If you’ve been researching different forms of birth control, you’ve probably come across the contraceptive pill. Often referred to simply as “the pill,” it’s one of the most common and reliable methods of contraception in the UK. But how does the pill work, and which type is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll explain how contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy, the difference between the Combined Pill and the Progestogen-Only Pill (POP), and how you can access the right option for free through the NHS service at Blackpool Express Chemist.
What are contraceptive pills?
Contraceptive pills are hormonal medications taken daily to prevent pregnancy. They work by altering your menstrual cycle and creating conditions that make fertilisation and implantation much less likely.
So, how does a contraceptive pill work? Most contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy in three ways:
- Stopping ovulation – no egg is released from the ovaries.
- Thickening cervical mucus – this makes it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
- Thinning the lining of the uterus – which makes it harder for a fertilised egg to implant and develop.
There are two main types of contraceptive pills: the Combined Pill and the Progestogen-Only Pill (POP). Both are available for free at Blackpool Express Chemist as part of the NHS Contraceptive Service.
Progesterine-only Pill
The Progestogen-Only Pill, sometimes called the “mini pill”, contains just one hormone – progestogen. It’s a suitable option for women who can’t take oestrogen, such as those with a history of blood clots or migraines.
How the pill works:
- Thickens the cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg.
- Alters the womb lining to prevent a fertilised egg from implanting.
- In some cases, also stops ovulation.
The POP must be taken at the same time every day without breaks. If taken correctly, it’s more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, our trained team at Blackpool Express Chemist can guide you through your options.
Combined Contraceptive Pill
The Combined Pill contains both oestrogen and progestogen. It is the most commonly prescribed contraceptive pill in the UK.
How The Pill Works:
- Prevents ovulation.
- Thickens cervical mucus.
- Thins the uterine lining.
In addition to preventing pregnancy, the Combined Pill may also help regulate periods, reduce heavy bleeding and cramps, and improve skin conditions like acne.
There are 2 main ways to take the combined pill:
Everyday (ED) Pill
The ED pill pack includes 28 pills: 21 active pills that contain hormones and a set of dummy pills (also called placebos) that don’t. The dummy pills are a different colour and are taken during your “pill-free” days to help you stay in the routine of taking one pill daily.
21-Day Pill
With the 21-day pill, you take one hormone-containing pill every day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break where no pills are taken. During this break, you’ll usually have a withdrawal bleed similar to a period.
How do contraceptive pills regulate periods?
The Combined Pill regulates periods by maintaining stable hormone levels throughout your cycle. It prevents the hormonal fluctuations that typically cause ovulation and menstruation, resulting in more predictable, lighter, and less painful periods.
Are contraceptive pills reliable?
Contraceptive pills are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken exactly as directed. This means that if 100 women chose the contraceptive implant, less than 1 woman will experience an unintended pregnancy within the first year of use.
However, missed pills or certain medications can reduce their effectiveness. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best protection.
While the pill is great for preventing pregnancy, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.
How long will the pill take to work?
How quickly the contraceptive pill becomes effective depends on the type of pill you’re taking and when in your cycle you start it.
If you begin taking the Combined Pill on the first day of your period, you’ll be protected from pregnancy straight away. If you start it at any other point in your cycle, it will take seven days to become effective. During this time, you’ll need to use additional contraception, such as condoms.
The Progesterone-Only Pill (POP) can be started at any time, as long as you’re not pregnant. If you start it within the first five days of your period, it will work immediately. If you begin taking it after day five, you’ll need to use extra contraception for two days until the POP becomes effective.
Side effects of the combined pill
When you first start taking the combined contraceptive pill, it is common to experience some side effects. Bleeding between periods often occurs during the first few months as your body adjusts.
You may also have headaches, dizziness, or sore breasts. However, there is not enough evidence to confirm that these symptoms are directly caused by the pill.
For some people, the pill can actually improve period pain and other symptoms linked to menstruation, such as headaches.
If side effects continue for more than three months and become bothersome, speak to us at Blackpool Express Chemist or your doctor. Changing to a different type of pill or adjusting your pill-free break may help reduce side effects.
Side Effects of the Progestogen-Only Pill
The progestogen-only pill is a popular contraceptive option for many women, especially those who cannot take oestrogen. Like all medications, it can cause side effects, particularly when you first start taking it.
This pill may affect your periods in different ways. You might notice that your periods become lighter, more frequent, or stop altogether. Some people experience spotting or bleeding between periods.
Other possible side effects include acne, mood changes, weight fluctuations, and changes in sex drive (libido). However, there is currently insufficient evidence to confirm that these symptoms are directly caused by the pill.
Most side effects improve within a few months as your body adjusts. If you experience side effects that continue beyond three months or that cause you concern, please speak to a pharmacist or doctor. Our team at Blackpool Express Chemist is here to provide advice and support.
Accessing Free Birth Control Pills at Blackpool Express Chemist
Through the NHS Contraceptive Pill Service, we offer free access to both types of pill. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Speak to our pharmacist in confidence.
Step 2: Choose a pill that suits your cycle, lifestyle, and medical history.
Step 3: If eligible, receive up to a 6-month supply of the contraceptive pill for free.
Step 4: Check in with us anytime for advice, side effect concerns, or alternative options.
Additional Birth Control Support at Blackpool Express Chemist
Alongside daily contraceptive pills, we also offer emergency contraception, often known as the morning after pill.
If you’ve had unprotected sex or experienced a contraceptive issue, such as a missed pill or broken condom, emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy if taken quickly.
What we offer:
- Available without a prescription
- Effective for up to 3 to 5 days after unprotected sex, depending on the type
- Fast, discreet, and confidential access with advice from a trained pharmacist
You can speak to our team in confidence. We’re here to help you make the right choice for your health, without delay or judgement. The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more effective it will be.
Conclusion
Contraceptive pills are a safe, convenient, and highly effective way to manage your reproductive health. Whether you’re looking for reliable pregnancy prevention, more regular periods, or symptom relief, there’s a pill that can support your needs.
At Blackpool Express Chemist, we’re here to offer guidance, confidential support, and free access to the right contraceptive pill through the NHS.