Like with all medications, the pill is not for everyone. Mini pills (progestogen-only pills) have less contraindications than combined pills.
If you’re over 35 and a smoker, you shouldn’t use the combined pill (COCs) or any other kind of contraceptive that contains the hormone oestrogen. You can take progestogen-only pills (POPs or mini pills) if you’re a smoker.
Also avoid using combined pills if you’ve had:
- Blood clots, an inherited blood-clotting disorder, or vein inflammation
- Breast cancer
- Heart attack, stroke, angina, or other serious heart problems
- Migraine headaches with aura (seeing flashing, zigzag lines)
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Uncontrolled diabetes or severe liver disease
Avoid using progestogen-only pills if you’ve had:
- Certain forms of lupus
- Breast cancer