Combined pill - meaning and definition
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Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
The combined pill is a daily tablet containing an estrogen and a progestogen that prevents pregnancy mainly by stopping ovulation.
At a glance
- The combined pill contains an estrogen and a progestogen and mainly works by stopping ovulation.
- Taken correctly it is more than 99% effective; with typical use it is about 91% effective.
- It is traditionally taken for 21 days followed by a seven-day break, though other patterns are used.
- It can make periods lighter and more regular.
- It is not suitable for everyone, for example some people with certain migraines or a history of blood clots.
In detail
The combined oral contraceptive is one of the most widely used methods in the world. Taken correctly it is more than 99% effective, but with typical use, where pills are sometimes missed or taken late, it is closer to 91% effective.
Traditionally it is taken for 21 days followed by a seven-day break, although many clinicians now support shorter breaks or taking it continuously. It can make periods lighter and more regular and may help with acne or premenstrual symptoms.
It is not suitable for everyone. People with certain conditions, such as some types of migraine, a history of blood clots, or who smoke and are over 35, may be advised to choose another method.
In a sentence
- I've been on the combined pill for years and my periods are much more predictable.
- The pharmacist asked about my blood pressure before renewing my combined pill prescription.
Not to be confused with
- Progestogen-only pill
The progestogen-only pill contains no estrogen and has different rules for missed pills.
- Emergency contraceptive pill
The emergency pill is taken once after unprotected sex, not daily.
Common questions
Do I need to take a break from the combined pill?
The traditional seven-day break is not medically necessary, and many clinicians now support shorter breaks or taking it continuously. Which pattern suits a particular brand is a good question for a clinician or pharmacist.
Who should not take the combined pill?
People with certain conditions, such as some types of migraine, a history of blood clots, or who smoke and are over 35, may be advised to choose another method. A clinician checks medical suitability before prescribing.