Comparison
Combined pill vs Progestin-only pill
Quick answer
Both are about equally effective (about 7 in 100 pregnant a year in typical use).[src] Progestin-only pills have no estrogen, so they suit breastfeeding and people who cannot take estrogen, but they have a shorter window for late pills.
Combined pill vs Progestin-only pill at a glance
| Combined pill | Progestin-only pill | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | 93% (7 in 100 pregnant a year) | 93% (7 in 100 pregnant a year) |
| How often | Every day | Every day |
| Lasts | One pack a month | One pack a month |
| Hormones | Estrogen + progestin | Progestin only |
| Price (PH) | ₱53.25 to ₱1,437.50 | ₱161 to ₱642 |
| Free at health centers | Yes, subject to supply | Yes, subject to supply |
| Breastfeeding | Not in the early months | Suitable |
The difference, explained
Combined pills (Trust, Lady, Diane-35, Yaz) usually give a predictable monthly bleed and some can help acne. They are not suitable for smokers 35 and over, people with migraine with aura, a past clot or high blood pressure.[src]
Progestin-only pills (Daphne, Exluton, Cerazette) are taken every day with no break and often cause irregular bleeding. Late-pill windows are 3 hours for lynestrenol and 12 hours for desogestrel, versus 24 hours for combined pills.[src]
Both need a prescription in the Philippines and both are often free at health centers.
Which may suit you
- Combined pill may suit you if: Estrogen is safe for you and you want predictable bleeds or acne help.
- Progestin-only pill may suit you if: You are breastfeeding or should avoid estrogen.
Your doctor decides with your full health history. Not sure where to start? Try Find my method.
Three legal routes
Get a prescription
All birth control pills need a prescription in the Philippines. Pick the route that suits you. For adults 18 and over.
Free at a health center
Barangay health centers, RHUs, DOH hospitals and Likhaan. Subject to supply.
See an OB-GYN in person
Clinic visit, prescription in hand. Bring it to any licensed pharmacy.
Online consult
A licensed doctor by video or chat. From ₱700 on some platforms.
Online consult options
For adults 18 and over. Fees are set by each provider and can change.
Frequently asked questions
Is the mini pill less effective?
In typical use the two are similar. The mini pill has a shorter window for late pills.
This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or switching birth control.
Sources
- Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers, WHO and Johns Hopkins CCP
- Combined pill: who can and cannot take it, NHS
- Managing missed pills (Family Planning Handbook), WHO and Johns Hopkins CCP