Prescription Contraceptive Pill

What are contraceptive pills? 

Contraceptive pills are taken orally and contain hormones that can prevent unwanted pregnancies. There are several types of contraceptive pill and many women try a few before finding one that suits them.

There are two main types of pill available. You can get a Combined Pill which contains both an oestrogen and a progestogen hormone and a ‘Mini-Pill’, which is a progestogen-only pill.

Combined Pill

The Combined Pill contains both synthetic oestrogen and progesterone hormones. There are many different brands of Combined Pills available, including Microgynon, Rigevidon and Yasmin. 

The Combined Pill has a success rate of over 99% in preventing pregnancy and works by thickening the mucus in the cervix making it more difficult for the sperm to fertilise the egg. These hormones also make the body think it has already ovulated, which prevents eggs from being released from the ovaries. 

The Combined Pill is normally taken daily for 21 days with a 7-day break. It comes in packs containing strips of 21 or 28 tablets. 

• Once you finish the 21 tablet strip, you wait 7 days before starting the next strip or pack. 
• The 28 tablet packs (ED brands) contain 7 placebo pills in each strip, which have no effect on the body. You take the placebo pills during your 7-day break and their only purpose is to continue the habit of taking a pill every day (ED). You just start your next strip or pack when they run out. 

You may experience withdrawal bleeding during your 7-day pill-free period or while taking the placebo pills. If you suffer from heavy or painful withdrawal bleeding or other intolerable symptoms, such as headache or mood changes, during this 7 day period, your GP may recommend shortening or even removing your pill-free period altogether. This is perfectly safe as there are no medical benefits to having a withdrawal bleed or pill-free period, but you should discuss this with your GP first.

The Combined Pill comes in two different formulations. You have monophasic (every tablet contains the same hormone dosage throughout the pack) and also multiphasic (contains varying hormone doses throughout the pack) formulations. A monophasic pill is usually the recommended first-line option.

The Combined Pill can decrease the risk of ectopic pregnancy and cancer in the reproductive system. It has also been shown to reduce acne and lead to lighter, less painful and more predictable periods.

Combined contraceptive pills should not be used when breastfeeding or used beyond 50 years of age. You should speak to your GP for an alternative.

Mini-Pill

The Mini-Pill contains a progestogen hormone only, which is a synthetic version of the natural hormone progesterone. There are a number of different brands available, including Cerazette, Cerelle and generic Desogestrel tablets.

The Mini-Pill is 99% effective in protecting against pregnancy and works by thickening the mucus in the cervix making it more difficult for the sperm to fertilise the egg. The pill also makes the body think it has already ovulated, which prevents eggs from being released from the ovaries. 

The Mini-Pill comes in strips of 28 tablets and must be taken every single day at around the same time for maximum effect. All tablets contain an active ingredient, i.e. none of the tablets are placebo, and you don’t have a seven-day break between packs.

If the Mini-Pill is started during the first five days of a period, you will be protected against any potential pregnancy. If it is taken outside of this time, another contraceptive must be used for two days.

The Mini-Pill was first developed for breastfeeding women, as the oestrogen hormone found in Combined Pills affects the production of breast milk, but is also now commonly used among women who aren’t breastfeeding.

The Mini-Pill is recommended for women who are over 35 years old, regularly smoke and also for women with conditions that may be affected by the intake of oestrogen, such as high blood pressure, blood clots and obesity. 

The Mini-Pill is linked to a decreased risk of blood clots and breast cancer compared to the Combined Pill and can also reduce acne and lead to lighter, less painful and more predictable periods.

We offer a wide range of both Combination pill and progestogen-only pill (mini-pill) brands. Please read the information leaflet provided for full information on your particular product.

About Gedarel 20/150

Gedarel 20/150 is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and desogestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Gedarel 20/150, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Gedarel 20/150 will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/5972772f-6f0e-4ffc-9082-9b1cf8bca80e.pdf

About Mercilon

Mercilon is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and desogestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Mercilon, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Mercilon will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1360.pdf

About Femodette

Femodette is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Femodette, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Femodette will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3798.pdf

About Millinette 20/75

Millinette 20/75 is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Millinette 20/75, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Millinette 20/75 will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Sunya

Sunya is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Sunya, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Sunya will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Gedarel 30/150

Gedarel 30/150 is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and desogestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Gedarel 30/150, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Gedarel 30/150 will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/47276e97-dd9f-4fc2-955d-81046b1ffa38.pdf

About Marvelon

Marvelon is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and desogestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Marvelon, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Marvelon will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1359.pdf

About Eloine

Eloine is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and drospirenone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Eloine, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Eloine will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6967.pdf

About Yasmin

Yasmin is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and drospirenone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Yasmin, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Yasmin will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1607.pdf

About Lucette

Lucette is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and drospirenone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Lucette, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Lucette will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Femodene

Femodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Femodene, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Femodene will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet: 

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1123.pdf

About Katya

Katya is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Katya, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Katya will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Millinette 30/75

Millinette 30/75 is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Millinette 30/75, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Millinette 30/75 will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking.

