How do combined and progestogen-only contraceptive pills differ?
Combined pills contain oestrogen and a progestogen; progestogen-only pills contain no oestrogen. Choice depends on clot risk, migraine, breastfeeding, medical conditions and medicines. Both require correct use, and a single-hormone pill is not automatically suitable for everyone.
Details
When oestrogen may be unsuitable
Combined pills may be inappropriate with previous clots, migraine with aura, certain heart or liver conditions, or smoking from age 35. Selection requires health-history and blood-pressure review rather than simply comparing brand names.
Progestogen-only pills and breastfeeding
These pills suit many people who cannot use oestrogen and can be used while breastfeeding. They still need assessment with conditions such as some liver disorders or a history of breast cancer. Bleeding patterns and late-pill rules differ between products.
Questions to ask
Request written instructions for starting, missed doses, vomiting and medicine interactions. Mention herbal products and other medicines. Pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections; condoms serve that purpose. If taking a pill every day is difficult, discuss longer-acting options instead of repeatedly switching products without advice.
Related reading: When do contraceptive pills become effective, and is backup needed?.