The combined pill is a type of hormonal contraception containing the hormones oestrogen and progestogen. It prevents pregnancy by stopping the ovaries releasing an egg each month. It’s over 99% effective if you use it correctly all the time. If not used correctly, for example missing a pill, it’s less effective. When you stop taking the pill, your fertility usually returns to previous levels after about a month. 

You may have some side effects when you first start taking the combined contraceptive pill. Bleeding between periods (breakthrough bleeding) or changes to your periods are common in the first few months. Taking the pill can cause high blood pressure in a small number of people. Some people report headaches, feeling sick or dizzy, and sore breasts.

For some people the pill improves period pain and other symptoms linked to periods, such as headaches. 

You can find out more about the combined pill here

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