The pill contains a combination of oestrogen and progesterone hormones. It is taken daily by the woman for 21 days, usually followed by a break (or taking sugar pills) for 7 days. The break triggers a withdrawal bleed or pretend period. The pill works by stopping ovulation and is more than 96 to 99% effective if taken correctly. It may not work if you have diarrhoea and/or vomiting or if taking certain medications (such as antibiotics). Check with your doctor or family planning service. You need to use alternative contraception (such as condoms) while taking the medications, and for seven days after stopping, while continuing to take the pill.
Side effects. Each woman reacts differently to different types of pills but side effects may include nausea, sore breasts, spotting in between periods, feeling bloated, weight gain, feeling irritable or depressed and/or a loss of libido. Many side effects can subside after three months of use. Otherwise the type of pill may need to be changed.
The pill can cause patchy, brown discolouration on the face (chloasma), which may take months to fade after stopping. Wear a hat and use factor 30 + sunscreen. Rare, but severe, side effects are generally caused by an increase in blood clotting (chest pain, thrombosis, blurred vision, severe headache). Seek medical attention immediately.
Breastfeeding. Not recommended until the baby is fully weaned.
Advantages of the pill are: