What the combined pill does
The combined pill mainly prevents ovulation. When taken correctly it is an effective contraceptive, and it may also make periods more regular, lighter or less painful. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms may still be needed.
Different pills contain different hormones and doses. A previous prescription does not remove the need for review because blood pressure, smoking, migraines and medicines can change over time.
Why blood pressure and migraine matter
The combined pill can raise blood pressure in a small number of people and carries a small risk of blood clots. A current, reliable blood-pressure reading helps the prescriber assess that risk. You should not guess or reuse a very old reading.
Migraine with aura is different from migraine without aura. Aura can include temporary visual changes, tingling, numbness or speech disturbance before or during a headache. Because oestrogen-containing contraception can add to stroke risk in people with aura, a prescriber may recommend a different method.
The questions that change the recommendation
Smoking becomes particularly important from age 35. A personal or close family history of blood clots, some heart or liver conditions, breast cancer, recent childbirth and certain medicines can also affect suitability. Give complete information even if you have taken the pill before without a problem.
If the combined pill is not suitable, that does not mean contraception is unavailable. Progestogen-only pills, implants, injections, intrauterine methods and barrier methods have different benefits and risks. A clinician can help you compare them.
Sources
This guide is for general information. It cannot diagnose you or confirm that a medicine is safe for you. A clinician must assess your individual health and medicines. Call 999 in an emergency or contact NHS 111 for urgent advice.