Can I get Microgynon free on the NHS?

Yes. Microgynon is free on the NHS through your GP, a sexual health clinic, or a pharmacy providing the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service.

Can I skip my period on Microgynon?

Yes. You can take packs back to back without the 7 day break to skip the withdrawal bleed. FSRH guidance supports this as safe for most people.

What if I miss a Microgynon pill?

If you are less than 24 hours late, take it now. You are still protected. If more than 24 hours late, it depends on how many pills you missed and which week you are in.

Microgynon 30: What You Need to Know

Reviewed by Usama Ali, MPharm (GPhC: 2224726). April 2026.

Microgynon 30 is a combined contraceptive pill containing ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel. It is the most commonly prescribed combined pill in the UK. Taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective.

What is Microgynon 30?

Microgynon 30 contains two hormones: ethinylestradiol (30 micrograms) and levonorgestrel (150 micrograms). Levonorgestrel pills have the most safety data and the lowest blood clot risk among combined pills.

How does Microgynon work?

It prevents pregnancy in three ways: stops ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the womb lining. More than 99% effective with perfect use, around 91% with typical use.

How do you take Microgynon?

Take one tablet at the same time each day for 21 days, then have a 7 day break. Microgynon has a 24 hour late window.

Is Microgynon the same as Rigevidon?

Yes. Both contain ethinylestradiol 30 micrograms and levonorgestrel 150 micrograms. They are clinically equivalent.

Brand	Active ingredients	Manufacturer	Clinically equivalent?
Microgynon 30	EE 30mcg / LNG 150mcg	Bayer	Yes
Rigevidon	EE 30mcg / LNG 150mcg	Gedeon Richter	Yes
Levest	EE 30mcg / LNG 150mcg	Morningside	Yes
Ovranette	EE 30mcg / LNG 150mcg	Pfizer	Yes

Side effects

Common side effects include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and breakthrough bleeding. These usually settle within 2 to 3 months.

Blood clot risk

Microgynon carries the lowest blood clot risk among combined pills: around 5 to 7 per 10,000 users per year, compared to 2 per 10,000 in non-users. For more detail, read our guide on the pill and blood clots.

Who can take Microgynon?

Microgynon is not suitable if you have a history of blood clots, migraine with aura, smoke and are 35 or over, BMI above 35, or blood pressure at or above 140/90.

How to get Microgynon free

Microgynon is free on the NHS through your GP, a sexual health clinic, or the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service. With Contraception Direct, the consultation, the pill, and the delivery are all free.

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What is Microgynon 30?: A combined pill containing ethinylestradiol 30mcg and levonorgestrel 150mcg. The most commonly prescribed combined pill in the UK.
Is Microgynon the same as Rigevidon?: Yes. They contain the same active ingredients at the same doses and are clinically equivalent.
Can I get Microgynon free on the NHS?: Yes. Through your GP, sexual health clinic, or the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service.
What are the side effects of Microgynon?: Headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and breakthrough bleeding. Usually settle within 2 to 3 months.
Can I skip my period on Microgynon?: Yes. Take packs back to back without the 7 day break. FSRH guidance supports this as safe.
What if I miss a Microgynon pill?: If less than 24 hours late, take it now. If more, it depends on how many you missed and which week.
Who should not take Microgynon?: Not suitable if you have blood clot history, migraine with aura, smoke and are over 35, BMI above 35, or BP above 140/90.