The Contraceptive Pill
The pill is a contraceptive containing drugs which alter the chemical make-up of a woman's body and therefore it is only available on prescription from the doctor.
There are two basic types of pill: the combined pill which contains small amounts of the hormones oestrogen and progestogen, and the progestogen-only pill. Although both types are reliable, neither helps in preventing sexually transmitted diseases or HIV.
The combined pill - is taken for 21 days followed by a seven day break before starting the next pack. During the break some bleeding occurs. A version of this pill is available containing 28 pills, the last seven of which are inactive. This helps women who like the routine of taking the pill. Bleeding occurs when the inactive pills are being taken.
The combined pill has the advantage of reliability - there is almost no possibility of becoming pregnant as long as the pill is taken exactly according to the instructions. It can make periods lighter and less painful. However some women suffer side-effects from the pill and it is therefore not prescribed for women with certain health problems.
Progestogen-only pill - must be taken at the same time every day without a break between packs. It is not suitable for people who may be forgetful or unable to take the pill punctually (if it is taken more than three hours late it can lose its effectiveness). It can be useful for women who cannot take oestrogen (found in the combined pill).