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Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg

Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg

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  • ✔️ Over 99% effective when taken correctly every day
  • ✔️ Suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen-based pills
  • ✔️ Wider 12-hour missed-pill window than older mini-pills
  • ✔️ Suppresses ovulation in most cycles for reliable protection
  • ✔️ Available without a prescription for eligible women aged 18+

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What Is the Hana Pill and How Does It Prevent Pregnancy?

 

The hana pill is a progestogen-only contraceptive tablet containing desogestrel 75 micrograms. Unlike the combined pill, it contains no oestrogen — which makes it a genuinely useful option for women who cannot tolerate or are advised against oestrogen-based contraception. It is one of the few contraceptive pills available to buy from a pharmacy in the UK without a prescription, for women aged 18 and over who meet the suitability criteria. If you are exploring your contraceptive options, you may also find it helpful to browse our women's health range for related products and information.

Hana is taken every day without a break, meaning there are no pill-free intervals. Each pack contains 28 tablets, and you simply move straight on to the next pack when one finishes. Taken correctly, it is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, according to NHS guidance.

 

How Does the Hana Desogestrel Tablet Work?

 

Desogestrel works through several complementary mechanisms to prevent pregnancy. Here is how it acts in the body:

  • Thickens cervical mucus — makes it significantly harder for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach an egg.
  • Suppresses ovulation — in most women, desogestrel inhibits the release of an egg from the ovary, which is a key difference from older progestogen-only pills that relied mainly on the mucus effect.
  • Thins the womb lining — alters the endometrium so that implantation is less likely, providing an additional layer of protection.

Because desogestrel suppresses ovulation more consistently than older progestogen-only pills, it offers a wider 12-hour window for taking your tablet — compared to the 3-hour window associated with older formulations like norethisterone-based pills.

 

Who Is the Hana Mini-Pill Suitable For?

 

Hana is designed for women who want a reliable, hormone-based contraceptive but either cannot or prefer not to use oestrogen. It is particularly well-suited to:

  • Women who are breastfeeding (progestogen-only pills are generally considered safe during breastfeeding, according to NHS guidance)
  • Women who experience migraines with aura, for whom oestrogen-containing pills are not recommended
  • Women over 35 who smoke, as the combined pill carries additional cardiovascular risks in this group
  • Women with certain cardiovascular risk factors where oestrogen is contraindicated

It is not suitable for everyone. Women with a current or past history of breast cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or severe liver disease should not use Hana. Always complete the pharmacy consultation questions honestly before purchasing.

 

How Does Hana Compare to Other Progestogen-Only Pills?

 

Feature Hana (Desogestrel 75mcg) Noriday (Norethisterone 350mcg)
Active ingredient Desogestrel Norethisterone
Ovulation suppression Yes, in most cycles Inconsistent
Missed pill window 12 hours 3 hours
Available without prescription Yes (pharmacy) No (prescription only)

 

How Should You Store Hana and Is It Suitable Long-Term?

 

Store Hana below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack. If you are unsure whether Hana remains the right choice for you after several months of use — particularly if your health circumstances have changed — it is worth speaking to your GP or pharmacist for a review. You can also explore our condoms and sexual health collection for additional contraceptive support products.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg specifications
Treatment category Contraception
Mechanism of action Suppresses ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, thins endometrium
Effective Over 99% when taken correctly
Suitable for Women aged 18 and over
Active ingredient Desogestrel 75 micrograms
Pack sizes 28 tablets
Strengths 75 micrograms
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Progestogen
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg

 

What Is Hana and What Is It Used For?

 

Hana is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (sometimes called the mini-pill) containing desogestrel 75 micrograms. It is used to prevent pregnancy in women of reproductive age. Unlike the combined pill, it does not contain oestrogen, which means it is an option for women who cannot use oestrogen-based contraception for medical reasons. The hana pill is taken every day without a break, and when used correctly it is more than 99% effective, according to NHS guidance on contraception.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Hana?

