What is the combined pill and how does it work?
The combined pill contains two hormones: oestrogen and progestogen. The pill is taken orally, following the specific instructions supplied with it. It stops a woman releasing an egg each month (ovulation).
At first you will usually be given three months' supply to see how the pill suits you. After that you will need to go back to the nurse or doctor regularly to get more supplies and have your blood pressure checked. If used according to the instructions, the combined pill is 99% effective.
What are the advantages?
- Often reduces bleeding, period pain and pre-menstrual tension
- Protects against cancer of the ovary and womb and some pelvic infections
- Suitable for healthy, non-smokers up to the menopause (usually when a woman stops having her periods – aged 45 plus)
What are the disadvantages?
- May not be suitable for some women, a full medical history should be taken
- Not suitable for smokers over 35 or women who are breast feeding
- May cause temporary minor side-effects
- If you are sick, or have severe diarrhoea within three hours of taking the pill, you will need to use an extra contraceptive method (e.g. condoms) whilst you are ill, and for seven days afterwards
- It does not protect you against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)