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Combined pill
There are two main kinds of contraceptive pill: the combined pill, and the progestogen only pill. Here we outline the basics of the combined pill.

What is it?

Tablets containing two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, that stop the woman from ovulating (releasing an egg) every month. Most combined pills are taken one-a-day for 21 days, followed by a pill-free break of seven days, when a withdrawal bleed (like a light period) happens.

Advantages:

  • Can reduce bleeding and period pains

  • May help with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)

  • Protects against cancer of the ovary and womb

  • Doesn't interfere with sex


Disadvantages:

  • With most pills, you are not protected against pregnancy for the first few days of use. Discuss this with doctor or nurse

  • May have temporary side effects

  • May slightly increase the risk of breast cancer

  • Not effective if taken more than 12 hours late, or after vomiting or severe diarrhoea.

  • No protection against most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)


Not suitable for:

  • Smokers and overweight women

  • Breastfeeding mothers

  • Women with high blood pressure or severe migraines

  • Women at risk of blood clots

  • Diabetics


Effectiveness:

If taken according to the instructions in the pack, over 99% effective.

Go here for information on the progestogen only pill

Want more advice?

The Family Planning Association (FPA) can give you confidential information and advice on contraception and sexual health. Call 0845 3101334.

Brook Advisory Centres: call 0800 0185023 for the location of your nearest clinic for young people. Your GP can often be a good source of help and advice too.


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 Disclaimer >>
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 Jurisdiction >> 		Last updated & checked:
31/03/2006
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