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With over 20 different types of combined pills to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start in order to determine the best contraceptive pill for your needs. A few years ago the Family Planning Association said women are forced to put up with painful periods, water retention and problem skin because their doctors aren't prescribing them the right contraceptive pills. Of the wide range available, many GPs rely on the five most popular types when offering oral contraceptives. But what should you look out for to find the best contraceptive method?
When choosing a pill, it's important to remember that everyone's body responds differently to hormones and the first brand you try won't necessarily suit your body perfectly. It is a case of trial and error with every woman, and you'll need to try a few different types of combined contraceptive pills before you'll know which suits your body.
If you've never used combined contraceptive pills before, your doctor will usually prescribe you a monophasic pill. Every type of pill has the potential to cause benefits or side effects. For this reason you should discuss any existing conditions with your doctor, because it can affect which pills are safe for you to use. If you suffer from acne, hirsutism, polycystic ovary syndrome or endometriosis, certain combined contraceptive pills can provide symptomatic relief.
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It's easy to see if the combined contraceptive pill you're using doesn't suit your body because you'll experience side effects. All kinds of oral contraceptives can cause side effects, but they should become milder with time.
If you experience serious side effects like severe abdominal pain, shortness of breath or tightness in the chest, severe headache, vision problems or leg pains, you should stop taking the pill and talk to your doctor.
You should see your doctor every few months when using a new combined contraceptive pill. This will allow your doctor to monitor your health, and allow you to discuss any side effects you've developed. It's important to tell your doctor of any side effects you've noticed, and explain if they remain or have disappeared, because this information will help them recommend alternative pills that may be better suited to your body.
If the doctor feels the combined contraceptive pill is unsafe, they may recommend a progestogen-only pill (the mini pill).
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