About Levest

Levest is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Levest, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Levest will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9565.pdf

About Elevin

Elevin is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Elevin, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Elevin will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Microgynon 30

Microgynon 30 is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Microgynon 30, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Microgynon 30 will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1130.pdf

About Ovranette

Ovranette is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Ovranette, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Ovranette will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1524.pdf

About Rigevidon

Rigevidon is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Rigevidon, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Rigevidon will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Brevinor

Brevinor is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and norethisterone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Brevinor, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Brevinor will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1145.pdf

About Norimin

Norimin is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and norethisterone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Norimin, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Norimin will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1147.pdf

About Norinyl-1

Norinyl-1 is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: mestranol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and norethisterone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Norinyl-1, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Norinyl-1 will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1148.pdf

About Lizinna

Lizinna is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and norgestimate (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Lizinna, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Lizinna will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9573.pdf

About Clique

Clique is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and norgestimate (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Clique, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Clique will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Cimizt

Cimizt is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and desogestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Cimizt, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Cimizt will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9568/pil

About Femodene ED

Femodene ED is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and gestodene (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Femodene ED contains 28 tablets in the pack, seven of which are larger placebo tablets and have no effect. These are taken so you can continue the habit of taking a pill every day (ED) during your seven-day break and serves as a reminder to start your next pack when they run out.

Following the instructions on the pack, you take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by 7 days of taking the larger placebo tablets. It’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding while taking the placebo tablets. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Femodene ED, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Femodene ED will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1124.pdf

About Microgynon 30 ED

Microgynon 30 ED is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Microgynon 30 ED contains 28 tablets in the pack, seven of which are larger placebo tablets and have no effect. These are taken so you can continue the habit of taking a pill every day (ED) during your seven-day break and serves as a reminder to start your next pack when they run out.

Following the instructions on the pack, you take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by 7 days of taking the larger placebo tablets. It’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding while taking the placebo tablets. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Microgynon 30 ED, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Microgynon ED will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1131.pdf

About Zoely

Zoely is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: estradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and nomegestrol (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Zoely contains 28 tablets in the pack, four of which are yellow placebo tablets and have no effect. These are taken so you can continue the habit of taking a pill every day during your four-day break and serves as a reminder to start your next pack when they run out.

Following the instructions on the pack, you take one white tablet daily for 24 consecutive days, followed by 4 days of taking the yellow placebo tablets. It’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding while taking the placebo tablets. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Zoely, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Zoely will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3038.pdf

About Logynon

Logynon is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Logynon is a multiphasic preparation, meaning that the quantity of hormones in the pills varies over the 21 days. Tablets must be taken in the order directed on the blister pack.  

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Logynon, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Logynon will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1127.pdf

About TriRegol

TriRegol is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

TriRegol is a multiphasic preparation, meaning that the quantity of hormones in the pills varies over the 21 days. Tablets must be taken in the order directed on the blister pack.  

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of TriRegol, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

TriRegol will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

About Synphase

Synphase is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and norethisterone (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Synphase is a multiphasic preparation, meaning that the quantity of hormones in the pills varies over the 21 days. Tablets must be taken in the order directed on the blister pack.  

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Synphase, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Synphase will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1579.pdf

About Logynon ED

Logynon ED is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Logynon ED is a multiphasic preparation, meaning that the quantity of hormones in the pills varies over the 21 days. Tablets must be taken in the order directed on the blister pack. The tablet colour changes throughout the pack, representing the different quantities of hormones in each tablet. 

Logynon ED contains 28 tablets in the pack, seven of which are larger placebo tablets and have no effect. These are taken so you can continue the habit of taking a pill every day (ED) during your seven-day break and serves as a reminder to start your next pack when they run out. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break without any tablets. During this break, it’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding 2-3 days after your last tablet. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets.

To get the best protection out of Logynon ED, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. If it is taken on the first day of your period, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Logynon ED will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1128.pdf

About Qlaira

Qlaira is a combined oral contraceptive pill that has two active ingredients: estradiol (a synthetic version of oestrogen) and dienogest (a synthetic version of progesterone). When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Qlaira is a multiphasic preparation, meaning that the quantity of hormones in the pills varies over the 28 days. Tablets must be taken in the order directed on the blister pack. 

The tablet colour changes throughout the pack, representing the different quantities of hormones in each tablet. Two are white placebo tablets and have no effect. These are taken so you can continue the habit of taking a pill every day during your two-day break and serves as a reminder to start your next pack when they run out. 

Following the instructions on the pack, take one tablet daily. It’s normal to experience some withdrawal bleeding towards the end of each pack. The bleeding may or may not have stopped before you start your next pack of tablets. 

To get the best protection out of Qlaira, it should be taken at around the same time every day with some water. It should be started on the first day of your period. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first 9 days.

Qlaira will usually lead to lighter, less sore and more predictable periods, especially after the first three months of taking. 

