What should you know about the Levest combined pill?

The two hormones mainly prevent the release of an egg. They also thicken cervical mucus and alter the womb lining, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg and for a pregnancy to establish. Some people notice nausea, breast tenderness, headaches or mood changes, particularly after starting. Levest can also reduce painful or irregular bleeding for some people, but it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Take one tablet at the same time each day, following the pack instructions. If you miss tablets, vomit soon after taking one, or have severe diarrhoea, use the missed-pill guidance or ask a pharmacist because contraceptive protection can change. Tell your prescriber about migraine with aura, smoking, high blood pressure, previous blood clots, liver disease, medicines and supplements. Different options may be safer for some people, including those with specific risk factors.

Get urgent help for sudden chest pain, breathlessness, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling or pain, sudden weakness, trouble speaking, or a severe unusual headache or vision change. Arrange a review for persistent troublesome symptoms, very high blood pressure, or bleeding that remains heavy or unexpected. A clinician can assess whether the combined pill is appropriate and discuss alternatives.

Ask whether your medical history affects combined-pill safety, what to do after a missed tablet, how other medicines interact with Levest, and which warning symptoms require urgent care.