Combined pill
Oestrogen and progestogen. The classic daily pill.
Free on the NHS
The combined pill is over 99% effective when taken correctly, often gives you lighter and more regular bleeds, and is quickly reversible if you stop. Order online in minutes, with no GP appointment.
- One pill a day for 21 days, then a 7 day break
- Up to 24 hours if you take one late
- Reviewed by a registered pharmacist
- Discreet packaging, free delivery
Your pharmacist confirms it is safe for you before anything is sent.
Why choose the combined pill?
Over 99% effective
When taken correctly, the combined pill is one of the most reliable forms of contraception.
A 24 hour window
More forgiving than the mini pill. You have up to 24 hours if you take one late.
Lighter, regular bleeds
Often makes periods lighter, more regular and less painful. Can help with PMS and acne.
Posted to your door
Discreet packaging, free delivery. No GP appointment and no pharmacy queue.
Order in three simple steps
01
Answer a few questions
A short online health check. It takes about two minutes.
02
A pharmacist reviews it
One of our registered pharmacists checks the combined pill is safe and right for you.
03
Delivered to your door
Your pill arrives in discreet packaging, free on the NHS.
Who it suits
- Most women aged 16 to 49
- Anyone wanting a reliable, reversible method
- Those who want more regular, often lighter bleeds
- Those who can take a pill at roughly the same time each day
Who it may not suit
The combined pill is not usually recommended if you:
- Smoke and are 35 or over
- Have a BMI of 35 or more
- Have high blood pressure
- Get migraine with aura
- Have a history of blood clots or stroke
- Are breastfeeding a baby under 6 months old
If any of these apply, the mini pill is often a good alternative. Your pharmacist will help you decide.
Combined pill questions
Is the combined pill free on the NHS?
Yes. The combined pill is free through the NHS pharmacy contraception service for eligible patients in England, including the consultation and delivery. There is nothing to pay.
How effective is the combined pill?
Over 99% effective when taken correctly, one pill at the same time each day. With typical use, where pills are sometimes missed or taken late, it is around 91% effective.
How do I take the combined pill?
Usually one pill a day for 21 days, then a 7 day break where you will have a bleed. Some people take it continuously with no break, as advised by their pharmacist.
Who can take the combined pill?
Most women aged 16 to 49 can take it. It is not usually suitable if you smoke and are over 35, have a BMI of 35 or more, high blood pressure, migraine with aura, or a history of blood clots or stroke. Your pharmacist will check this with you.
What if I miss a combined pill?
You have a 24 hour window. Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if that means two in one day, then carry on as normal. If you miss two or more, follow the NHS missed pill guidance or speak to our team.
What are the side effects of the combined pill?
The most common are headaches, feeling sick, breast tenderness and mood changes. These usually settle within the first three months. Your pharmacist will explain what to look out for.
Missed a pill? See the NHS guidance. Last reviewed by Clinician name, TODO: date.
Not sure? There is also the mini pill
One hormone, no oestrogen, taken every day with no break. Often an option if the combined pill does not suit you.
Ready to begin?
Start your free eligibility check now. It takes two minutes and there's no obligation to order.
