Combined pill

Often just called “the pill”, the combined pill is a type of female contraception that prevents pregnancy. It gets its name because it contains a combination of two hormones; progestogen and oestrogen.

It protects against pregnancy but not sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To protect against STIs you will also need to use a barrier method of contraception such as condoms.

You can take the pill every day for three weeks then stop for a week where you have a “withdrawal bleed” which is usually like a light period. You are still protected against pregnancy in this week as long as you restart the next pack on time. You can also take the the pill without a break, if you do not wish to see a bleed each month.

• It is typically 91% effective if taken correctly
• There are different types and many different brands
• It can help if your periods are heavy or painful
• It can help premenstrual symptoms (PMS)
• It can help with acne
• There are things that can affect how effective it is (such as vomiting, diarrhoea and other medications)
• Occasionally some people experience hormonal side effects with hormonal contraception, for most people these will settle after three months of use but seek advice if you are concerned

You can get the contraceptive pill from Umbrella clinics and pharmacies, and GPs can prescribe the pill for you. For advice about missed pills, please see the contraception FAQs.