 

Before starting Hana, it is important to be aware of the following contraindications and warnings:

  • Do not use Hana if you have or have ever had breast cancer
  • Do not use if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding that has not been investigated by a doctor
  • Do not use if you have severe liver disease or a liver tumour
  • Do not use if you are allergic to desogestrel or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • Tell your pharmacist if you have a history of blood clots, as your suitability will need to be assessed
  • Inform your pharmacist if you have diabetes, as progestogens can occasionally affect blood glucose levels
  • Hana does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — use condoms for STI protection

The following medicines may interact with Hana and reduce its contraceptive effectiveness:

  • Enzyme-inducing medicines such as rifampicin, rifabutin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and primidone
  • St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) — a herbal remedy available over the counter
  • Some HIV medicines, including ritonavir and nelfinavir
  • Griseofulvin (an antifungal medicine)

If you are taking any of these medicines, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Hana. Additional contraception may be needed.

 

How Should You Use Hana Correctly?

 

Follow these steps to use Hana correctly and maintain contraceptive protection:

  1. Take one tablet every day at the same time, ideally within a 12-hour window of your chosen time.
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water — do not crush or chew it.
  3. Start your first pack on the first day of your period for immediate protection, or on any day if you are switching from another hormonal contraceptive (follow the specific switching guidance in the PIL).
  4. When you finish one pack, start the next pack immediately the following day — there is no pill-free break.
  5. If you vomit within 3–4 hours of taking a tablet, treat it as a missed pill and take another as soon as possible.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Contraception Women aged 18 and over One 75mcg tablet Once daily, every day

Hana is not indicated for use in women under 18 years of age. If you are unsure about starting or switching contraception, our women's health section has further resources to help you make an informed choice.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Hana?

 

Like all medicines, Hana can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Changes to your menstrual bleeding pattern are the most frequently reported effect — some women find their periods become lighter or stop altogether, while others experience irregular spotting. This is not harmful but can be unexpected.

Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 users):

  • Irregular or unpredictable vaginal bleeding
  • Acne
  • Mood changes, including low mood
  • Decreased libido
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight increase

Less common side effects (may affect fewer users):

  • Vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Painful periods (when they do occur)
  • Ovarian cysts (usually resolve without treatment)
  • Contact lens intolerance
  • Vaginal infection

If you experience any signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing — stop taking Hana and seek emergency medical attention immediately. For general pain or discomfort associated with side effects, you may find our pain relief range helpful, though always check compatibility with your pharmacist first.

 

How Should You Store Hana Safely?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack or blister strip
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy for safe disposal

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy the Hana pill online in the UK?

You can buy the Hana pill from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available as a pharmacy (P) medicine for women aged 18 and over who complete a short suitability consultation. You do not need a prescription, but you will need to answer a few health questions to confirm it is safe for you to use.

How does the Hana pill work in the body?

Hana contains desogestrel, a synthetic progestogen that works in three ways: it suppresses ovulation in most cycles, thickens the cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the womb lining to make implantation less likely. Because it suppresses ovulation more reliably than older progestogen-only pills, it offers a 12-hour window for taking your daily tablet rather than the 3-hour window of older formulations. This makes it a more forgiving option for women with variable daily routines.

How do I take the Hana pill step by step?

Take one Hana tablet every day at the same time, swallowing it whole with water. There is no break between packs — when you finish one strip of 28 tablets, start the next pack the very next day. If you start on the first day of your period, you are protected immediately; if you start on any other day, use additional contraception such as condoms for the first two days.

What is the best time of day to take the Hana pill?

There is no single "best" time — what matters most is consistency. Choose a time that fits naturally into your daily routine, such as when you wake up, with a meal, or at bedtime, and take it at that same time every day. Setting a daily phone reminder can help you stay on track, especially in the early weeks of starting Hana.

What happens if I miss a dose of the Hana pill?

