Cilest

Who is Cilest suitable for?

Cilest is a popular combined contraceptive pill which contains the synthetic hormones of oestrogen and progestogen. Cilest is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy if taken properly. Just like all other combined contraceptive pills Cilest is taken daily and is safe & reliable. Cilest can be taken by any woman except if you are breastfeeding, have had a stroke, thrombosis and/or suffer from any conditions related to the liver and kidney. Like all other contraceptive pills sold in the UK, cilest is a prescription only medicine. You must have a consultation with a doctor or a health professional and have your blood pressure checked along with a discussion over your past medical history before starting any new contraceptive pill.

How does cilest work / stop pregnancy?

Cilest, just like any other contraceptive pill works by preventing ovulation. It does this by using the synthetic versions of the two natural hormones which naturally occur in the body and makes the mucus around the womb entrance thicker to prevent sperm from the vagina reaching the egg.

Is cilest different from other contraceptive pills?

There is a great variety of contraceptive pills available in the UK; the main difference between them is the hormones in the pill. Cilest contains the active ingredients ethinylestradiol and norgestimate, synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone. Both of these hormones combined make create a reliable contraceptive pill.

When can I start taking Cilest?

If you have been checked by a health professional and newly prescribed Cilest, you should take the first pill on the first day of your period. You can start a different day but you will need to use temporary contraception like a condom for a week until cilest becomes effective. Avoid taking cilest or any other contraceptive pill if you suspect you might be pregnant.

Can I take cilest if I smoke?

Any contraceptive pill which contains the hormone oestrogen is not recommended for smokers above the age of 35. This is because there is a higher risk of blood clots and thrombosis linked to regular intake of oestrogen. If you are suffering from any chronic illnesses, you should book a consultation with your regular GP to check your suitability.

Does cilest protect against STIs?

No, cilest is just a contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancies so you can enjoy spontaneous sex; it provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections. You must use a condom unless you are sure your partner has had an STI test and does not carry any infections. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HPV and herpes are common infections, which often do not show any symptoms so you have to get tested to confirm.

Cilest contains the active ingredients norgestimate 0.25mg and ethinylestradiol 0.035mg which are similar to the hormones oestrogen and progestogen.

Take one tablet daily at the same time each day (preferably evening) for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7 day break with no tablets. You should first start Cilest on day one of your period unless it has already begun then you should start on day 5 whether or not bleeding has stopped. If started on day 5, an additional method of contraception, such as a condom, should be used to prevent pregnancy.

Very common side effects of taking Cilest (affecting 1 in 10 people) include

• Headache
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Menstrual problems (painful or irregular periods)
• Gastrointestinal problems

Common side effects of taking Cilest (affecting 1 in 100 people) include:

• Acne
• Back pain
• Chest pain
• Constipation
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Mood changes
• Weight gain

Rare but serious side effects of taking Cilest can include:

• Increased heart rate
• Blood clots and thrombosis
• Slight increase in the risk of breast and cervical cancer