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Can you take the pill and HRT together?
Whether you can take the pill and HRT together depends on which pill you’re using for birth control. You can usually take the mini pill, including desogestrel, alongside hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The combined pill shouldn’t be taken with systemic HRT – for example, an HRT patch, skin gel, or tablet.
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The combined pill shouldn’t be taken alongside systemic HRT. If you’re under 50 and the combined pill suits you, it can help with some perimenopause symptoms as well as preventing pregnancy. If you’re thinking about switching to HRT, your GP or prescriber can help you plan the change so there’s no gap in contraception.
Can you take desogestrel and HRT?
Yes, you can usually take desogestrel, a type of progestogen-only pill or mini pill, for contraception alongside HRT. If you have a womb and use systemic oestrogen, you’ll usually need a progestogen to protect the womb lining. The usual contraceptive dose of desogestrel shouldn’t be relied on to do that on its own. Your prescriber can check whether your HRT already includes the protection you need.
See the British Menopause Society guidance on womb-lining protection.
Do you still need contraception on HRT?
HRT doesn’t prevent pregnancy. If you could still get pregnant, you’ll need contraception while you’re taking it. If you’re weighing up options such as condoms or the hormonal coil, see our guide to choosing contraception during the menopause transition.
This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
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