Going on the pill
Have you thought about going on the contraceptive pill?
We know that choosing a contraceptive option is a big decision, and with so many options to choose from, it’s important to know what works best for you.
We should start off by reminding you that we are all different (that’s what makes us so brilliant), our bodies are unique and so therefore some of us will have different reactions to different medications.
The contraceptive pill is a brilliant option for many people looking for a contraceptive that can easily fit into their daily routine. Some people keep their contraceptive pill in their makeup or handbag, in their bathroom cabinet or on their bedside table; wherever it is most accessible – providing the area doesn’t reach above 30degrees and the medication is used within 3 months of opening. If you’re taking the progestogen-only pill, it’s super important to take the pill at the same time every single day.
Why the contraceptive pill?
It’s a good idea to do some research before you decide to start the contraceptive pill, to find out which pill it is that you’re best suited to. Of course, a great thing about the contraceptive pill is that you’re not actually tied into taking it, unlike many other forms of contraception such as the IUD, implant or injection. You can simply stop taking the contraceptive pill at any time (although we recommend using a barrier method of contraception such as condoms if you’re coming off the pill and do not want to get pregnant).
How to get the pill
Some progestogen-only pills (also called the PoP or mini pill) like Hana® are available over the pharmacy counter, or to purchase online. This means there is no need for a prescription or a GP appointment – instead, you will have a consultation with a pharmacist or complete a pharmacist-reviewed online checklist to find out if this method of contraception is right for you.
If you want to get your contraceptive pill on prescription, you can still do that. Hana® is just another option to widen access for those who might want to take it. Find out more about Hana® here.
If you prefer to get your pill prescription-free, then contraceptive pills like Hana® might be a great option for you. We are lucky to have a brilliant healthcare system in the UK, but not everyone has the time to make and attend appointments. Hana® can be purchased in your local pharmacy, but you can also buy it online. Some people have asked whether or not accessing the contraceptive pill this way is ‘safe’ as there is no GP involved, but when you buy Hana® a pharmacist will still review your suitability to ensure that Hana® will be right for you. It seems to be a lesser-known fact, but all pharmacists are actually fully qualified medical professionals who have a minimum of four years training on medicines like the contraceptive pill.
How much is Hana®?
From as little as 26p per day, Hana® can be purchased as a 3-month supply. Hana® can also be bought in a one-month pack from your pharmacy, which is ideal if, for example, you’re away from home and forget your pack.
Ordering via Hanadirect.co.uk is hassle-free and convenient, and we have the checklist readily available, in case you need to re-read or double check anything. Once this is completed, it is reviewed by a pharmacist who will make sure Hana® is the right choice for you. Standard delivery is £3.95, or free with the Hana Direct Subscription Service.
Hana®’s subscription service
We know that one of the main benefits of choosing the pill as your contraception of choice is how easy it is to slip into your day-to-day life without causing too much disruption. Our subscription service makes it that bit easier. With this service, we’ll send you regular reminders when you’re due to order your next pack. There is no cost associated with signing up for a subscription, you just need to create an account. As mentioned, you get free repeat deliveries and there is no minimum sign up period so you can skip or cancel at any time.
How to take Hana®
As mentioned, for maximum effectiveness (over 99% when taken correctly) in helping to prevent pregnancy, Hana® should be taken at the same time every single day, without a break between packs. There are a few medications that can affect how Hana® works. Any medication should be discussed with the pharmacist during your consultation, but we’re including a list of medications that impact Hana’s effectiveness, just in case:
- Epilepsy medication (e.g. primidone, phenytoin, barbiturates, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, felbamate, topiramate, phenobarbital)
- Tuberculosis medication (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin)
- HIV treatments (e.g. ritonavir, efavirenz)
- St John’s Wort
- Bosentan
- Hepatitis C medication (e.g. boceprevir, telaprevir)
- High blood pressure treatments (e.g. diltiazem)
- Medication used to treat bacterial infections (e.g. clarithromycin)
- Medication used to treat fungal infections (e.g. griseofulvin)
If you have any concerns or questions, it is advised that you speak to a medical professional, like a pharmacist or GP.
If you’re thinking about starting Hana®, we’d love to hear from you! We are contactable via any of our social channels and happy to answer any questions we can, although we cannot offer individual medical advice. Similarly, please get in touch to share your experiences with Hana®.
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.
*Data taken from Hana®’s ‘The Pill 101’ survey, taken by over 1,000 women, non-binary people and trans men.
