharmacists are trained healthcare professionals who are comfortable discussing sexual health. They are there to support you as you take charge of your contraception by purchasing them from the pharmacy.

Pharmacists are all highly qualified healthcare professionals and it is great news that a daily contraceptive pill can now be purchased from a pharmacy. This is great news for many people who are unable to conveniently access an appointment with their GP or wait for a prescription, but does not mean that you can’t discuss or access contraceptive pills through your GP if that’s preferable. Both HanaDirect and heading to the pharmacy could be great options for you to consider if you are unable to book or attend a doctor’s appointment.

How are pharmacists qualified to carry out consultations for the pill?

A pharmacist’s career begins with a 4-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree covering a wide range of scientific disciplines revolving around chemistry and physiology. It doesn’t end there; they will then undergo a pre-registration year of training which involves a patient-facing work placement. There are many places this placement can be carried out, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and GP surgeries – or anywhere else you might find a registered pharmacist.

The training pharmacists go through includes not only product-specific training, but also continued training and education on reproductive health and safeguarding, which is required to be kept up to date. A pharmacist who completes their training and meets these requirements can safely supply other over the counter medication as well as prescription medication. A pharmacist can also advise customers on which over-the-counter treatments may be best for them, and how best to take their medication.

It’s also important to recognise that there are other members of your pharmacy’s team including pharmacy technicians and assistants who are crucial for the smooth operation of the pharmacy, but do not carry the same qualifications and are unable to conduct these consultations.

Hopefully you now feel a little more confident about all of the different options available to you. Whether you choose to visit HanaDirect, the pharmacy, or your GP, you can access helpful advice regarding contraception from someone who understands your individual needs and circumstances. Both the pharmacy and HanaDirect are additional new points of safe access to the pill which allow you to connect with pharmacists who are qualified to help, and your GP is still a great option should you prefer to speak to them about your requirements.

If you’re interested in learning more about Hana®, why not read some of our other Ask Hana® pieces? You can also hear more about Hana® and why pharmacists are trusted healthcare providers in this interview with pharmacist Deborah Evans*.

Hana® 75μg film-coated tablets contains desogestrel and is an oral contraception for women of child bearing age and people with uteruses to prevent pregnancy. Always read the instructions on the package leaflet carefully.

*Deborah Evans does not endorse any products or brands.

Ask Hana

What is Hana’s subscription service?

What is Hana’s Subscription service?

What is Hana®?

Hana®’s online consultation

What is Hana Direct’s subscription service?

Hana®’s subscription service

Why should I get a 3-month supply of Hana®?

What happens when I order Hana®?

What if I don’t receive my order of Hana®?

In 2021, some progestogen-only pills such as Hana® were licensed to sell over the pharmacy counter with no need for a doctor’s appointment. Pharmacists are trained medical professionals, and they will have a consultation with you to see if Hana® is right for you.

Hana® is also available to purchase online via Hana Direct. If you choose to order online, you will complete an online checklist of eight questions which will help identify any reasons that Hana® might not be the right choice for you. These answers are then reviewed by a registered pharmacist. If they agree that Hana® is right for you, they will process the order which will be delivered to your house.

What is Hana®?

Hana® is a progestogen-only pill containing desogestrel that works primarily by preventing ovulation so there is no egg for any sperm to fertilise. It also helps stop fertilisation by thickening the mucus in your cervix, preventing sperm from getting through. As a progestogen-only pill, Hana® does not contain oestrogen and may be suitable for people who cannot or do not want to take oestrogen.

When used correctly, Hana® is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Hana® is suitable for many women and people with uteruses. Since there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to contraception, before you are able to purchase the pill you must have a consultation with a pharmacist to see if this is the right choice for you.

Hana®’s online consultation

When purchasing online via Hana Direct, you will need to complete an online consultation. This will help the pharmacist check if Hana® is the right option for you, or if there is a reason you may want to choose another method of contraception.

The consultation includes questions about any health conditions you may have, allergies, medication and whether there’s a chance you’re pregnant.

If you decide to order Hana® online, there are a few options to choose from. You can choose a one-off purchase of a 3-month supply of Hana®, or you can sign up for Hana®’s subscription service where you will benefit from free P&P with your regular orders. Find out which option is right for you below.

What is Hana Direct’s subscription service?

You have two options when buying Hana® online, so you can choose whichever option suits your lifestyle and personal needs.

You can order a one-time guest purchase for your 3-month supply.
There is no need to create an account with the one-time guest purchase option, but this does mean you will have to re-enter your details if you want to buy Hana® online again.
With this option, you will not get reminders to renew your purchase, and you will not receive free repeat deliveries.

Hana®’s subscription service

Hana® Direct also offers a subscription service with free delivery which you can sign up for when purchasing your first pack of Hana®.
You can quickly create an account which makes it easy to repeat your order.
When your supply is running low, you will receive a reminder email asking you to repeat your order of Hana® – you will never be sent an order that you did not request.
Before re-ordering Hana®, you will need to verify that nothing has changed in terms of health or medication since your last order.
Hana®’s subscription model offers free delivery, and there is no minimum sign up period – so you can cancel whenever you want.
Both options (subscription or one-time guest purchase) cost just £7.32 per month (or 26p per day) for a 3-month supply.

Why should I get a 3-month supply of Hana®?

All GPs will recommend starting with a 3-month supply of a new contraceptive pill, because it sometimes takes longer than a month for your body to adjust to a new or different contraceptive pill. It’s a good idea to try it for a few months to see whether that particular pill feels like the right fit for you. It is also important that you take one tablet every day without a break between packs, so having the next pack available is a good idea.

