Question 1

How does the pill work

Accepted Answer

There are two main types of contraceptive pill: the combined pill and the mini pill.The combined pill works by stopping ovulation. It also makes it difficult for sperm to reach an egg, or for an egg to implant in the lining of the womb if you do ovulate.With most combined pills (but not all), you take one pill every day for 21 days. Then you have a pill-free week. During your pill-free week, you should have a withdrawal bleed or 'period'. Other pills, including the mini-pill, you take continuously without a break. The mini-pill works by stopping ovulation or by thickening the mucus in the cervix. This stops the sperm reaching the egg if ovulation happens.

Question 2

How does the patch work?

Accepted Answer

The patch (Evra Patch) should be placed on a clear section of skin. It stays on for 21 days and then you take it off for a patch-free week. You should have a withdrawal bleed or ‘period’ during this week.The patch releases hormones (progesterone and oestrogen) through your skin. These hormones work like the combined pill. They stop ovulation and make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg.

Question 3

How does the ring work?

Accepted Answer

The ring (Nuvaring) is inserted into the vagina. It stays in place for 21 days. Then you take it out for a seven-day break. You should have a withdrawal bleed or ‘period’ during this week. The ring releases hormones (progesterone and oestrogen) into your body via the vagina. These hormones work like the combined pill. They stop ovulation and make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg.

Question 4

What are the alternatives to the contraceptive pill?

Accepted Answer

If you would rather not have to take a pill every day, or use a patch or ring, a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARCs) may be right for you. Once it is in place, you don't have to do anything for months or years.Examples of LARCs include:The intrauterine device (IUD),which can last up to 10 yearsThe intrauterine system (IUS), another type of coil, which can last up to 5 yearsThe implant (or bar), which lasts 3 yearsThe Depo-Provera injection, which lasts 3 monthsLARCs have to be fitted by a healthcare professional.

Question 5

Can the doctor recommend a different pill?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please take the following steps:1. Select the contraception you are currently taking and start the consultation. This is a short questionnaire.2. When asked if you have any side effects, say "Yes". Tell the doctor why you want to change contraception.3. You will be asked if you want to change contraception. Select “Yes”.3. Complete the short questionnaire. Your doctor will reply to you with advice on contraception options that may be right for you.4. Make sure you check your Patient Record to see the doctor's message.Remember, before starting a consultation for the combined pill, you will need to ask a pharmacist to check your blood pressure.

Question 6

I have never taken the pill before can I use your service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In your questionnaire, you just need to let the doctor know that you haven’t taken the pill before.Please select the contraception you think you would like to order. The doctor will tell you if this isn't right for you, and suggest another.The questionnaire will ask you if you are currently taking it. Select “No I have never taken this contraceptive”.You will then be asked if you want further advice. Select "Yes". The doctor will get back to you with further contraceptive advice once you have finished the questionnaire.Remember, if you are ordering the combined pill you will need to ask a pharmacist to check your blood pressure before starting the consultation.

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