Vomiting or Severe Diarrhea on the Mini Pill: Ask About Your Exact Type
PeriodsArticleGet prompt professional advice about your pill and any emergency contraception needs.
In this article
If you vomit or have severe watery diarrhea while taking the progestogen-only pill, ask a pharmacist, sexual health clinic or GP promptly for advice. You may need emergency contraception, and the mini pill can affect how some options work.1
Start with the product and timing
Say: “This is my pill name. I took it at this time and was sick at this time. What should I do now?”
If the name or time is uncertain, say so. Do not wait to assemble a perfect record before contacting the service.
NHS1 guidance says the next step depends on the time passed and whether you take a traditional, desogestrel or drospirenone pill. One person’s instructions may not apply to yours.1
Have the plan explained
Ask: “Do I need emergency contraception? How should I take my pills, and what additional protection do I need?”
Have the professional check your exact pill and explain the individual instructions.
Period, Handled includes a visit script. Use it to organize the questions and instructions you want clarified. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
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Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- NHS, 2024What to do if you’re sick or have diarrhoea when taking the progestogen-only pill (opens in a new tab)abc
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