Types of combined pill

Every combined pill uses an oestrogen with a progestogen to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus. Formulations may use ethinylestradiol or another oestrogen, alongside a progestogen such as levonorgestrel. The hormone combination and strength can influence spotting, breast tenderness, nausea, mood changes, and how predictable withdrawal bleeding feels.

Some packs use active tablets followed by a break or inactive tablets; others shorten or avoid the break. Combined pills may also be prescribed to help painful periods, irregular periods, or symptoms linked with Endometriosis, Ovarian Cysts, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, but they do not suit everyone.

A clinician will check your blood pressure, migraine history, smoking status, medicines, and personal or family history of blood clots before recommending a formulation. Take tablets in the pack order and ask what to do after a missed tablet, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Some medicines and herbal products can reduce contraceptive protection.

Seek emergency help for sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling or pain, or sudden weakness, speech trouble, or vision loss. Contact a clinician about persistent troublesome bleeding, severe headache, or a new migraine pattern.

Ask which hormone combination fits your history, whether a continuous schedule is appropriate, how to manage missed tablets, and which symptoms should prompt urgent review.