The Contraceptive Pill

The contraceptive pill – or just ‘the pill’ – is one of the most commonly used and most effective types of contraception.

They contain hormones which are very similar to those your body naturally uses – progestogen and oestrogen – which work to stop you getting pregnant.

There are two different types of contraceptive pill you can take depending on your needs; these are the combined pill and the progestogen only pill.

The Contraceptive Pill

The contraceptive pill – or just ‘the pill’ – is one of the most commonly used and most effective types of contraception.

They contain hormones which are very similar to those your body naturally uses – progestogen and oestrogen – which work to stop you getting pregnant.

There are two different types of contraceptive pill you can take depending on your needs; these are the combined pill and the progestogen only pill.

The Combined Pill

The combined pill, often called ‘the pill’, is a type of contraception which uses fake hormones similar to the ones you naturally produce. The pill works in three ways to prevent pregnancy:

It prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg
It thickens the mucus in the neck of the womb – making it harder for sperm to reach the egg
It makes the uterus (or womb) lining thinner so a fertilised egg can’t implant

The most common way to take the pill is to take 1 every day for 21 days, then have a break for 7 days during which you will bleed like a normal period.

The pill is safe for most women to take but there are some exceptions. For example, you shouldn’t take the pill if you’re a smoker, very overweight or on certain types of medication.

Some people may experience side effects when they first start taking the pill. These might include headaches, nausea, tender breasts and mood swings. Normally, these side effects will go away after a few weeks.

One of the biggest myths about the pill is that it will make you gain weight but there’s no evidence to support this claim.

So, if you’re thinking about taking the pill, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if the pill is right for you and answer any questions you have.

The Progestogen Only Pill

The progesterone-only pill (sometimes called the ‘mini pill’) is a type of birth control that’s usually prescribed to women who are older than 35 and smoke, have high blood pressure or have a history of blood clots or migraines – but can be prescribed to anyone if their circumstances are right.

Unlike the combined pill, the progesterone-only pill doesn’t contain oestrogen. Instead, it works by thickening the mucus in the neck of the womb to make it harder for sperm to enter.

The progesterone-only pill is 99% effective when used correctly but you have to take it every day without a break. This means you won’t have a period like you do with the combined pill.

Side effects from the progesterone-only pill are rare and usually go away after a few weeks. They can include headaches, nausea and breast tenderness.

If you’re thinking about taking the progesterone-only pill, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if it’s right for you and answer any questions you have.