If you are fewer than 12 hours late taking your tablet, take it as soon as you remember and continue as normal — your contraceptive protection is maintained. If you are more than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet immediately, continue with the rest of the pack as usual, and use additional contraception such as condoms for the next two days. If you had unprotected sex during this time, consider emergency contraception and speak to a pharmacist or GP.

Who is eligible to use the Hana pill?

Hana is suitable for women aged 18 and over who want a progestogen-only contraceptive and have no contraindications. It is particularly useful for women who cannot take oestrogen — for example, those who are breastfeeding, have migraines with aura, are over 35 and smoke, or have certain cardiovascular risk factors. Women with a history of breast cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or severe liver disease should not use Hana.

What are the most common side effects of the Hana pill?

The most commonly reported side effects include changes to your menstrual bleeding pattern (such as irregular spotting or periods stopping altogether), acne, headaches, mood changes, nausea, and breast tenderness. These effects are generally mild and often improve after the first few months of use. If side effects are persistent or troubling, speak to your GP or pharmacist about whether Hana remains the right choice for you.

Will the Hana pill affect my periods?

Yes, changes to your bleeding pattern are very common with Hana. Some women experience lighter, less frequent periods, while others find their periods stop altogether — this is not harmful and is a recognised effect of desogestrel. A smaller number of women experience irregular spotting between periods, particularly in the first few months. If you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding, speak to your GP to rule out other causes.

Does the Hana pill protect against sexually transmitted infections?

No — like all hormonal contraceptives, Hana only prevents pregnancy and offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are at risk of STIs, you should use condoms alongside Hana. You can find condoms and related products in our condoms and sexual health collection.

Can I take the Hana pill while breastfeeding?

Yes, Hana is generally considered suitable for use during breastfeeding, according to NHS guidance on progestogen-only contraception. Desogestrel does pass into breast milk in small amounts, but current evidence does not suggest this is harmful to a breastfed infant. It is still advisable to discuss this with your midwife, health visitor, or GP before starting Hana while breastfeeding.

What medicines interact with the Hana pill?

Several medicines can reduce the effectiveness of Hana, including enzyme-inducing drugs such as rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and some HIV antiretrovirals. St John's Wort, a herbal remedy available over the counter, can also interfere with how desogestrel works in the body. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about all medicines and supplements you are taking before starting Hana.

What are the alternatives to the Hana pill?

Alternatives to Hana include other progestogen-only pills such as Cerelle (also containing desogestrel) or Noriday (norethisterone), the combined oral contraceptive pill (if oestrogen is suitable for you), the contraceptive implant, the hormonal intrauterine system (IUS), or the copper coil. For non-hormonal options, condoms remain a widely used choice. Speak to your GP or pharmacist to find the method that best suits your health and lifestyle.

How long can you stay on the Hana pill?

You can continue taking Hana for as long as you need contraception, provided you remain suitable for it and have no new contraindications. It is good practice to have a review with your GP or pharmacist at least once a year to check that Hana is still the right option for you. Fertility typically returns quickly after stopping the pill, often within the first menstrual cycle.

How quickly does the Hana pill start working?

If you start Hana on the first day of your period, it is effective immediately. If you start on any other day of your cycle, you will need to use additional contraception — such as condoms — for the first two days. If you are switching from another hormonal contraceptive, follow the specific switching instructions in the patient information leaflet or ask your pharmacist for guidance.

What does the latest research say about desogestrel mini-pills like Hana?

Desogestrel-containing progestogen-only pills have been extensively studied and are well-established in clinical practice. Research consistently shows that desogestrel suppresses ovulation more reliably than older progestogen-only pills, contributing to its high efficacy rate of over 99% with perfect use. Ongoing research continues to evaluate long-term effects on bone density and mood, and current evidence supports their safety for most women when used as directed. You can also explore our vitamins and supplements range if you are looking to support your general health alongside contraceptive use.

