The Pill
Combined pill
What is the combined pill?
The combined pill is a tablet that contains the hormones oestrogen and progestogen (synthetic versions of the hormones that are naturally released from the ovaries).
How to take it
There are different pills available which you take in slightly different ways. It is important that you understand which way you have to take your pill when it is prescribed for you. Often women will have regular periods when you take this pill.
How it works
The hormones prevent you from ovulating (releasing an egg). They also make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg or for an egg to implant itself in the lining of the womb.
Progestogen-only pill
What is the progestogen- only pill?
The progestogen-only pill is sometimes called the mini-pill or POP. It contains the hormone progestogen but does not contain oestrogen.
How to take it
The progestogen-only pill has to be taken every day within a specific time period, the nurse or doctor will advise you whether you need to remember to take it in a three hour or twelve hour window.
How it works
The POP thickens the mucus in the cervix which stops sperm getting to an egg. It also thins the lining of the womb so that an egg cannot implant itself there. In some women it stops ovulation.