Rigevidon

Rigevidon is a combined contraceptive pill containing the active ingredients ethinylestradiol 30 mcg (a synthetic form of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel 150 mcg (a synthetic form of progesterone).

The combination of these active ingredients inhibits the release of the hormones necessary for an egg to mature and be released from the ovaries, preventing pregnancy. Rigevidon is a monophasic oral tablet, meaning each pill contains the same amount of hormone.

Rigevidon is used to prevent unplanned pregnancies. It is 99% effective at stopping ovulation, reducing the probability of sperm reaching the egg following intercourse, and preventing a fertilised egg from attaching to the womb lining should fertilisation occur.

Rigevidon contains synthetic oestrogen (ethinylestradiol 30 mcg) and progesterone (levonorgestrel 150 mcg). These hormones primarily work by preventing ovulation, which means they stop the ovaries from releasing an egg. Additionally, they thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. They also thin the uterine lining, reducing the likelihood of a fertilised egg implanting and developing.

Rigevidon pills usually come in packs of 21. Each Rigevidon pill is marked with the day of the week it should be taken. Take one tablet whole with water daily for 21 consecutive days. Try to make sure each Rigevidon pill is taken at the same time each day. After 21 consecutive days of taking the pill, take a 7-day break from treatment. During this time, you will most likely experience a 'withdrawal bleed' from the hormones in the pill, mimicking a period; this is normal and not a cause for concern.

After the 7-day break, resume taking one Rigevidon pill per day as you did before. If you have been taking them correctly, you will find that you always start each new strip of Rigevidon tablets on the same day of the week and experience withdrawal bleeding on the same day of the month.

Rigevidon can prevent pregnancy immediately if it is started during the first five days of the menstrual cycle in women with regular periods. If taken within this timeframe, ovulation is inhibited from the outset.

If Rigevidon is taken after the fifth day of the menstrual cycle, it may not provide effective contraception immediately. In such cases, it can take up to seven days for Rigevidon to become fully effective. During these seven days, it is advisable to use a barrier method of contraception, such as condoms, to prevent pregnancy.

For those with irregular menstrual cycles, where the cycle length varies significantly from the typical 28 days, it is also recommended to use a barrier method for the first seven days of taking Rigevidon. This precaution is necessary because the timing of ovulation could be unpredictable, and additional protection is needed to ensure contraceptive effectiveness during the initial week.

When taken correctly, Rigevidon is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. If a pill is missed or you experience vomiting and/or diarrhoea when taking this pill, there might be a risk of pregnancy, and it is advised to use a condom alongside Rigevidon in these cases.

Rigevidon should not be taken by individuals affected by any of the following conditions:

• If you have or ever have had blood clots (thrombosis) in the legs, lungs, or other organs
• If you have a condition which makes you more susceptible to blood clots
• If you experience severe and recurring migraines (migraines with aura)
• If you have a condition which increases the chance of clots in the arteries, such as severe diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, or hyperhomocysteinaemia
• If you have liver disease or poor liver function
• If you are pregnant
• If you have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• If you have (or have ever had) or if you are suspected of having breast cancer or cancer of the genital organs
• If you are on certain medications (please inform your pharmacist or GP of any other medication you are taking)

Rigevidon is medically identical to Microgynon, with both of them containing the same active ingredients and dosage (ethinylestradiol 30 mcg and levonorgestrel 150 mcg). The primary difference between Rigevidon and Microgynon is the manufacturer and the brand name.

Rigevidon contains the same active ingredients and dosage as Levest. The only difference between Rigevidon and Levest combined contraceptive pills is the branding.

The combined pill contains both oestrogen and progesterone, which work together to stop the ovaries from releasing an egg every month. On the other hand, the progesterone-only pill (mini-pill) contains only progesterone and works by thickening the mucus of the cervix to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.

It is recommended to take Rigevidon at the same time every day to maintain hormone levels. Some people find it easier to take Rigevidon first thing in the morning or immediately before going to bed as doing so may make it easier to remember to take a dose at the correct time.

If you miss a Rigevidon pill, it is important to take it as soon as you remember. If you miss one pill at any time, it is unlikely to compromise contraception; however, missing multiple doses will negatively impact the effectiveness of Rigevidon at preventing unplanned pregnancy.

If you forget to take it within 12 hours of your usual time, your protection against pregnancy should not be affected.

In cases where it's been more than 12 hours, take the missed pill immediately and the next one at your usual time, even if it means taking two pills in one day. In these cases, it is recommended to use additional contraception, such as condoms, for the next 7 days for maximum prevention against pregnancy.

While Rigevidon does not completely stop periods, you might experience a lighter and shorter withdrawal bleeding that is caused by the drop in hormone levels during the 7-day break window after taking one Rigevidon pill per day for 21 consecutive days.

You can stop taking Rigevidon at any time, but your body will need some time to adjust to the withdrawal and changes in hormone levels. Initially, you might experience irregular periods, mood changes, and potential skin issues as your hormone levels return to their natural levels.

This adjustment period typically lasts about three months, during which your menstrual cycle will gradually normalise. If you plan to avoid pregnancy, use alternative contraception immediately as fertility can return almost immediately.

There is not enough substantial evidence to suggest that Rigevidon causes weight gain. Limited studies suggest that 1 in 10 women may experience weight fluctuations in the first few months of taking Rigevidon as their body adjusts to the pill, although this can also be attributed to lifestyle changes. It is important to note that reactions to contraceptives will vary between individuals.

Rigevidon should not be taken during breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding and want to take a contraceptive pill, it is recommended to discuss this with a GP or medical professional to discuss suitable and safe options.

There are several alternative oral contraceptive pills you could consider if Rigevidon is not suitable: