Factsheet
The Pill
Date 05 February 2009
BASIC FACTS |
WHAT IS THE PILL?
The combined Pill contains two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen. It is usually just called 'the Pill'. There are many types of combined Pills but they all work the same way to prevent pregnancy.
HOW DOES THE PILL WORK?
The Pill stops a woman's ovaries from releasing an ovum (egg) each month, so a pregnancy cannot begin.
HOW WELL DOES IT WORK?
It works very well. It is more than 99% effective when used perfectly.
WHO CAN USE THE PILL?
Most women can use the Pill. Because it is so effective it is good for women who are very certain that they do not want to be pregnant until they are ready.
WHO SHOULD NOT USE THE PILL?
Women should not use the Pill if they have had a blood clot in their leg, a stroke or heart attack, liver problems, severe headaches, or some other medical conditions. It is very important to talk with your doctor to make sure it is safe for you to use the Pill. Some other medications can stop the Pill from working properly and the doctor will tell you about these and other things you need to know before you decide to use it.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
Most women feel well while using the Pill, but it is common to have some side effects at first. You may have irregular bleeding in between periods, sore breasts and nausea (feeling sick). This usually settles down after a couple of months but sometimes your doctor may change the type of Pill you are using. Serious health problems caused by the Pill are rare, but ask your doctor to tell you about them.
HOW DO YOU TAKE THE PILL?
The Pill comes in 21 day or 28 day packs. With the 21 day pack you take a Pill every day for 21 days and then have a break of seven days before starting the next pack. With the 28 day packs depending on the type of Pill, there are either seven pills or four pills that have no hormones (they are sugar pills). So although you keep taking a pill every day your body has a break from the hormones. You will have a period during the days without hormone pills.
WHAT IF YOU MISS A PILL?
If you are less than 24 hours late taking a Pill, take it as soon as you remember, and then take the next pill at the usual time. You will still be protected against pregnancy. The doctor will tell you what to do if you are more than 24 hours late.
HOW CAN YOU GET THE PILL?
You need to go to a doctor or Family Planning clinic to get a script for the Pill. The doctor will ask you questions about your health and will tell you how to take the Pill. You can then buy your pills from a pharmacy or a Family Planning clinic. You should have a check up every 12 months, and a Pap test every two years.
For further information
- Contact the Healthline on 1300 658 886.
