Combined Pill
What is it?
Commonly known as ‘The Pill’. These are small tablets containing oestrogen and progestogen which are similar to the natural hormones women produce in their ovaries. There are three main types of combined pills:
- Monophasic 21 day pills
- Phasic 21 day pills
- Every Day (ED) pills
How it works
The combined pill stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation).
It also thickens the mucus around the cervix making it difficult for sperm to get into the uterus.
Advantages
- Does not interrupt sex
- Reduces the risk of cancer of the colon, ovary and uterus
- Bleeding may be lighter and period pain or Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)/Pre-Menstrual Tension (PMT) is less likely
- Reduces acne in some women
Disadvantages
In a small number of women it can cause serious side effects. Possible temporary side effects are:
- Nausea (feeling sick)
- Mood changes
- Breast tenderness
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- May increase your blood pressure
- Can cause weight gain and/or skin problems
- Unexpected bleeding can occur on pill taking days & spotting is common in the first few months of pill use
If these symptoms persist you may want to consider a different brand of pill that will suit you better.
How effective is it?
If taken correctly, this pill is 99% effective.
What makes it less effective?
- Not taking it correctly
- Taking it more than 12 hours late
- Vomiting less than 3 hours after taking it
- Severe diarrhoea
- Some prescription and complementary medicines
Progestogen only pill (POP or Mini pill)
What is it?
Small tablets, containing the hormone progestogen. This is similar to the natural hormone that women produce in their ovaries, progesterone. There are different types of POP.
How it works
It thickens the mucus around the cervix making it difficult for sperm to get into the uterus. It makes the lining of the uterus thinner, so it is less likely to accept a fertilised egg. Sometimes, it stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation); this is the main action of the POP called Cerazette.
Advantages
- Does not interrupt sex
- Can be taken by some women who cannot take the hormone oestrogen, which is found in the combined pill
- Can be used when breastfeeding
- Women over the age of 35 and who smoke can use it
- It can help with painful periods and premenstrual symptoms
Disadvantages
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Periods may be irregular
How effective is it?
This pill is 99% effective if it is taken correctly.
What makes it less effective?
- Not taking it correctly
- Taking it more than 3 hours late
- Vomiting less than 3 hours after taking it
- Severe diarrhoea
- Some prescription and complementary medicines
