Why Mini Pills Are Hard to Find in Japan – What You Need to Know

If you’ve recently moved to Japan and rely on mini pills (progestin-only pills) for birth control, you may be surprised to learn that they are not commercially available here. This article explains the current situation and introduces safe alternatives available at our clinic.

What Are Mini Pills?

Mini pills are progestin-only oral contraceptives—they do not contain estrogen. These are commonly used by:

• Women who are breastfeeding
• Those who are sensitive to estrogen
• Women with health conditions that prevent the use of combined pills

In many countries, mini pills are a popular choice due to their lighter hormonal impact and reduced estrogen-related risks.

Are Mini Pills Available in Japan?

Unfortunately, mini pills are not officially approved in Japan. Only combined oral contraceptives (containing both estrogen and progestin) are available at pharmacies and medical institutions.

This means:

• Mini pills are not stocked at Japanese pharmacies
• Most clinics, including ours, do not provide mini pills
• Brands you may be familiar with abroad are not legally available in Japan

Looking for Estrogen-Free Birth Control?

If you’re looking for a long-term contraceptive option without estrogen, we offer the Mirena intrauterine system (IUS) at Ashiya Women’s Clinic.
Mirena is a small T-shaped device placed in the uterus that releases a low dose of progestin locally. It provides:

• Up to 5 years of contraception
• No estrogen exposure
• Lighter menstrual bleeding for many women
• High effectiveness comparable to sterilization—but fully reversible

Mirena may be a good alternative for those who were using mini pills and now want long-term, low-hormone contraception in Japan.

What Should You Do If You’re Using Mini Pills?

If you’ve been using mini pills in your home country and are now in Japan:

• Bring an extra supply with you when relocating, if possible
• Talk to a local gynecologist about safe alternatives available in Japan
• Consider long-acting, estrogen-free options like Mirena, which we provide at Ashiya Women’s Clinic
• You can also call clinics in your area to ask whether they import mini pills privately—but this process can be time-consuming and availability is not guaranteed
• Avoid self-importing medications without professional guidance, as this may carry legal and safety risks

Support for Foreign Residents

At Ashiya Women’s Clinic, we welcome international patients and offer medical consultations in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Our team will listen to your needs and guide you through the available contraceptive options in Japan.

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Ashiya Women’s Clinic

🚉 3-min walk from JR Ashiya Station
📍 4th floor, 5-19 Oharacho, Ashiya, Hyogo, Japan　Google Map
🕒 Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri：10:00〜13:00 / 15:00〜19:00
　   Sat：10:00〜17:00（Reservations only after 13:00）
      Closed on Wed, Sun, and National Holidays
💻 Online booking available – no phone reservations.
🏠Official Website

We’re here to support your reproductive health in Japan with safe, evidence-based care. If you have questions about contraception or any other women’s health concerns, feel free to book a consultation.

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