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Free & confidential sexual health services for black and minority communities
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The combined oral contraceptive is often referred to as ‘the pill’. It contains a combination of the two hormones oestrogen and progesterone similar to those produced by the body.
If there are no medical reasons why you cannot take the pill, and you don't smoke, you can take the pill until menopause. However, the pill is not suitable for all women. To find out whether the pill is right for you, always talk to your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist.
You should not take the pill if you:
You should also not take the pill if you have (or have had):
If you have just had a baby and are not breastfeeding, you can start the pill on day 21 after giving birth but you need to check with your doctor. If you are starting the pill after this then you will need to use condoms for 7 days.
If you have had a miscarriage or an abortion you can start the pill up to 5 days after this and you will be protected from pregnancy straight away. If you start the pill after 5 days you will need to use condoms for 7 days.
Advantages
Disadvantages
One pill missed:
If you have missed one pill, or if you have started the new pack one day late:
Two or more pills missed:
If you have missed two or more pills or if you have started the new pack two or more days late:
If seven or more pills are left in the pack after the missed pill:
If fewer than seven pills are left in the pack after the missed pill:
Please note if you have missed a pill and need to take two, this is not the same as taking emergency contraception. If you have missed a pill and are worried talk to a nurse of doctor.
This information does not apply to the combined pill Qlaira. If you use this pill you should contact the doctor or nurse who prescribed it if you are not sure how to take it or read the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Passionate about Sexual Health (PaSH) Partnership) is a collaboration between BHA for Equality, George House Trust and the LGBT Foundation. The PaSH Partnership will deliver a comprehensive programme of interventions to meet the changing needs of people newly diagnosed with HIV, living longer term with HIV or at greatest risk of acquiring HIV.
Free & confidential sexual health services for black and minority communities
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Free and confidential support, advice and advocacy services for people living with HIV
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Providing advice, support and resources for LGBT people to take control of their sexual health and wellbeing
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