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.
