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Effectiveness

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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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

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