In this sprint you will learn about contraceptive pills.
Contraceptive pills are commonly used.
There are 2 basic types:
- Combined – contain 2 hormones; oestrogen and progestogen
- Progestogen only
Both types of pills are effective if used correctly but many women find it hard to remember to take the pill every day and the effectiveness is reduced with poor compliance.
- Women using the combined pill are more likely to have predictable bleeding patterns. The bleeding pattern when using any progestogen only method is unpredictable which may be a concern for many.
- Combined hormonal contraception is available in different preparations, most women will take a pill but for some they would prefer to use a patch, which is applied weekly, or a vaginal ring, changed every 4 weeks.
- However there are many women who are unable to use the combined hormonal products because of their personal risks ie increased weight, age, smoking, or health conditions including high blood pressure, migraine.
- The progestogen only pills can be used by the majority of women whatever social factors or health conditions they have.
