The combined pill (also known as “the pill”) is a type of oral contraception that contains hormones (Estrogen and Progestin) to prevent pregnancy. The pill works by stopping ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and thickening the cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg.
To use the combined pill, you take one pill every day at the same time. It is important to take the pill at the same time every day to ensure maximum effectiveness. If a pill is missed, or taken more than 3 hours later than usual, the effectiveness of the pill can be reduced and it may be necessary to use additional contraception, such as a condom, to prevent pregnancy.
Common side effects of the combined pill include:
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Spotting between periods
- Mood changes
It is important to talk to a healthcare professional about the risks and benefits of the combined pill, and to discuss any health conditions or medications that may affect its use. Regular use of the combined pill can provide highly effective protection against pregnancy, but does not protect against STIs.
Page last reviewed: 6 August 2024