Loestrin Fe 1/20 is a low‑dose combined oral contraceptive (birth control pill).
What the name means
- Active tablet contains ethinyl estradiol 20 micrograms and norethindrone 1 mg.
- The “Fe” indicates iron-containing tablets included in the pack (you typically get 7 iron-only pills to supply iron during the week you’re not taking hormones).
How it’s usually taken
- Pack typically has 28 tablets: 21 active hormone pills taken daily, followed by 7 iron/placebo pills. You’ll have a bleed during the week you’re on the placebo/iron pills.
- Take one tablet by mouth every day at about the same time.
- Start options:
- Day 1 start: start taking on the first day of your period; no backup needed if you’re starting on day 1.
- Sunday start: start on the first Sunday after your period starts; you may need backup contraception for 7 days.
- Quick start: you can start right away, but use backup contraception for 7 days.
What to do if you miss a pill
- Missed 1 active pill: take it as soon as you remember, then resume normal dosing (you may take two pills in one day). No backup needed unless it’s near your backup window.
- Missed 2 or more active pills: use backup contraception for 7 days and consider a backup plan if you’ve had unprotected sex recently; check the package insert or talk to a pharmacist/doctor for specific steps.
Common side effects
- Nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes, dizziness
- Breakthrough or lighter/heavier bleeding, especially early on
- Rare but serious: signs of blood clots (leg swelling/pain, chest pain, severe headache), stroke, liver problems, high blood pressure. Seek urgent care if you have severe symptoms.
Important interactions and cautions
- Antibiotics (some) and certain anticonvulsants, HIV meds, St. John’s wort can reduce effectiveness.
- Smoking increases risk of blood clots, especially if you’re over 35 or have other risk factors.
- Not for use in pregnancy, certain clotting disorders, liver disease, breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers, or certain heart conditions unless advised by a clinician.
If you have specific questions (e.g., is it safe with migraine with aura, thyroid issues, smoking, or other meds), or you want guidance on starting a pack, tell me a bit more about your health history and what you’re taking now, and I can tailor the info. If you’re already taking this and have concerns about side effects or missed doses, I can help with that too.