Microgynon FAQs

Microgynon is a combination birth control pill used to prevent pregnancy. Certain types of medications will affect how Microgynon works. In addition, it is not recommended that you mix certain things such as herbal supplements or herbal remedies with this birth control pill. You may need to stop taking Microgynon at certain times. It can also cause changes in your skin's pigmentation.

Can I Take St. John's Wort with Microgynon?

• St. John's Wort, or Hypericum perforatum, is an herb that is sometimes used as a natural treatment for depression. If you are already taking St. John's Wort, you should stop using it immediately and inform your health care professional at your next visit. If you do not use St. John's Wort, you should not start while you are taking Microgynon.

Will Microgynon Cause Skin Changes?

• Microgynon may cause a change in your skin's pigmentation, which may manifest itself in the appearance of brown patches on your face and body. This condition is called chloasma. You may be able to reduce this by avoiding prolonged periods of sun exposure.

Do I Need to Stop Microgynon Before Surgery?

• If you are scheduled for major surgery, you must stop taking Microgynon six weeks before the operation. In addition, if you are having surgery on your legs or undergoing treatment for varicose veins, you must stop using Microgynon.

  If something happens to cause you to be confined to bed, such as an accident or severe or prolonged illness, or if your leg is in a cast or otherwise immobilized, you must stop Microgynon and stay off it until your health care professional advises you that it is safe to resume taking it.

Will Other Medications Affect Microgynon?

• Certain medications can diminish the effectiveness of Microgynon. These include antibiotics such as Ampicillin and Rifampicin, which is a form of Rifamycin. Medications taken internally for fungal infections and certain types of anti-inflammatory drugs can affect how Microgynon works. In addition, drugs used to control seizures can have an effect on Microgynon.

  If you are taking any of these medications, you may need to use an alternative form of birth control while you are on them. If you take medication for a chronic condition, you may need to talk to your health care professional about the effectiveness of Microgynon in relation to your medication.

Who Should Not Take Microgynon?

• If you have diabetes and have suffered blood vessel damage as a result, you should not take Microgynon. Anyone with a history of blood clots should not take Microgynon and may need to ask a health care professional about the safety of taking any type of birth control pill.

  If you have liver disease or are in danger of liver failure or if you have insufficient kidney function or have kidney failure, you should not take Microgynon.