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6536.pdf

About Cerazette

Cerazette is a progestogen-only pill, also called a Mini-Pill. It contains the synthetic version of progesterone, desogestrel. When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

To get the best protection out of Cerazette, one tablet should be taken around the same time every day with some water. The first tablet should be taken on the first day of your period. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Unlike combination pills, you should take Cerazette continuously, with no 7-day break or placebo tablets between packs. Just start the next pack or strip the day after you finish the last one.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1698.pdf

About Cerelle

Cerelle is a progestogen-only pill, also called a Mini-Pill. It contains the synthetic version of progesterone, desogestrel. When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

To get the best protection out of Cerelle, one tablet should be taken around the same time every day with some water. The first tablet should be taken on the first day of your period. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Unlike combination pills, you should take Cerelle continuously, with no 7-day break or placebo tablets between packs. Just start the next pack or strip the day after you finish the last one.

About Noriday

Noriday is a progestogen-only pill, also called a Mini-Pill. It contains the synthetic version of progesterone, norethisterone. When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

To get the best protection out of Noriday, one tablet should be taken around the same time every day with some water. The first tablet should be taken on the first day of your period. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Unlike combination pills, you should take Noriday continuously, with no 7-day break or placebo tablets between packs. Just start the next pack or strip the day after you finish the last one.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1146.pdf

About Zelleta

Zelleta is a progestogen-only pill, also called a Mini-Pill. It contains the synthetic version of progesterone, desogestrel. When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

To get the best protection out of Zeletta, one tablet should be taken around the same time every day with some water. The first tablet should be taken on the first day of your period. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Unlike combination pills, you should take Zeletta continuously, with no 7-day break or placebo tablets between packs. Just start the next pack or strip the day after you finish the last one.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9572.pdf

About Desogestrel

Desogestrel is a synthetic version of progesterone. When taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

To get the best protection out of Desogestrel, one tablet should be taken around the same time every day with some water. The first tablet should be taken on the first day of your period. If taken any later, another form of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the first week.

Unlike combination pills, you should take Desogestrel continuously, with no 7-day break or placebo tablets between packs. Just start the next pack or strip the day after you finish the last one.

Side effects

Not every woman's body will react in the same way to a contraceptive pill. Different contraceptive pills can also cause varying side effects so it is important to find the right contraceptive pill suited to your body. After three months, your body will adapt to the pill and the side effects can lessen.

Potential side effects can include:

• Headaches
• Mood swings and depression
• Cystitis
• Diarrhoea 
• Acne
• Loss of hair
• Loss of libido
• Irregular bleeding
• Fluctuations in body weight
• Nausea

There are also some rare side effects that only impact a small number of women. Most of these side effects are harmless, however they may indicate a more serious problem. If you experience any of the following symptoms you should contact your doctor immediately:

• Jaundice
• Chest pains
• Severe migraine
• Numbness
• Impaired sight
• Swelling in leg, face, tongue or throat
• Lumps in breast
• Unusual discharge or bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain

If a contraceptive pill contains oestrogen, studies have found that the pills can cause a small increase in risk of breast cancer, cervical cancer and thrombosis, however, they can help protect against other types of cancer such as ovarian and bowel cancer.

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet provided with your particular product.

When to take the pill?

Contraceptive pills are to be ingested orally every day at the same time. The combined pill is to be taken for 21 days and then a 7-day break. The mini-pill is to be taken every single day.

What if I forget to take the pill?

If you forget a pill, take it as soon as you remember and carry on with the next pill at your usual time. If the pill was more than 12 hours overdue you are not protected. Continue normal pill-taking but you must also use another method, such as the condom, for the next 2 days.

If one or more tablets are missed or taken more than 12 hours late and unprotected intercourse has occurred before 2 further tablets have been correctly taken you should seek Emergency Contraception (the Morning After Pill) from your local pharmacy or sexual health clinic.

What if I experience diarrhoea or vomiting after taking the pill?

Vomiting or severe diarrhoea can interfere with the absorption of oral contraceptives. If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking the pill, another pill should be taken as soon as possible. 

If a replacement pill is not taken within 12 hours of your normal time, or in cases of persistent vomiting or severe diarrhoea, additional precautions, such as condoms, should be used during illness and for 2 days after recovery.

What contraception should I use after giving birth?

Oral progestogen-only contraceptives can be started up to and including day 21 postpartum without the need for additional contraceptive precautions. If started more than 21 days postpartum, additional contraceptive precautions are required for 2 days.

Combined contraceptive pills should not be used while breastfeeding.

Can I take the pill when travelling?

Women using any form of hormonal contraceptives, including patches or vaginal rings, are at an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis during travel involving long periods of immobility (over 3 hours). The risk can be reduced by appropriate exercise during the journey and by wearing compression flight socks.

What are alternative forms of contraception?

There are lots of other ways to prevent unwanted pregnancies such as:

• Condoms/internal condoms
• Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Sterilisation