CONTRACEPTIVE PILL AND PATCH TREATMENT

If you’re going to take the Oral Contraceptive Pill it’s very important you’re certain that:

• You are not currently pregnant
• You have not given birth in the last month
• You are not currently breastfeeding a baby less than 6 months of age
• You have not had any recent unexplained vaginal bleeding (eg. after sex or between periods)
• You have not had any unexpected changes in your bleeding pattern

If you’re overweight and your BMI is over 35 it’s dangerous for you to take the COCP. Please check your BMI here:

The Oral Contraceptive Pill can cause your blood pressure to go up. You can see your pharmacist, practice nurse or GP for a blood pressure check, or purchase a home blood pressure monitor. It’s important that :

• you’ve had your blood pressure checked in the last 12 months and it was less than 140/90
• you get it checked 3 months after starting the COCP
• you get it checked at least once a year while taking the COCP

There are some important things you need to understand about taking the Oral Contraceptive Pill:

• If you don't take your pill correctly or miss a pill you may become pregnant.
• Read the medication information leaflet carefully so you know how to take your pill correctly
• If you have vomiting or diarrhoea, read the information leaflet and follow the instructions.

• The contraceptive pill may not be absorbed by your gut if your develop diarrhoea and/or vomiting whilst taking it.
• Therefore, it cannot be relied upon as contraception at these times.
• Condoms should be used when these symptoms occur and for 7 days afterwards.