The combined pill is a form of contraception that uses the synthetic version of two hormones naturally produced by a woman’s body to prevent pregnancy. A popular method of contraception, the combined pill is taken daily for 21 consecutive days before a break of seven days. When taken properly, the combined pill offers effective protection against pregnancy.
All contraception is used as a barrier against unwanted pregnancy. Some focus on preventing the man’s sperm reaching the woman’s eggs (ova) and fertilising one. Others, like the combined pill, prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing an egg during the part of the menstruation process known as ovulation when she is at her most fertile.
The combined pill contains synthetic versions of oestrogen and progestogen, two hormones naturally released by the ovaries. Working in tandem, the hormones prevent ovulation and, like other types of contraception, make it harder for sperm to reach an egg and for a fertilised egg to implant itself.
One benefit of taking the combined pill is that you will stop having proper periods every month and have a lighter and shorter bleed known as a “withdrawal bleed” instead. The combined pill is often prescribed to help women who suffer from particularly heavy or painful periods while it is known to offer protection against cancer of the ovaries, colon and womb.
While the combined pill is 99% effective, you must take the pill exactly as prescribed to get the full protection so take it at the same time every day and on the correct days. The pill must stay in your system to offer protection so if you throw up soon after taking it or suffer from diarrhoea, consult your practice nurse or GP for advice on preventing pregnancy.
You will not be prescribed the combined pill if you are aged over 35 and smoke, and if you have certain medical conditions, it may be unsuitable for you. Known but low risk side effects include cervical cancer and blood clots, along with mood swings, headaches and tenderness in your breasts.
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