Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Lovima (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg

Lovima (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Progestogen-only pill — suitable where oestrogen is contraindicated
  • ✔️ Over 99% effective with correct daily use
  • ✔️ 12-hour missed pill window for greater flexibility
  • ✔️ Safe for use while breastfeeding from 6 weeks postpartum
  • ✔️ Continuous daily dosing — no pill-free break required

Price Checker

Regular price £22.99
Sale price £22.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is the Desogestrel Mini Pill Lovima 75mcg?

 

Lovima is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill — more commonly known as the mini pill — containing desogestrel mini pill at a dose of 75 micrograms per tablet. It is one of the few contraceptive pills available in the UK without a prescription, classified as a pharmacy (P) medicine. That means you can order it conveniently and discreetly online, provided you complete a short health assessment first. If you are exploring your contraceptive options, you can browse our full range of women's health products at Cured Pharmacy.

Lovima is manufactured by Laboratorios León Farma and is licensed in the UK by HRA Pharma. It contains 28 tablets per pack, taken continuously with no pill-free break. This makes it straightforward to use — no counting days off, no hormone-free intervals to track.

 

How Does Lovima Work to Prevent Pregnancy?

 

Desogestrel works through several complementary mechanisms to reliably prevent pregnancy. Unlike older progestogen-only pills, desogestrel consistently inhibits ovulation in the majority of cycles — which is its primary mode of action.

  • Inhibits ovulation by suppressing the LH surge needed to release an egg
  • Thickens cervical mucus, creating a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • Thins the endometrium (womb lining), making implantation less likely
  • When taken correctly, Lovima is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy

Because it does not contain oestrogen, it avoids many of the cardiovascular risks associated with combined oral contraceptives. This is particularly relevant for women who are breastfeeding, smokers over 35, or those with certain medical conditions where oestrogen is contraindicated.

 

Who Is Lovima Suitable For?

 

Lovima is suitable for a wide range of women seeking reliable, hormone-based contraception. It is especially useful for those who cannot or prefer not to take oestrogen-containing pills. That said, it is not right for everyone — a health questionnaire is required before purchase to confirm suitability.

  • Women who are breastfeeding (safe to use from 6 weeks postpartum)
  • Women over 35 who smoke, where combined pills carry higher risk
  • Women with a history of migraines with aura
  • Women with controlled hypertension or certain cardiovascular risk factors
  • Women who experience oestrogen-related side effects on combined pills

It is not suitable for women with a current or past history of breast cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, severe liver disease, or known hypersensitivity to desogestrel or any excipient in the tablet.

 

How Does Lovima Compare to Other Mini Pills?

 

Feature Lovima (Desogestrel 75mcg) Older Progestogen-Only Pills (e.g. Norethisterone)
Primary mechanism Inhibits ovulation + thickens mucus Mainly thickens cervical mucus
Missed pill window 12 hours 3 hours
Oestrogen-free Yes Yes
Available OTC in UK Yes No (prescription only)

 

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

 

Store Lovima below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack. Each blister strip is clearly labelled with days of the week to help you track your daily dose.

Lovima can be used as a long-term contraceptive method. Fertility typically returns quickly after stopping — often within the first cycle. If you are also managing other aspects of your reproductive health, our condoms and sexual health range offers complementary products for additional protection against sexually transmitted infections.

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.

Lovima (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg specifications
Treatment category Contraception
Mechanism of action Inhibits ovulation; thickens cervical mucus; thins endometrium
Effective Over 99% with perfect use
Suitable for Women of childbearing age seeking oestrogen-free contraception
Active ingredient Desogestrel 75 micrograms
Pack sizes 28 tablets
Strengths 75mcg
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Progestogen-only contraceptive
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Lovima (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg

 

What Is Lovima and What Is It Used For?

 

Lovima contains desogestrel 75 micrograms and belongs to a group of medicines called progestogen-only contraceptives. It is used to prevent pregnancy in women of childbearing age. Unlike combined oral contraceptives, it contains no oestrogen, which makes it a suitable option for women who cannot tolerate or are advised against oestrogen-containing medicines. It is taken every day without a break, including during your period.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lovima?

 

Do not take Lovima if any of the following apply to you:

  • You have or have had breast cancer
  • You have unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • You have severe liver disease or a liver tumour
  • You are allergic to desogestrel or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You have a rare hereditary condition called porphyria

Tell your doctor or pharmacist before taking Lovima if you have ever had:

  • Breast cancer (even if in remission)
  • A blood clot (venous thromboembolism)
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Liver problems
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Depression or mood disorders

Drug interactions: Some medicines can reduce the effectiveness of Lovima. These include:

  • Enzyme-inducing medicines: rifampicin, rifabutin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, topiramate, oxcarbazepine, felbamate
  • HIV medicines: ritonavir, nelfinavir
  • Herbal remedies: St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
  • Some antifungals and antibiotics — speak to your pharmacist for specific advice

If you are taking any of these medicines, additional contraception (such as condoms) may be needed. Always inform your prescriber or pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking.

 

How Should You Use Lovima?

