Contraception – COCP
The combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) is a daily pill containing oestrogen and progestogen that prevents pregnancy. It's one of the most widely used contraceptive methods in the UK
About contraception – cocp
The COCP works mainly by preventing ovulation, as well as thickening cervical mucus and thinning the womb lining. Taken correctly, it's over 99% effective, though typical use (allowing for missed pills) is closer to 91%. It also offers some non-contraceptive benefits, such as more regular, lighter periods
Treatments
Symptoms
Not a condition with symptoms of its own, but possible side effects include:
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Breakthrough bleeding, especially in the first few months
Diagnosis
Suitability is assessed through a health questionnaire covering personal and family medical history, blood pressure, smoking status and BMI, since certain conditions (such as a history of blood clots, migraine with aura, or uncontrolled high blood pressure) make the COCP unsuitable
Treatment
Once assessed as suitable, the COCP is taken once daily, usually with a 7-day pill-free interval or, for some regimens, continuously. It requires no ongoing monitoring beyond periodic blood pressure and health checks. Missed pill guidance depends on when in the cycle the pill was missed
Prevention and self-care
• Take the pill at the same time each day to build a routine
• Know what to do if a pill is missed or vomiting occurs
• Use condoms as back-up in the first 7 days if starting mid-cycle
• Report new severe headaches, leg swelling/pain, or chest pain promptly
• Have blood pressure checked regularly
• Review suitability at each renewal, as personal risk factors can change over time
Reviewed by Hamza Iqbal Naheed, Superintendent Pharmacist, GPhC 2209194 (check the register) · Last updated 21 September 2026