Azalia

Short-acting birth control

Azalia is a progestogen-only pill offering reliable contraception without oestrogen.

Remember, if you’re eligible, Azalia pills are free.

 
 

Eligibility criteria for free contraception:

Requirement 1.

You’re a person with a uterus.

Requirement 2.

You’re aged between 17 and 35.

Requirement 3.

You’re living in Rep. of Ireland.

Requirement 4.

You’ve a PPS number (PPSN).

 
 

Benefits of Azalia:

  • Does not contain oestrogen, making it suitable for women who cannot take combined pills.

  • Can be used while breastfeeding without affecting milk supply.

  • Offers effective protection against pregnancy when taken correctly.

  • May help reduce period pain and make bleeding lighter or stop altogether.

  • Suitable for women over 35 who smoke, unlike some other contraceptives.

  • Daily use without the need for a break, simplifying the routine.

  • Lower risk of certain hormone-related side effects compared to combined pills.

  • Discreet and easy to carry, with no interruptions to intimacy or lifestyle.

 
 

Azalia FAQs*

Check out some of our more frequently asked questions about Azalia here.

*
While we strive to keep this page current, product information may change.

Patients should consult a healthcare professional and refer to the leaflet on medicines.ie.

  • Azalia is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill, often called the mini pill, which helps prevent pregnancy without the use of oestrogen.

  • It thickens the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg, and may also stop ovulation in some users.

  • Azalia is suitable for most women, especially those who are breastfeeding, over 35 or cannot take oestrogen for health reasons.

  • Yes, it's important to take it at the same time daily to maintain its effectiveness. A delay of more than three hours may reduce protection.

  • Yes, Azalia is considered safe to use while breastfeeding and does not affect milk supply.

  • It may cause changes, such as lighter bleeding, irregular spotting or no periods at all, which is common with progestogen-only pills.

  • If you're more than three hours late, take the missed pill as soon as you remember and use extra protection for the next two days.

  • No, Azalia does not protect against STIs. You’ll need to use condoms for protection against infections.

  • Some women may experience mood changes, acne, breast tenderness or irregular bleeding, but many tolerate it well.

  • Yes, Azalia is a prescription-only medication and should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.