The combined contraceptive pill is one of the most common contraceptive (birth control) choices in the UK.  If the pills are taken properly, following the manufacturer’s instructions, the combined pill is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

The combined pill is made up of two hormones called progestogen and oestrogen. It can be taken either for 21 days in a row, followed by a seven-day break, or for 28 days (the everyday pill).

In some 21-day brands, each pill contains an equal dose of hormones.  In others, called phasic pills, the pills contain varying amounts of oestrogen and progestogen and must be taken in the right order.  Packets for this type of pill are often colour-coded to show the order the pills should be taken in.

The everyday pill is taken each day of the 28-day menstrual cycle with no break in between packets.  The first pill of a new pack must be taken the day after the last pill in the old pack.  Everyday pills must be taken in the right order as the packet contains seven inactive pills

Why is it used for

The combined pill is a contraceptive method used to prevent pregnancy.  It will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases but there is evidence to suggest that it gives some protection against other diseases and conditions, such as cancer of the uterus (womb) and ovaries.

Who can use it?

Not every woman can use the combined pill and there are a number of reasons why it may not be a suitable method of contraception.  The combined pill should not be taken if:

• the woman is pregnant, or thinks she might be pregnant
• the woman is over 35 years old and a smoker.

The combined pill is also not a suitable method of contraception if the woman has ever had:

• venous or arterial thrombosis (blood clots)
• raised blood pressure, heart abnormalities or circulatory disease
• liver or gall bladder disease
• diabetes
• unexplained vaginal bleeding.