As with any medication, some people may experience side effects from Hana®. These side effects are often temporary and subside within a few months. Find out more about possible side effects. If you have any concerns or if you want to switch your contraception, talk it over with a pharmacist or doctor so you can discuss what your options are.

If you have previously ordered Hana® you can order up to a 12-month supply, following pharmacist approval.

What happens when I order Hana®?

When you order Hana® from Hana Direct , you will receive an email acknowledging that your order has been sent to the pharmacist. You will then receive another email to let you know that your order has been accepted. If your order requires further checks, you will be contacted by a pharmacist for a telephone consultation.

Your packs of Hana® will be sent via Royal Mail 48 for standard deliveries and you should receive your order within 4 working days. You can also choose Next Day or Saturday/Sunday delivery, which will be sent out using DPD.

Hana® is delivered in a discreet unbranded package that fits through a standard-sized letterbox. There is no need to sign for your purchase.

What if I don’t receive my order of Hana®?

If your order is late, or if there is an issue with the order, please call the 24-hour helpline on 01284 717692 or email Hana Direct at info@hanadirect.co.uk.

We hope this has answered your questions about Hana®’s subscription service via Hana® Direct. Have another question? See if it’s been answered in our Ask Hana series, and use #AskHana to get in touch.

Hana® 75 microgram film coated tablets contains desogestrel and is indicated for oral contraception by women of child bearing age to prevent pregnancy. Always read the instructions on the package leaflet carefully.

Ask Hana

What happens when you stop taking the Hana contraceptive pill?

What Is Hana®?

What happens if I stop taking Hana?

What do I do if I want to change my contraceptive pill?

What do you do if you want to switch from one progestogen-only pill to another?

What to do if you want to switch from the progestogen-only pill to the combined pill?

Want to take a break from Hana® – or break up altogether? Don’t worry, we won’t be offended. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to contraception and sometimes people just don’t get on with certain pills.

Maybe you want to have a baby, or switch to another form of contraception? Whether you want a short or longer term relationship with Hana®, read on to find out what happens if you stop taking the progestogen-only pill.

What Is Hana®?

Hana® is a progestogen-only pill for women and people with uteruses who want to prevent pregnancy. Hana® contains the active ingredient desogestrel and it works by inhibiting ovulation, so no egg is released. It also works by thickening the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to enter the womb. Hana® contains only one hormone, so it’s known as a progestogen-only pill (POP) or mini pill.

Hana® is one pill taken every day at the same time with no break in between packs. Be aware that hormonal contraception does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Only condoms can do that, so remember to use condoms with any new partner(s).

What happens if I stop taking Hana?

We know there are many reasons someone may want to stop taking their contraceptive pill. Our recent survey of 984 people found that 10% stopped taking the pill because they wanted to have a baby, whilst 13% kept forgetting to take their pill and so chose to stop using it.

Some people do also experience side effects, and whilst these generally subside after a few months, some people find that a progestogen-only pill just isn’t right for them. There is no one size fits all when it comes to contraception, and there are a lot of other options out there if your current method isn’t working out. Find out more about side effects here.

If you want to stop taking Hana®, just stop taking it. From the day you stop, you are no longer protected against pregnancy, so if you still don’t want to get pregnant you should consider an alternative method, such as condoms or another contraceptive pill. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about your contraceptive options.

*Deborah Evans, a pharmacist with over 35 years of experience, says: “When you stop taking the pill, your hormone levels will return to normal and you will start ovulating again. There will also be changes to your cervical mucus, meaning it will be easier for sperm to reach the egg if you have unprotected sex.”

“Some people find their periods take a few cycles to return to ‘normal’, which is usually nothing to be concerned about. If your periods haven’t returned – or if they are longer, shorter or more irregular than they were before you went on the pill – you should speak to your pharmacist or doctor for advice.”

If you do want to get pregnant, your fertility should return quickly. Please contact your doctor if you have any concerns about fertility or pregnancy.

What do I do if I want to change my contraceptive pill?

Everyone is different and there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the pill. If you want to change your pill for whatever reason, here is what you need to know.

What do you do if you want to switch from one progestogen-only pill to another?

Speak to your doctor if you want advice about switching contraceptive pills. You should not take a break in between progestogen-only pills, so you will usually be advised to start your new pill straight away or start taking it the day after you finish the last pack of your old pill.

Your new pill could take a short time to be effective, so you may be advised to use a barrier method of contraception (like condoms) for up to 7 days.

You can purchase some progestogen-only pills in a pharmacy or online, following a consultation with a pharmacist or by completing an online checklist that will be reviewed by a pharmacist.

What to do if you want to switch from the progestogen-only pill to the combined pill?

The combined pill is not currently available without prescription over the pharmacy counter, so book an appointment with your doctor or local sexual health clinic if you are interested in switching to the combined pill. Let them know about your contraceptive history and any concerns you might have so they can help make the right choice for you.

If you are interested in a long-acting reversible contraceptive method (LARCS) like the Intrauterine device (aka the IUD or the coil), please speak to your doctor or sexual health clinic where you will be able to ask questions and schedule an appointment to get it fitted. You can also discuss other options like the patch or injection with a doctor or at a sexual health clinic.

Making sure you’re using the right contraceptive method for you is really important, so don’t be afraid to ask questions, evaluate how you feel regularly and change your contraception if it’s not working out. Whatever you ultimately decide is best for you, Hana® is here to help you make the right choice when it comes to your contraception.

*Deborah Evans does not endorse any products or brands.