Risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) for drospirenone-containing combined oral contraceptives (COCs), is higher than for levonorgestrel and those containing desogestrel or gestodene. The risk of VTE with drospirenone containing pills remains very small and, like other oral contraceptives, is less than that associated with pregnancy.

Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne) is accepted for use as emergency hormonal contraception for women presenting between 72 to 120 hours and for whom an emergency IUD is not preferred or possible. It may also be considered for use between the 0-120 hours period when sexual intercourse has occurred at mid-cycle as it may be more effective than levornorgestrel. Note that ellaOne can be used only once per cycle, should not be used if the woman is taking concomitant enzyme inducing drugs, and does not facilitate quick start oral contraception after its use as a barrier method has to be used until next menstrual period.

Approved as a second-line progesterone-only pill that can be considered if desogestrel is not appropriate after a suitable trial (minimum 3 months)

for restricted use in heavy menstrual bleeding only

Jaydess (levonorgestrel) Intrauterine system is accepted as a third line option for women requesting long acting reversible contraception when an implant is unacceptable or unsuitable and a Mirena fitting has been or is likely to be unsuccessful. Jaydess provides 3 years of contraceptive cover compared to 5 years for Mirena.

Kyleena is accepted onto the formulary where Mirena may not be appropriate