How Should You Use Hana?

Using Hana correctly is straightforward, but consistency is everything. The pill only works as intended when you take it every day without missing doses. Follow these steps each time:

If you are switching from another contraceptive method, follow the switching guidance in the patient information leaflet carefully, or ask your pharmacist for advice specific to your situation.

What Is the Correct Dose of Hana?

The dose of Hana is fixed — there is no variation based on weight, age (within the eligible range), or cycle stage. One tablet per day is the only recommended dose for all eligible users.

Hana is not licensed for use in women under 18 years of age. Do not take more than one tablet per day — taking extra tablets will not increase contraceptive protection and may increase the risk of side effects.

When Is the Best Time to Use Hana?

The most important rule is to take Hana at the same time every day — the specific hour matters less than the consistency. Many women find it easiest to link tablet-taking to an existing daily habit, such as brushing their teeth in the morning or taking it with an evening meal. Setting a recurring alarm on your phone is a simple and effective way to avoid forgetting.

You have a 12-hour window either side of your chosen time before contraceptive protection is considered reduced. This is more flexible than older progestogen-only pills, which had only a 3-hour window — but it is still important not to rely on this window as a routine habit.

How Long Can You Use Hana For?

Hana can be used for as long as you require contraception, provided you remain medically suitable. There is no fixed maximum duration of use, but it is recommended that you have a review with your GP or pharmacist at least once a year. This gives you the opportunity to discuss any changes in your health, review your contraceptive needs, and confirm that Hana remains the right choice for you.

When you decide to stop taking Hana, your fertility should return relatively quickly — often within the first menstrual cycle after stopping. If you have not had a period within a few weeks of stopping and think you may be pregnant, take a pregnancy test and speak to your GP.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Hana?

Changes to your menstrual bleeding pattern are the most frequently reported effect of Hana. Some women find their periods become lighter, less frequent, or stop altogether — this is a recognised effect of desogestrel and is not harmful, though it can be unexpected. Other common side effects include acne, headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes (including low mood), and a decrease in sex drive.

  • Irregular or unpredictable vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Absence of periods (amenorrhoea)
  • Acne
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness or pain
  • Mood changes, including depressed mood
  • Decreased libido
  • Weight increase

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Hana?

Less common side effects are experienced by a smaller proportion of users but are still worth being aware of. Ovarian cysts can occasionally develop — these are usually benign and resolve on their own without treatment, but persistent pelvic pain should always be assessed by a doctor.

  • Vomiting
  • Hair loss or thinning
  • Painful periods (when they do occur)
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Contact lens intolerance
  • Vaginal infection or discharge
  • Fatigue

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Hana?

Serious side effects are rare but require prompt medical attention. If you experience any of the following, stop taking Hana and seek urgent medical help. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash. Although the risk of blood clots with progestogen-only pills is considered lower than with combined pills, you should seek immediate medical attention if you notice sudden severe chest pain, breathlessness, or swelling and pain in one leg.

There is also a small increased risk of breast cancer associated with hormonal contraceptive use. Regularly check your breasts for any unusual changes and report them to your GP promptly.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

Many side effects — particularly changes to bleeding patterns and mild nausea — improve after the first two to three months of use as your body adjusts to the hormone. If side effects are persistent, severe, or affecting your quality of life, do not simply stop taking Hana without speaking to a healthcare professional first, as this will remove your contraceptive protection. Your GP or pharmacist can help you decide whether to continue, adjust your approach, or switch to a different contraceptive method.

You can report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Hana Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Certain medicines can reduce the effectiveness of Hana by speeding up how quickly desogestrel is broken down in the body. These include enzyme-inducing drugs such as rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and some antiretroviral medicines used to treat HIV. St John's Wort — a herbal supplement available without a prescription — can also interact with Hana and reduce its contraceptive effect. Always inform your pharmacist or GP of all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking before starting Hana.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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