Combined Pill

Last Updated on Wednesday, 07 April 2010 13:01

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Combined Pill

The Pill is prescribed to you, so you need to visit your doctor or Family Planning Association to find out which type will be most suited to you. The combined pill is made of two hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. It stops ovaries from releasing an egg each month.

What are the chances of getting pregnant when using the combined pill?

1-3%, depending on how carefully you follow the instructions. For example, if you do not take the pill consistently every day it will not work.

When taking the pill there is a very small chance of developing blood clots, heart attacks and stroke. This is more likely in women over 35 who smoke, are obese, or have a family history of the above conditions. There is also a very slight increased risk of cervical cancer.

Advantages

• Simple and easy to take.
• Doesn’t interfere with sexual intercourse.
• Usually makes your periods regular, shorter, lighter and less painful.
• Less chance of cancer of the uterus and ovaries.
• Can be taken up to menopause if you are healthy and don’t smoke.

Disadvantages

• Must be prescribed by a doctor.
• Should not be used by women over 35 who smoke.
• Must remember to take it daily!!
• May have side effects, eg. irregular bleeding, nausea, moodiness, skin changes, weight gain.