Femodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing two hormones — gestodene (a progestogen) and ethinylestradiol (an oestrogen). It prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the womb lining to reduce implantation.
Each pack contains 21 active tablets. When taken correctly, Femodene is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Femodene Tablets
From: £14.99
- Take one tablet daily at the same time each day.
- Take 21 tablets, followed by a 7-day pill-free break (no tablets).
- Start the next pack after 7 days, even if bleeding continues.
- Withdrawal bleeding usually occurs during the 7-day break.
Starting Femodene:
- Start on Day 1 of your period for immediate protection.
- If starting on Days 2–5, use extra contraception for 7 days.
If you miss a tablet:
- Less than 12 hours late: take it as soon as remembered and continue as normal.
- More than 12 hours late: take the last missed tablet immediately, continue as normal, and use extra contraception for 7 days.
- Missing multiple tablets increases pregnancy risk — seek medical advice.
If vomiting or severe diarrhoea occurs within 3–4 hours of taking a tablet, take another tablet as soon as possible and use extra contraception for 7 days.
After childbirth:
- If not breastfeeding: start 21 days after delivery.
- If breastfeeding: seek medical advice before use.
Serious side effects (seek urgent medical help):
- Blood clots (DVT, PE, stroke, heart attack).
- Sudden chest pain, breathlessness, leg swelling, severe headache, or vision/speech problems.
- Severe allergic reaction.
- Liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes).
Common side effects:
- Headache or migraine.
- Nausea, stomach upset.
- Breast tenderness.
- Mood changes.
- Irregular bleeding, especially in the first few months.
Report suspected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
Do NOT take Femodene if you:
- Are pregnant.
- Have current or previous blood clots, stroke, heart attack, breast cancer, or severe liver disease.
- Have unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- Are taking certain Hepatitis C treatments.
Speak to a clinician before use if you:
- Are over 35 and smoke.
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, migraines, epilepsy, or heart/kidney disease.
- Have a history of blood clots, gallstones, lupus, or chloasma.
Other important information:
- Slightly increases the risk of blood clots and some cancers.
- Does not protect against STIs — condoms are recommended.
- Some medicines (e.g. rifampicin, carbamazepine, St John’s Wort) reduce effectiveness.
How effective is Femodene?
Over 99% effective with perfect use.
Does fertility return after stopping?
Yes — fertility returns quickly after stopping.
Will it change my periods?
You will usually have a regular withdrawal bleed during the 7-day break.
Can I take it after having a baby?
Yes, if not breastfeeding, from 21 days after delivery. Breastfeeding women should seek advice.
What should I do if I forget a pill?
Take the last missed pill as soon as possible and use extra contraception for 7 days if more than 12 hours late.
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