 

Always take Lovima exactly as directed. Read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before you start. If you are unsure about anything, ask your pharmacist.

  1. Take one tablet every day at the same time each day
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush or chew
  3. Start the next pack immediately after finishing the previous one — no break
  4. If you are starting for the first time, begin on day 1 of your period for immediate protection
  5. If you start on days 2–5, use additional contraception (e.g. condoms) for the first 2 days
  6. If switching from a combined pill, start Lovima the day after your last active tablet
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Contraception Women of childbearing age 75mcg (1 tablet) Once daily, continuously
Contraception (postpartum) Breastfeeding women (from 6 weeks) 75mcg (1 tablet) Once daily, continuously

If you vomit within 3–4 hours of taking a tablet, or have severe diarrhoea, the tablet may not have been fully absorbed. Treat this as a missed pill and follow the missed dose guidance in the leaflet. You can find additional support and related products in our sickness and nausea range if vomiting is a concern.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lovima?

 

Like all medicines, Lovima can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many side effects settle within the first 2–3 months as your body adjusts.

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

  • Irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting
  • Absent periods (amenorrhoea)
  • Acne
  • Mood changes, including low mood or depression
  • Decreased libido
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness or pain
  • Weight gain

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 users):

  • Vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Vaginal infection
  • Ovarian cysts (usually resolve without treatment)
  • Contact lens intolerance
  • Fatigue

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a blood clot — such as sudden severe chest pain, breathlessness, or swelling and pain in one leg. Although the risk with progestogen-only pills is lower than with combined pills, it is important to be aware. If you experience persistent low mood, speak to your GP — our vitamins and supplements range includes products that may support general wellbeing alongside your contraceptive.

 

How Should You Store Lovima?

 

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

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 Lovima desogestrel mini pill online in the UK?

You can buy Lovima 75mcg online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available as a pharmacy (P) medicine, meaning no GP prescription is needed, but you will need to complete a short health questionnaire to confirm it is suitable for you. Once approved, it is dispatched discreetly to your door.

How does the desogestrel mini pill work in the body?

Desogestrel works primarily by suppressing ovulation — preventing the release of an egg — in most cycles. It also thickens the cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching any egg that is released, and thins the womb lining. This triple action makes it one of the more reliable progestogen-only options available.

How do I take Lovima step by step?

Taking Lovima correctly is straightforward. Follow these steps:

  1. Take one tablet every day at the same time
  2. Swallow whole with water — do not crush
  3. Start the next pack immediately after finishing the current one
  4. If starting on day 1 of your period, you are protected straight away

If you start on any other day, use additional contraception for the first 2 days.

What is the best time of day to take Lovima?

There is no single "best" time — what matters most is consistency. Choose a time that fits easily into your daily routine, such as with breakfast or before bed, and stick to it every day. Taking it at the same time each day ensures you stay within the 12-hour missed pill window and maintain reliable contraceptive protection.

What happens if I miss a dose of Lovima?

If you are more than 12 hours late taking your tablet, contraceptive protection may be reduced. Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if that means taking two tablets in one day. Continue the rest of the pack as normal and use additional contraception such as condoms for the next 2 days. If you had unprotected sex in the 2 days before missing the pill, consider emergency contraception.

How effective is Lovima at preventing pregnancy?

With perfect use — taking it at the same time every day without missing a dose — Lovima is over 99% effective. With typical use, around 9 in 100 women may become pregnant per year, usually because of missed or late pills. Consistent daily use is key to maintaining its effectiveness.

Who is not eligible to take Lovima?

Lovima is not suitable for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

  • A current or past history of breast cancer
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • Severe liver disease or a liver tumour
  • Known allergy to desogestrel or any tablet ingredient

Always complete the health questionnaire before ordering to confirm suitability.

How does Lovima compare to the combined contraceptive pill?

Lovima contains only progestogen (desogestrel) and no oestrogen, unlike combined pills which contain both hormones. This makes Lovima suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen — such as those who are breastfeeding, smokers over 35, or women with migraines with aura. The combined pill has a slightly more predictable effect on periods, whereas Lovima may cause irregular bleeding, especially in the first few months. You can explore more women's health options at Cured Pharmacy.

What are the most common side effects of Lovima?

The most commonly reported side effects include:

  • Irregular or absent periods
  • Spotting between periods
  • Headache and nausea
  • Mood changes or low mood
  • Breast tenderness and acne

Most of these settle within the first 2–3 months. If side effects persist or concern you, speak to your GP or pharmacist.

Will Lovima affect my periods?

Yes, changes to your menstrual cycle are very common with Lovima. Some women experience irregular spotting or light bleeding, while others find their periods become lighter or stop altogether. This is not harmful, but if you are concerned about absent periods or unexpected bleeding, it is worth speaking to your GP to rule out other causes.

Can I take Lovima while breastfeeding?

Yes, Lovima is considered safe to use while breastfeeding. It is generally recommended to start from 6 weeks postpartum. Because it contains no oestrogen, it does not affect milk supply — unlike combined oral contraceptives, which can reduce milk production. Always confirm with your midwife, health visitor, or GP before starting any new medicine postpartum.

