Contraception (birth control)

The low-dose pill contains both progesterone and oestrogen, but a smaller amount of oestrogen than in a regular combined pill. This means that some side effects are lessened.

Take at the same time daily to ensure you're protected. Most low-dose pills are taken for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break. Some women prefer to miss or shorten the break if they experience heavy or painful bleeding, headaches, or mood swings on pill-free days. For some women it may be a safer contraceptive option compared to the regular combined pill.

Side effects vary by pill and person, however low-dose pills tend to cause more irregular bleeding than the regular pill. Some women experience a rise in blood pressure when taking oestrogen. To ensure it's safe to take, you must collect it in-store, where your height, weight and blood pressure will be checked for free in private.

The contraceptive patch (Evra) is worn on the skin, while the contraceptive ring (NuvaRing) is inserted by you inside the vagina.  These are unaffected by stomach upsets, and with no daily pill to remember some women find it more reliable.

Common use is to have these devices stay in place for 3 weeks, then you'll have a break of a week. They both contain synthetic progestogen and oestrogen that are absorbed into the body.

Some women prefer the convenience of not taking a tablet everyday. However, there is a risk that the patch may become unstuck, or that the ring is dislodged. Replacing the device immediately should keep you protected, however if this goes unnoticed you will not be protected against pregnancy.