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- MENSTRUAL HEALTH
- CONTRACEPTION
- MENOPAUSE FAQSTALK MENOPAUSE
THE COMBINED
PILL
- WHAT HORMONES ARE IN THE COMBINED PILL?expand_less
The combined pill contains artificial versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone which are both produced naturally in the ovaries.
- I WAS SICK AND THREW UP AFTER TAKING A PILL. WILL THE PILL STILL WORK?expand_more
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.
- WILL LONG-TERM PILL USE AFFECT TRYING FOR A BABY?expand_more
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.
PREPARING FOR YOUR GP APPOINTMENT
TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR
Get the information you need for an informed discussion with your doctor.
PP-UN-WHC-GB-0298 July 2025