Camila®

Camila® fits into the category of birth control known commonly as the “mini pill.” Another name you may hear is PoP, short for progestin-only pills. Unlike the more
frequently prescribed combination pills, Camila®

and other mini-pills like it, do not contain any estrogen. They are used for primarily the same purpose however – pregnancy prevention. One large difference is that only about half the women taking Camila® will stop ovulating, unlike combination pills which stop ovulation when taken perfectly. There is also less progestin present in PoPs than there is in the combination pill. The mini pill however does cause two similar changes in the body that are also seen in those taking the combination pill. In order to prevent the sperm from traveling to the egg as easily, Camila® causes the mucus of the vagina to become thicker in texture. Additionally, the uterine wall will become thicker which makes it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant. The generic name for Camila® is norethindrone.

Camila® Side Effects

While Camila® is safe for use in most women, there are some side effects that are fairly common though they will not impact everyone. The most common Camila® side effects are irregular bleeding (this is consistently the most common side effect of all mini-pill users), breast tenderness, headache, weight gain, excess hair growth on face and body, nausea and dizziness.

If you experience any Camila® side effects which you think are abnormal, it’s important to check with your doctor before you continue on with normal use. Because birth control pills contain active hormones, it’s not uncommon to experience slight changes to your body and most often these are not dangerous.

If you have any of the following, you should see your doctor immediately: lumps in the breast, depression that is new or becoming worse, severe stomach discomfort, continuous abnormal vaginal bleeding, yellowing of your eyes or skin and dark colored urine.

Camila® Mini Pill

Many are concerned about whether or not the Camila® mini pill could be effective for them. In many cases, the answer is yes. They must be taken at the same time each day (24 hours apart) in order to constitute “perfect use.” In these perfect use cases it’s estimated that 1 in 200 women will become pregnant in their first year of use. If you are a more average pill taker (may forget a pill, take a dose late etc.) the odds of pregnancy increase to 1 in 20 during the first year of use. It’s also important to understand that the pill does not protect against any STDs. If you are unfamiliar with your partners STD status and sexual history it is wise to use a barrier method for protection against sexually transmitted diseases and infections.

There are some women who are not a good match for the Camila® mini pill. If you believe there is a chance you could be pregnant, you should not begin taking the pill. Additionally, if you have breast cancer, uncontrolled bleeding between periods or are on certain medications, your doctor may not recommend the Camila® mini pill. Because interactions can take place, the pill is available through a doctor’s prescription only and should not be shared with anyone else.