Key Information

The Basics: The combined pill is a popular choice, but understanding the basics is essential. It contains two hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) that prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg.

Effectiveness: When taken correctly every single day, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Bonus Benefits: For many, it also offers lighter, less painful, and more regular periods. It can also help manage acne, PMS, and symptoms of endometriosis or PCOS.

Is it Safe for Me?

The combined pill is not suitable for everyone. Before you start, a clinician must check your medical history to ensure it is safe.

Common reasons it may NOT be suitable include:

• Being aged 35 or over and smoking.
• Living with obesity.
• A history of blood clots (in you or close family).
• Heart or circulation problems (eg high blood pressure, stroke).
• Specific types of migraine (usually those with aura).
• A history of breast cancer.

Where Can I Get It?

All contraceptive services on the NHS are free and confidential (even if you are under 16).

• The Practice: You can contact us to arrange a prescription.
• Sexual Health Clinics: Dedicated clinics are available.
• Local Pharmacies (New Option): Many pharmacists can now provide the combined pill directly, without a GP prescription. They can perform the necessary health checks (blood pressure/weight) and issue the pill privately and quickly.

What Happens Next?

If you are considering the combined pill, you can visit a participating pharmacy or contact us to discuss your eligibility.

Discuss Your Contraception

Further Information

For more information on the combined pill, where to get it, who can take it, side effects, risks and more, please visit the NHS website.

• Learn more about the combined pill

Last reviewed: 28 April 2026
Next review due: 28 April 2029