Combined Pill
A very popular form of contraception which is taken every day in the form of a pill that contains a hormonal treatment.
It contains two hormones (estrogen and progestogen) that
prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg.
There's also a Progestogen-only pill (also known as the mini pill or POP).
Not everyone can use the combined pill. Your GP or clinician will be able to advise you according to your medical records. Some conditions may mean you should not use the pill, such as certain medications, being overweight, breastfeeding, some illness such as certain types of migraine, amongst others.
- It’s often used as treatment for painful, irregular and heavy periods.
- It reduces the risk of cancer of the ovary, uterus and colon.
- Also in some cases it improves acne problems and may reduce menopausal symptoms in some women.
- It may reduce the risk of fibrosis, ovarian cysts and non-cancerous breast disease.
- Unlike the birth control Patch, the pill does not have any influence on metabolism.
- It may temporary have side effects at first such as headaches, nausea, breast tenderness and mood changes.
- It doesn’t protect against Sexually Transmitted Infection (STD’s) so the use of condoms is always recommended simultaneously.
- You might need emergency contraception if you have unprotected sex and you have missed two or more combined pills.
Most types of contraception are available for free in the UK
through the NHS. Talk to your GP or practice nurse for more information. When
you first start the combined pill you will be given a supply to see
if it suits you, after that it can be extended to a year’s supply.
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