Would a progestin-only pill be a good option for me? Are there any risks of blood clots with this type of pill?

Question

Hello, I would like to consider using a progestin-only birth control pill because I am afraid of getting blood clots. Does the progestin-only pill cause acne? Does it increase the risk of having ovarian cysts? Are my periods always irregular? I have been using the birth control pill with estrogen and progestin for 8 years. I get acne easily on my chin and back and I have a cyst on my right ovary that probably appeared after I stopped taking the pill for a month. Is it possible to have blood clots after taking the combined pill for 8 years? Hello, I have had acne on my chin since I was a teenager even on the combined pill. My doctor has not said much other than to suggest antibiotics or creams. I take zinc and that helps a lot. For my cyst, I have to have another ultrasound in early April to follow up if it gets bigger. I have a single cyst of 2.6 cm. The doctor thinks that the cyst appeared after I stopped taking the pill. I have been on the pill continuously for 8 years and overnight I stopped it and a few weeks later I had a cyst. I have been back on the pill ever since.

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello ma'am, would it be possible to know what the doctor told you about the cyst and the acne? Thanks for the feedback, please forgive the delay! First of all, you have to keep in mind that progestin-only contraceptives do not have any indication for acne treatment. They are not known to cause acne either... As for clots, current data seems to suggest a lower risk with progestin-only contraceptives, but this has not yet been fully elucidated. There are several options such as continuous or cyclic tablets, a subcutaneous implant or an intramuscular depot. Your doctor will be able to explain them to you in more detail if you wish. Sincerely, Tom Samaha, pharmacist