Combined Hormonal Contraception:
The Pill, Patch, and Vaginal Ring

What is Combined Hormonal Contraception?

Combined hormonal contraception relates to birth control methods that use a combination of two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, to prevent pregnancy. These hormones work by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation. 

​

Combined hormonal contraception is known for its effectiveness (when taken correctly) and can provide additional health benefits, including regulating menstrual cycles, helping with heavy or painful periods, and even reducing the risk of certain cancers.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

The Contraceptive Pill

The contraceptive pill, often simply called "the pill," is a daily medication that offers reliable protection against pregnancy when taken as directed. The regimen can be tailored to suit a woman's particular needs - with some women choosing to take a monthly break from the pill and others using it continuously.

 

Key Benefits:

• Highly effective form of contraception when taken correctly

• Can reduce symptoms of PMS

• Can greatly improve or eliminate severe period pain associated with conditions such as endometriosis

• Can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding associated with certain conditions such as fibroids or adenomyosis

• Offers the possibility to skip periods

​

 

 

The Contraceptive Patch

The contraceptive patch is a small, adhesive patch that you apply to your skin once a week for three weeks. Like the pill, a monthly break may be taken or patches can be run back-to-back to prevent menstrual bleeding for women with troublesome periods. 

​

It releases the same hormones as the combined pill and offers similar benefits, making it a convenient alternative for those who prefer not to take a daily pill.
 

Key Benefits:

• Easy to use and does not need to be changed daily

• Works effectively even if you're sick or have gastrointestinal issues

• Can be worn discreetly under clothing

​

​

​

The Vaginal Ring

The vaginal ring is a flexible, plastic ring that is inserted into the vagina once a month. It releases hormones locally, directly into the reproductive system, offering effective contraception with the same benefits of other combined hormonal methods.

 

Like the pill and the patch, a break may be taken after 3 weeks of having the ring inserted, or rings may be used back-to-back to avoid menstrual bleeding.

​

Key Benefits:

• Convenient monthly application

• Lower doses of hormones with less risk of side effects

• Can be inserted and removed by the user

• Choosing the Right Method for You

​

​

​

Combined Hormonal Contraception: Things To Consider 

 

There are some women for whom combined hormonal contraception is not a suitable option. 
 

• The combination of oestrogen and progestogen acts to increase the risk of a clot (such as deep vein thrombosis or DVT). Therefore if women have other risk factors for clots it would not be the first choice for them. This includes being a smoker age 35 or over, having a BMI of 35 or over, suffering from migraines with aura. Your clot risk will always be assessed at your consultation.
   

• There is a small increased risk of breast cancer when using combined hormonal contraception, therefore these methods would not be suitable for women who have had breast cancer.
   

• There are a few other less common conditions which would mean combined hormonal contraception would not be suitable. 

​

Thankfully there are many other options available if combined hormonal contraception is not suitable for you. Deciding on the right contraceptive method is a personal choice that should always be made based on your health, lifestyle, and reproductive goals. 

 

At LifeCycle Women's Health Clinic, our experienced and trusted team are here to guide you through your options, answer your questions, and support you in making the best decision for you.
 

Book Your Consultation Today

Take the first step towards personalised contraceptive care. Book your consultation online today to discuss your options for Combined Hormonal Contraception, and explore which is the most suitable contraception method for you.

 

At LifeCycle Women's Health Clinic, we're here to guide you through every step of your health journey, offering expert advice, comprehensive care, and a supportive environment.

​

For more information, contact us at info@lifecycleclinic.ie or call us at 089 2647486 / 091 339566. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we look forward to welcoming you to our clinic in Salthill, Galway.