With so many different options available, it can be difficult to determine which contraceptive pill is right for you. 

However, if taken consistently and correctly, contraceptive pills have a success rate of 99%, giving you peace of mind that you’re preventing pregnancy safely. 

So, to help you find the right pill (along with the advice of your doctor), here are some handy tips: 

For the majority of people, the combined pill is often the best option. Why? Because it usually reduces heavy periods and period pain, while also giving you regular periods. It may also help relieve any premenstrual symptoms you normally suffer from. 

That’s why this is the most common type of contraceptive pill, with the most popular brands including Cilest, Microgynon, Rigevidon and Yasmin. 

The combined pill isn’t suitable for everyone, however, with some symptoms and side effects indicating that taking estrogen isn’t medically suitable for you. If this is the case, the mini pill may be better as it doesn’t raise your blood pressure, but you may find that your periods aren’t as controlled. Irregular bleeding is a side effect for 40% of women taking the mini pill. 

The mini pill is taken every day, and doesn’t include a 7-day break like the combined pill. Any breaks will mean you aren’t protected from pregnancies. 

Another important thing to remember when taking the mini pill is you often only have a 3-hour window in which to take it. If you take it after this time, you won’t be protected. The only exception to this rule is Cerazette, which offers you a 12-hour window in which you can take your pill. This is why it’s the most popular brand. 

Sore breasts, headaches and nausea are all side effects of the combined pill, and, although rare, it can cause blood clots in the lungs and legs, and an increased risk of some types of cancer. But one of the positive side effects of Yasmin is that it’s very ‘skin friendly’, being a great choice if you do suffer from acne. 

There are pros and cons to each type of contraceptive pill, and even though you may experience some side effects in the first few months of taking it, these sometimes ease off after a while. At first, it may be a little trial and error finding the right pill for you, but you should be able to find one that suits your body and lifestyle.