THE COMBINED

PILL

The combined pill contains artificial versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone which are both produced naturally in the ovaries.

Throwing up and severe diarrhoea in the first 3-4 hours after taking the pill can decrease its reliability. In both cases, take an additional pill within 12 hours. This precaution is not necessary if you are taking one of your inactive “dummy” pills.

Large studies have investigated this and there is no evidence to suggest the pill has any negative long term effect on a woman’s ability to have a baby, even if it is taken without a break for a long period of time.