THE COMBINED ORAL CONTRACPETIVE PILL (COCP)
Popular, hormonal, daily pill.
TAKE IT A DAY AT A TIME
The combined oral contraceptive pill is a tablet containing hormones that you take once a day. It contains oestrogen and a progestogen, which prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. They also thicken the cervical mucus, which keeps sperm from reaching the egg. You should take the pill at the same time each day, whether or not you have sex. Ask your doctor or nurse whether the combined pill is a suitable method of contraception for you based on your medical history, and if it is, which is the best type for you.
The long-term use of the pill doesn't affect your fertility. But once you've stopped taking the pill it may take some time for your body's natural hormones to go back to their normal levels.
The combined pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
HOW IT MEASURES UP
Typical use means how well the method works in real life and perfect use means how well a method works under 'perfect' or ideal conditions for example when there is no user error at any time.
HORMONES
Yes. The hormones in the pill – either a progestin and estrogen, or only a progestin – are released throughout the entire body.
EASE OF USE
The pill must be taken at the same time every day, even if you don’t plan to have sex that day.
YOUR PERIOD
The pill makes menstrual bleeding even more regular, and may reduce heavy and painful periods.
NEED ADVICE? SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL.
Seek out an appointment with your doctor or nurse for further support that meets your needs.
