No, there are many different types of contraceptive pills available, and each of them is slightly different. The important thing is to follow the instructions that come with your pill package exactly. It’s important to take the pills as directed because missing pills or taking them not on time make them less effective. If you have any questions about how to take the pill, ask your healthcare provider for further advice.
Yes – as long as you have taken the previous pills as directed. Also, if you do have sex during the break, it’s important to start your next pack on time and make sure the pills are taken correctly.
Try to adopt a routine with your pill-taking to make it easier for yourself to remember.
If you are very forgetful, you may prefer to try an everyday pill. This type of pill is taken on each day of the month, instead of having the seven day break, so it’s easier to develop a set routine.
Hormones used in the pill are mostly a synthetic form of the natural hormones progestin and estrogen. Some contain only a progestin, e.g. progestin-only pill, others a combination of progestin and estrogen, e.g. the so-called combined pill.
The combined pill mimics a pregnancy to your body, although you are not pregnant, what prevents you from ovulation. It also thickens the mucus in the cervix, which makes it difficult for sperm to get through.
The progestin only pill works by thickening the mucus at the entrance to the womb. In some women it may also prevent ovulation.
The pill usually makes your periods more regular, shorter, lighter and less painful.
Yes, morning or evening, it’s up to you, but you do need to get into a regular routine of pill-taking.
If you forget to take your pill, with most types you’ll still be protected if you can take it up to 12 hours later – but it’s wise not to do this too often. Some progestin only pills can only be taken up to three hours late.
Some contraceptive pills can improve the condition of your skin and hair; others help with symptoms such as acne, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and irregular menstrual bleeding.