effectiveness
Last reviewed 11/2020
Tests show that for every 100 women who take the combined pill carefully and consistently, less than one become pregnant in a year. With less careful and consistent use, however, one to two will get pregnant, and among chaotic pill users, the failure rate may rise to 7%.
To ensure maximal effectiveness:
- the pill must be taken regularly
- a routine - same time - should be established
- another contraceptive method should be used in addition if the patient misses a pill, is sick, has severe diarrhoea, or is taking medicines that may reduce the effectiveness of the combined pill