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.
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]:
The combined contraceptive pill is highly effective at preventing pregnancy [2]:
Learn more about the side effects of contraceptive pills.
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]:
The mini pill is also highly effective [4]:
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]:
You are older than 35 and smoke
Have just had a baby and are breastfeeding
Have high blood pressure
Have a history of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis
Have had breast cancer
If you take St. John’s wort (herbal supplement)
The mini pill (such as the Cerazette mini pill) may not be suitable if [5]:
You have breast cancer
You have a liver disease
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.
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]:
Headaches
Feeling or being sick
Sore breasts
Irregular bleeding or bleeding in between your periods
Changes to your mood
Bloating
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]:
Reduce stomach cramps
Reduce heavy bleeding
Make your periods lighter or shorter
Stop acne
Have fewer periods or control irregular bleeding
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 your doctor about other contraceptive pills that may be available.
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.
If you’re in Ireland and need help managing your contraceptive pill prescriptions, HealthHero.ie can assist you.
This blog was written by Rebekah Louise Benfield, a women's health and wellness specialist writer, for HealthHero.ie.