Choosing the right birth control pill can be overwhelming, especially when two options seem so similar. Hailey and Hailey Fe are both combination birth control pills, but they have some key differences. In this guide, we’ll compare the two to help you decide which one might be right for you.

What Are Hailey and Hailey Fe Birth Control Pills?

Both Hailey and Hailey Fe are combination oral contraceptives that contain two hormones:

• Ethinyl Estradiol (0.02 mg) – A synthetic form of estrogen.
• Norethindrone Acetate (1 mg) – A type of progestin that prevents pregnancy.

These pills work primarily by:

1. Preventing Ovulation – Stops the ovaries from releasing eggs.
2. Thickening Cervical Mucus – Makes it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
3. Thinning the Uterine Lining – Reduces the likelihood of implantation.

The Key Difference: Iron Content

• Hailey Fe contains ferrous fumarate (iron) in the inactive pills, while Hailey does not.
• The iron in Hailey Fe does not affect pregnancy prevention, but it may help prevent iron deficiency in some women.

Effectiveness: How Well Do They Prevent Pregnancy?

• With Perfect Use: 99% effective.
• With Typical Use: About 91% effective (missed doses or improper use lower effectiveness).
• Hailey and Hailey Fe are equally effective when taken correctly.

Pros and Cons of Hailey & Hailey Fe

✅ Pros of Both Pills

• Highly effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly.
• Regulates menstrual cycles, leading to more predictable periods.
• Reduces menstrual cramps and PMS symptoms.
• Helps with hormonal acne by lowering androgen levels.
• May reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.

✅ Pros of Hailey Fe (With Iron)

• Provides a small amount of iron supplementation in the placebo pills.
• Beneficial for women prone to iron deficiency or anemia.
• Helps maintain iron levels during menstruation, reducing fatigue and weakness.

❌ Cons of Both Pills

• Possible side effects: nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes.
• Requires daily use – missing a pill can reduce effectiveness.
• Slightly increased risk of blood clots, especially for smokers over 35.
• May cause spotting or breakthrough bleeding, especially in the first few months.

❌ Cons of Hailey Fe

• The added iron is unnecessary for women who already get enough iron from their diet.
• Some users report constipation or stomach discomfort from the iron in Hailey Fe.

Who Should Consider Hailey vs. Hailey Fe?

Choose Hailey if:

✔️ You prefer a standard combination birth control pill without additional supplements. ✔️ You have a balanced diet and don’t need extra iron. ✔️ You want a pill that’s just for pregnancy prevention with no added ingredients.

Choose Hailey Fe if:

✔️ You have heavy periods or are prone to anemia and need iron support. ✔️ You want an added nutritional benefit in your birth control. ✔️ Your doctor has recommended an iron supplement and you want a convenient way to take it.

How to Take Hailey or Hailey Fe Birth Control

1. Take One Pill Daily – At the same time every day for maximum effectiveness.
2. Follow the Pack Order –
   • Hailey: 21 active pills + 7 placebo pills.
   • Hailey Fe: 21 active pills + 7 iron-containing placebo pills.
3. Use Backup Protection – If you miss a pill, use condoms or another contraceptive method.

What Happens If You Miss a Pill?

• Missed 1 Active Pill: Take it as soon as you remember and continue the next pill at your usual time.
• Missed 2 or More Active Pills: Take the most recent missed pill, skip the others, and use a backup method for at least 7 days.
• Missed Placebo Pills: No need to worry—these pills do not contain hormones.

Can These Pills Cause Weight Gain?

There is no scientific evidence that Hailey or Hailey Fe causes significant weight gain. Some users may experience mild bloating or water retention, but this is usually temporary.

Can You Get Pregnant After Stopping Hailey or Hailey Fe?

Yes, fertility typically returns within 1-3 months after stopping the pill. Some women ovulate immediately, while others take a little longer to resume their regular cycle.

Common Side Effects of Hailey and Hailey Fe

Most side effects are mild and often improve after a few months of use. They may include:

• Nausea or upset stomach.
• Breast tenderness.
• Mild headaches.
• Mood changes.
• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting.

Who Should Avoid Hailey and Hailey Fe?

You should avoid these pills if you:

• Are over 35 and smoke (higher risk of blood clots).
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Experience migraines with aura.
• Have a history of blood clots or stroke.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor for safer options).

Alternative Birth Control Options

If neither Hailey nor Hailey Fe seems right for you, consider:

• Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills) – For those who can’t take estrogen.
• IUDs (Hormonal or Copper) – Long-term contraception with minimal daily management.
• Birth Control Patch or Ring – Convenient alternatives to daily pills.
• Barrier Methods (Condoms, Diaphragms) – Non-hormonal options for protection.

Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?

Both Hailey and Hailey Fe are effective, low-dose combination birth control pills with similar benefits and side effects. The primary difference is that Hailey Fe contains iron, making it a better choice for women prone to anemia.

Before choosing between Hailey and Hailey Fe, talk to your healthcare provider about your health needs, iron levels, and personal preference.

References

• Planned Parenthood. “How Birth Control Pills Work.” www.plannedparenthood.org
• Mayo Clinic. “Birth Control Pills: Risks and Benefits.” www.mayoclinic.org
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). “Contraceptive Options.” www.acog.org