How long can I stay on Lovima?

Lovima can be used as a long-term contraceptive method for as long as contraception is needed, provided it remains suitable for you. There is no set maximum duration of use, but it is good practice to have a review with your GP or sexual health clinic periodically — typically every 12 months — to reassess your contraceptive needs and overall health.

How quickly does fertility return after stopping Lovima?

Fertility typically returns quickly after stopping Lovima — often within the first menstrual cycle. There is no evidence that using desogestrel long-term delays the return of fertility. If you are planning a pregnancy, you can stop taking Lovima at any time and begin trying to conceive straight away.

Can any medicines make Lovima less effective?

Yes. Certain medicines can reduce Lovima's effectiveness by speeding up how your body breaks down desogestrel. These include:

  • Epilepsy medicines: carbamazepine, phenytoin, topiramate
  • Antibiotics: rifampicin, rifabutin
  • HIV medicines: ritonavir
  • St John's Wort herbal remedy

If you take any of these, speak to your pharmacist about additional contraceptive precautions. You can also browse our condoms and sexual health range for barrier method options.

What are the latest findings on desogestrel mini pill safety?

Current evidence from the NHS and MHRA confirms that progestogen-only pills like desogestrel carry a lower risk of blood clots compared to combined oral contraceptives. There is a small increased risk of breast cancer associated with hormonal contraception generally, but this risk returns to baseline within 10 years of stopping. The overall benefit-risk profile of desogestrel remains favourable for most women, and it continues to be widely recommended by UK healthcare professionals.

How Should You Use Lovima?

Taking Lovima correctly is essential for reliable contraceptive protection. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before you start, and follow the steps below carefully. If you have any questions, your pharmacist is always a good first point of contact.

If you vomit within 3–4 hours of taking a tablet, or experience severe diarrhoea, treat this as a missed pill and follow the missed dose guidance in the leaflet.

What Is the Correct Dose of Lovima?

The dose of Lovima is the same for all adult women — one 75mcg tablet taken orally once daily. There is no dose adjustment required based on age within the adult population, though Lovima is not indicated for use before the first menstrual period or after the menopause.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lovima?

There is no clinically preferred time of day — what matters is that you take it at the same time every single day. Many women find it easiest to link pill-taking to a fixed daily habit, such as brushing teeth in the morning or setting a phone reminder for the evening. Consistency is everything with the mini pill, as the missed pill window is 12 hours.

If you are switching from a combined pill, start Lovima the day after your last active tablet. If switching from another progestogen-only pill, start Lovima the day after your last tablet from the previous pack.

How Long Can You Use Lovima For?

Lovima can be used continuously for as long as contraception is required. There is no evidence that long-term use causes harm, and fertility returns quickly after stopping. It is recommended that you have a review with your GP or sexual health clinic at least once a year to reassess your contraceptive needs and overall health.

If you decide to stop taking Lovima — whether to try for a pregnancy or to switch methods — you can do so at any point in your pack. There is no need to finish the strip before stopping.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Lovima?

Most women tolerate Lovima well, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects. The most frequently reported ones relate to changes in your menstrual cycle and are generally not harmful. They often improve after the first 2–3 months as your body adjusts to the hormone.

  • Irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting between periods
  • Absent periods (amenorrhoea)
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Acne
  • Breast tenderness or pain
  • Mood changes, including low mood
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Weight gain

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lovima?

Less common side effects affect fewer users but are still worth being aware of. If any of the following persist or become bothersome, speak to your GP or pharmacist.

  • Vomiting
  • Hair loss or thinning
  • Vaginal infection or discharge
  • Ovarian cysts — these are usually benign and resolve on their own
  • Contact lens intolerance
  • Fatigue
  • Painful periods when they do occur

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lovima?

Serious side effects are rare with progestogen-only pills, but you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following. These may indicate a blood clot or another serious condition that requires urgent assessment.

Seek emergency help if you notice: sudden severe chest pain or tightness; breathlessness or coughing up blood; severe pain or swelling in one leg; sudden severe headache or vision disturbance; or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash. There is also a small increased risk of ectopic pregnancy — if you experience sudden, severe one-sided abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you experience mild side effects such as irregular bleeding or nausea, these often resolve within the first few months and do not usually require stopping the pill. Keep a note of any changes and discuss them at your next GP or pharmacy review. If side effects are persistent, severe, or affecting your quality of life, speak to your GP — there may be an alternative contraceptive method that suits you better.

You can report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety monitoring for everyone.

Can Lovima Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Certain medicines can reduce the effectiveness of Lovima by increasing the speed at which your body metabolises desogestrel. These include enzyme-inducing medicines such as rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, topiramate, and some HIV antiretrovirals. The herbal remedy St John's Wort is also known to reduce contraceptive effectiveness and should be avoided. If you are prescribed any new medicine, always inform your prescriber that you are taking Lovima, and ask your pharmacist whether additional contraceptive precautions are needed.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery