What is the difference between the daily contraceptive pils?
Most contraceptive pills contain synthetic versions of hormones – mostly progestin with or without oestrogen. The two main types of pills on our website are the combined pill (containing both of the above hormones) and the mini-pill, containing solely progestin. When used exactly as directed, the pill is 99% effective and one of the most reliable forms of contraception. It has a very high degree of protection against pregnancy.
What happens if I vomited after taking the pill?
If you have severe diarrhoea or vomit in the first 3-4 hours after taking the pill, your chances of being protected are reduced. In such cases, it advised that you take an additional pill within 12 hours. If you are taking the inactive pill during these episodes, then the precautionary measure will not be necessary.
How effective is the pill?
When taken exactly as directed, the pill is 99% effective if taken properly and one of the most reliable forms of contraception. It has a very high degree of protection against pregnancy.
Isn't it difficult to remember to take the pill regularly?
It is important to adopt a routine when taking your pill to make it easier for yourself to remember. If you are still having difficult to adopt a routine, it might be helpful to set alarms or set reminders for when to take your pill.
I bled between two periods. Is this supposed to happen?
It is quite normal to experience bleeding in between periods during the first months of taking the pill, the bleeding usually stops within the next cycles. In most cases, there is nothing to worry about. It is important that you do not stop taking your pill if you bleed, as you are least likely to be protected and you could get pregnant. If the bleeding is persistent, please speak to our support team or your regular health care provider.
Do I need to take it at the same time every day?
Yes, it is important that you get yourself into a routine when taking the pill. It is up to you when to take the pill - morning or evening works well - but a consistent routine must be maintained.
Is it safe to have sex during the four or seven day break?
Yes! If you have taken your pills as directed. It is also important to note that if you have sex during this break, you should start your next pack on time and make sure they are taken correctly.
I haven't seen my period and I didn't miss a pill, am I pregnant?
If you are taking your pills as directed, it is very unlikely that you are pregnant. The contraceptive pill is known to be very effective. If you do not get a period, whilst taking the pills as directed, there is a possibility that the lining of the womb has not built up enough, therefore there is nothing to be expelled. However, if you do not experience any bleeding for more than two months in a row, contact the Morrisons Clinic support team (support@morrisonsclinic.com) or your regular healthcare provider.
The combined pill works by mimicking a pregnancy in the body, thereby preventing you from ovulating. It also thickens the mucus around the cervix, which in turn makes it difficult for sperm to get through. The progesterone only pill works in two ways, in some women it prevents ovulation, in others it can work by thickening the mucus at the entrance to the womb.
Will long term use of the pill affect my fertility?
There is currently no evidence to show that long term use of taking the pill can affect your chance of having a baby. There are no known negative effects of taking the pill long term. Hormonal contraception is not known to cause any form of infertility. It may take some time for your body to return to a state where you can become pregnant again, however, this is temporary. Fertility should return to its previous level, no matter how long you have been on the pill for.
What if I forget to take my pill?
If you are taking the combined contraceptive pill, what you need to do depends on factors such as how many pills have you missed, when you missed your pill and the type you are taking. For more info, please visit the missed Pill section of the NHS website .
Will I have side effects from taking the pill regularly?
All pills can cause temporary side effects such as headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, and mood swings. If you notice that these side effects do not subside after a few months, it may help to change to a different pill. The combined pill can increase your blood pressure. It is important that you go for routine checks with your healthcare provider. There has also been reports that the combined pill has been linked with some serious health conditions like blood clots and breast cancer. The progesterone only pill is known to cause acne and an increased or decreased sex drive.
Why is my blood pressure reading needed before I can place an order for the daily pill?
Some daily pills are known to increase blood pressure, as such the prescriber will need to know your recent blood pressure reading as this can be affected whilst on the pill. It is important to note that not everyone will react the same way with certain pills i.e. not everyone on the daily pill will experience any issues with their blood pressure.
Since I am on regular contraception, do I still need to use a condom?
Yes! It is advised that you use a condom to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections(STI). Contraception only helps to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. You are not protected from any STI whilst on regular contraception.