Which statement about the progestin-only pill (mini pill) is correct?
- A It suppresses ovulation reliably in all users
- B It must be taken at the same time each day, with a permissible delay of not more than 3 hours ✓
- C It is contraindicated during lactation
- D It contains both oestrogen and progestogen in low dose
Correct answer: B. It must be taken at the same time each day, with a permissible delay of not more than 3 hours
Explanation
The conventional progestin-only pill (norethisterone 350 micrograms) has a narrow window: it must be taken within the same 3 hours daily because its main action is cervical mucus thickening, which is lost quickly. Ovulation suppression is inconsistent, so efficacy depends on strict timing. It is actually the preferred oral contraceptive during breastfeeding, and it contains no oestrogen, which kills options A, C and D together.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.