Overview
Combined hormonal contraception contains oestrogen and progestogen and prevents ovulation, while progestogen-only methods thicken cervical mucus and often suppress ovulation too. Both are over 99% effective with perfect use.
Safety screening (UKMEC criteria) covers migraine with aura, blood pressure, BMI, smoking over 35, clotting history and breast cancer, because these determine whether oestrogen-containing options are appropriate.
When to seek urgent medical help
- • Migraine with aura, which makes oestrogen-containing pills unsuitable
- • Calf pain, swelling, chest pain or breathlessness on the pill - urgent
- • Unexplained vaginal bleeding or a possible pregnancy
Symptoms and signs
- Wanting reliable contraception without a clinic appointment
- Heavy, painful or irregular periods you would like to control
- Acne or premenstrual symptoms that hormonal treatment may improve
- Needing to switch method because of side effects
- Repeat prescription required after a previous supply
- Planning ahead for cycle control around events or travel
Management and treatment
The consultation checks blood pressure, BMI, migraine history, clotting risk and current medications, then matches you to a method that fits both your safety profile and your preferences on bleeding patterns and dosing.
Your ChatDoc doctor issues the prescription with clear instructions on starting, missed pills, interactions and when additional protection is needed, plus advice on long-acting options if that suits you better.
Prescription treatment options
Combined oral contraceptive pill
Cycle control, lighter periods and acne benefit for those with no oestrogen contraindications.
Progestogen-only pill (desogestrel)
Suitable with migraine with aura, breastfeeding, smoking over 35 or higher BMI.
Extended or tailored regimens
Continuous or tricycling schedules to reduce bleeds and period-related symptoms.
Advice on long-acting methods
Guidance on implant, injection, IUD and IUS options with referral for fitting.
Any prescription is issued only after a doctor has reviewed your case and considers the treatment safe and appropriate for you.
Your online Birth Control assessment
- 1
Tell us about your concern
Share symptoms, past treatments, medicines and relevant health information.
- 2
Upload clear photos
Upload photos of your concern where applicable.
- 3
Doctor reviews your case
Technology helps organise your answers, but every assessment and prescription decision is made by a doctor, who may message you if they need more information.
- 4
Get your personalised plan
A personalised prescription is issued if treatment is clinically appropriate.
Prognosis and outlook
Contraceptive effectiveness begins immediately or within 7 days depending on when you start and the method chosen. Irregular spotting in the first three months is common and usually settles.
Fertility returns quickly after stopping pills, with the exception of the injection which can delay return of fertility by several months.
Complete care. One simple price.
£24.99
Includes clinician review, live doctor chat & prescription
One payment. No subscription. Any prescription depends on clinical suitability.
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This page is general medical information and does not replace a personal consultation. Always seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms. ChatDoc is not an emergency service. Call 999 (UK) or 112 (EU) for life-threatening emergencies or 111 for urgent non-emergency help. Do not wait for an online reply.