Feanolla

Feanolla

Feanolla is a form of oral hormonal contraceptive pill colloquially known as the mini pill or abbreviated as POP (progestogen only pill).

Unlike combined oral contraceptive pills, which contain two pills, Feanolla contains only one synthetic hormone – a progestogen called desogestrel. This hormone mimics the female sex hormone progesterone.

How does Feanolla work?

Feanolla contains a progestogen called desogestrel, which mimics the natural female sex hormone pregesterone.

Feanolla works by thickening the mucus which lines the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to traverse. Unlike other mini pills, Feanolla can also prevent ovulation (the ripening and release of an egg from the ovaries).

When taken correctly, the Feanolla mini pill is 99% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies, though typical use has shown the pill to be 92% effective.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not take Feanolla during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you might be pregnant while using Feanolla, speak to your doctor immediately.

Feanolla is safe to take while breastfeeding and does not affect the production of breast milk.

Although small amounts of desogestrel are passed on from mother to baby through breastfeeding, studies found no effect on the development or growth of children who were breastfed by mothers taking desogestrel.

Staying safe while taking Feanolla

Always take Feanolla as prescribed.

While Feanolla protects against unwanted pregnancy, it does not protect against STIs such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea or HIV. You should use barrier contraceptives (such as condoms) to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Never take medicine past the expiry date marked on the packaging.

Do not throw away medicine via household water waste. You should take any unwanted or expired medicine you no longer need to your local pharmacy, who will be able to safely dispose of it on your behalf.

Never share your medicine with other people, even if they are experiencing the same symptoms as you.

Always store medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

How do I take Feanolla?

Feanolla is taken once daily. Swallow one tablet whole with a glass of water. The tablet should be taken at the same each day.

It’s important to follow the arrows on the blister pack.

When should I start taking Feanolla?

While you can start taking Feanolla at any point during your menstrual cycle, you should take the first tablet on the first day of your menstrual cycle to be protected right away.

If you start taking Feanolla beyond the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle, you should use additional forms of contraception (such as condoms) for 2 days to stay protected.