What is Camila and how does it work?
Camila is a type of oral contraceptive pill (OCP) that only contains one type of hormone. This is a progestin called norethindrone, and helps to prevent pregnancy by making the fluid in the cervix thicker. This stops the sperm from reaching the egg, even if the body has produced one.
Progestin-only pills also prevent ovulation in some women, which means that the ovary doesn’t release an egg. So even if a sperm did make it through the cervix, there would be no egg to fertilize.
Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs) tend to be more widely taken than progestin-only pills. But POPs like Camila are recommended for women who can’t take combined birth control because they have a health factor that makes them sensitive to estrogen.
How effective is Camila?
If you take Camila perfectly, every day as instructed by the package insert, it’s over 99% effective at stopping pregnancy. In birth control terms, over 99% means that out of 100 women using the contraceptive over 12 months, fewer than one will get pregnant.
“Typical” use is a little less reliable as it takes into account real-world mistakes, like forgetting the occasional pill or taking it late. The mini pill is 91% effective when taken typically, so nine in 100 women using it over one year will become pregnant.
Does Camila only come in one dosage?
There is no ‘Camila Low’ alternative. If you are experiencing Camila side effects or want to find out about a higher dose to help with symptoms of PMS, you should let us know.
The good news is there are many Camila alternatives, both hormonal and non-hormonal, so if you don't find the perfect method of contraception immediately, don’t worry. Sometimes there’s a bit of trial and error with it.