Contraception Treatment

Contraception Treatment

Accidentally run out of your contraception? Request your contraception script with the ease of no face-to-face appointments, no waiting room, all from your phone.

Relevant Services:

Accidentally run out of your contraception? Request your contraception script with the ease of no face-to-face appointments, no waiting room, all from your phone.

Relevant Services:

Dr. Sarah Cavanagh Chief Medical Officer InstantScripts

Speak to our doctors 24/7

Dr. Sarah Cavanagh Chief Medical Officer InstantScripts

How our doctors can help

Referrals or tests

Management plan

Medical information

Treatment options

Need your prescription?

Request to have an eScript sent straight to your phone and email.

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We offer same-day delivery on medication to select locations in Australia for a small delivery fee.

What is the combined oral contraceptive pill?

How does the pill work?

The pill primarily works by preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries. It also thickens the cervical mucus to block sperm entry and alters the lining of the uterus to make it less receptive to implantation. Some types of the pill are effective from the first day of use, while others require a week of consistent use to become effective.

What are the types of combined oral contraceptive pills?

There are various types of combined OCP available. They function similarly but may differ in composition or packaging. It's important to consult with a doctor to determine the most suitable option. The pill is usually taken daily at the same time, with some packs containing 21 tablets followed by a 7-day break.

How effective is the pill?

The combined OCP is highly effective when taken consistently and without missing doses. However, its effectiveness may be reduced if not taken regularly, even by missing a single day.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the pill?

The pill may offer several advantages, including high effectiveness, safety for most women, a prompt return of fertility after discontinuation, regulation of the menstrual cycle, reduction of period pain, improvement of acne, endometriosis symptoms, PMS, and certain menopause symptoms. It may also lower the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers. However, disadvantages include the need for consistent daily use, potential side effects (such as breast tenderness, nausea, bloating, headaches, weight gain, decreased sex drive, skin discoloration, and mood changes), a rare risk of blood clots or stroke.

What should you do if you forget to take the pill?

Forgetting to take the pill, even once, can decrease its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Instructions for such situations can be found on the pill packet, and additional contraceptive methods, like condoms, should be considered until the next period occurs.

What is the combined oral contraceptive pill?

The combined oral contraceptive pill, also known as "the pill" or OCP, is a form of contraception taken as a tablet. It contains two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, and is used to prevent pregnancy while also helping to regulate periods and reduce menstrual pain.

Sources

Sources: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-pill-combined-oral-contraceptive-pill, Jean Hailes for Women's Health (Contraception), Family Planning NSW (Combined oral contraceptive pill), Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Risk of venous thromboembolism in women taking the combined oral contraceptive), The Royal Women's Hospital (Contraceptive pills).