Aygestin: What It Is, How It Works, and Alternatives You Should Know

When you hear Aygestin, a brand name for the synthetic hormone norethindrone, commonly used in birth control and hormone therapy. Also known as norethindrone, it works by stopping ovulation and changing the lining of the uterus to prevent pregnancy or manage menstrual disorders. Many women take it for irregular periods, endometriosis, or as part of hormone replacement therapy—but it’s not the only option out there.

Aygestin belongs to a group of drugs called progestins, which are lab-made versions of progesterone, the natural hormone your body makes. It’s different from combined birth control pills that include estrogen. That makes Aygestin a go-to for women who can’t take estrogen due to health risks like blood clots or high blood pressure. It’s also used off-label for conditions like PCOS and abnormal uterine bleeding. But if Aygestin doesn’t work for you—or causes side effects like mood swings, weight gain, or headaches—there are other progestin-only pills, IUDs, or even non-hormonal options to consider.

Related medications like norethindrone acetate, a closely related compound used in similar hormone treatments and Depo-Provera, an injectable progestin given every three months serve similar purposes but differ in how they’re taken and how long they last. Some women prefer daily pills like Aygestin for more control. Others choose long-acting options to avoid remembering a daily dose. And then there are non-hormonal treatments for conditions like endometriosis, which can include pain relievers or surgery—depending on severity.

The posts below cover real comparisons between hormone therapies, from birth control pills to treatments for heavy bleeding and menopause symptoms. You’ll find clear breakdowns of how Aygestin stacks up against other progestins, what side effects to watch for, and when it makes sense to switch. Whether you’re just starting hormone therapy or looking for a better fit, these guides give you the facts without the fluff.