If you’re considering taking the birth control pill, it may feel confusing to figure out which pill is right for you. In this post, we’ll take a look at the two main types of contraceptive pills, why they may not be suitable for everyone, and how to find the right pill for you.
What are the main pill types?
The combined contraceptive pill
The combined oral contraceptive pill is made up of two artificial female hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. When you take the combined pill, these hormones rise in your body. Typically, you take the pill for three weeks followed by a seven-day break, during which you might experience a withdrawal bleed.
It’s possible to continue taking the pill during the suggested seven-day break to stop or reduce symptoms such as heavy or painful periods, headaches, and mood swings.
The combined pill works by [1]:
- Stopping ovulation (the release of an egg from your ovaries)
- Thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to enter the womb
- Thinning the womb lining, preventing implantation of a fertilized egg
The combined contraceptive pill is highly effective at preventing pregnancy [2]:
- Over 99% effective when taken correctly at the same time every day.
- Over 91% effective when you occasionally forget to take one pill.
Learn more about the side effects of contraceptive pills.
The mini pill
The mini pill, also called "the progesterone only pill" or "POP", contains only progesterone and doesn’t have oestrogen. In Ireland, only two types of mini pills (Noriday and Cerazette) are available. You need to take the mini pill at the same time every day, and there’s no seven-day break.
The mini pill works by [3]:
- Thickening cervical mucus to block sperm
- Some types, like Cerazette mini pill, also prevent ovulation.
The mini pill is also highly effective [4]:
- Over 99% effective when used correctly.
- Over 91% effective when not taken consistently at the same time every day.
Which contraceptive pill is right for me?
Why are there different pills? From a practical and medical point of view, not all contraceptive pills are suitable for all women due to factors such as age, health conditions, and lifestyle choices.
For instance, the combined pill may not be suitable if [5]:
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You are older than 35 and smoke
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Have just had a baby and are breastfeeding
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Have high blood pressure
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Have a history of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis
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Have had breast cancer
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If you take St. John’s wort (herbal supplement)
The mini pill (such as the Cerazette mini pill) may not be suitable if [5]:
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You have breast cancer
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You have a liver disease
- You experience unexplained uterine bleeding
Offering various brands of both - the combined pill and mini pill - provides you with a choice. So if you’re not able to take one type or brand of the pill your doctor may be able to suggest an alternative contraceptive pill for you.
Do you need to change your pill?
If you’ve been on a birth control pill for a few months and are still experiencing side effects, like headaches, nausea, or mood swings, it might be time to discuss alternative options with your doctor. They may suggest switching between different types of contraceptive pills to find what works best for you.
Common side effects include [6]:
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Headaches
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Feeling or being sick
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Sore breasts
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Irregular bleeding or bleeding in between your periods
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Changes to your mood
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Bloating
How to find the right contraceptive pill
After making the decision to go on the contraceptive pill, your doctor or healthcare professional will likely begin by asking you about you and your family’s medical history and will want to know about any medication you’re taking. They’re also likely to ask you questions about your lifestyle and how likely you’re able to take your pill on a regular basis.
It’s important that your doctor understands why you’d like to take the contraceptive pill as not everyone will start taking the pill to protect against pregnancy. Women may take it for other reasons, for example [5]:
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Reduce stomach cramps
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Reduce heavy bleeding
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Make your periods lighter or shorter
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Stop acne
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Have fewer periods or control irregular bleeding
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Help with PMS symptoms
Your doctor will use this information to help you choose between different types of contraceptive pills, such as the combined oral contraceptive pill or the mini pill. It may take a few months for you to settle down on a particular contraceptive pill and your doctor is likely to want to review how you’re getting on. If you find that the pill you’re on isn’t working for you, talk to a doctor about other contraceptive pills that may be available.
The bottom line
There are two main types of contraceptive pills—the combined pill and the mini pill. Choosing the right one depends on your health, lifestyle, and preferences.
There's ongoing research into a male contraceptive pill that could provide more options for men in the future. If you're curious about male contraception and want to learn more about its development, check out our detailed article on the male contraceptive pill.
In situations where emergency contraception is needed, the morning after pill can be an effective option. Whether due to contraceptive failure or unprotected sex, it's important to know how and where to get it quickly. For more information on accessing the morning after pill in Ireland, visit our guide on how to get the morning after pill.
How Healthhero can support you
If you’re looking for help with contraception, HealthHero offers professional advice and guidance through our team of healthcare experts. To learn more, visit our our medical service page.
This blog was written by Rebekah Louise Benfield, a women's health and wellness specialist writer, for HealthHero.ie.
