The pill (combined oral contraceptive pill)

The combined oral contraceptive pill, usually called 'the pill', is a type of contraception (birth control) that can also help control your periods.

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Hormonal contraceptives and periods

Find out how different hormonal contraceptives (for example the oral contraceptive pill, hormonal IUD, and injection) might affect your period.

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Progestogen-only pill (mini pill)

The progestogen-only pill (POP) is a type of contraception (birth control) that is sometimes called the mini pill. Read about the types of POP.

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'Morning after' pill (emergency contraception pill)

The 'morning after' pill is a type of emergency contraception. It can be used within a few days of unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

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Oestrogen

Oestrogen is a female sex hormone which helps control puberty and strengthen bones. Learn how too much or too little can cause health conditions.

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Acne treatments

There are many effective treatments available for acne, including creams for your skin and oral medicines. Learn about the different options.

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Bleeding between periods

Vaginal bleeding between periods is a common symptom. Find out what can cause bleeding between your periods and when you should see your doctor.

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Thrombosis

Thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is where a blood clot forms in a vein or artery. Learn about the risk factors and how to prevent it.

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Lipoedema

Lipoedema is an incurable condition featuring an abnormal build up of fatty tissue usually in the legs. It causes pain and swelling. Learn to help manage it.

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Hormone medications

Hormones are used for contraception (for example, the pill) and menopause (known as MHT or HRT). Learn how they work, their side effects and your options.

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Medicines and breastfeeding

While most medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding, some can affect your baby. Learn out more about medicines and breastfeeding here.

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Doxycycline

Doxycycline is an antibiotic medicine. Read what doxycycline is used for, how it works, its risks and what to do if you miss a dose.

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Contraception options

Some types of contraception (birth control) are easier to use or more effective than others - know how to make the best choice for you.

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Erythema nodosum

Erythema nodosum causes red lumps on your lower legs, that can be painful. Learn about the symptoms and treatments for erythema nodosum.

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Varicose veins surgery

Varicose veins are a common problem and can lead to complications if left untreated. Support stockings can help to control symptoms but will not remove the varicose veins.

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Inserting an IUCD

A coil or intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUD) is a contraceptive device. An IUD can be removed by your doctor. Read about how this method of contraception works and how a IUD is inserted.

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Laparoscopic sterilisation

A laparoscopic sterilisation is a permanent method of female contraception. It involves blocking both fallopian tubes to prevent you from becoming pregnant.

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Bilateral vasectomy

A vasectomy is an operation to cut the tubes that carry sperm from your testicles. It is a permanent and effective method of male contraception.

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Why am I spotting between periods? Plus 9 other female health questions answered

healthdirect’s Chief Medical Officer answers how to handle the symptoms of endometriosis and bleeding between your periods, plus other questions.

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Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, teas, chocolate and energy drinks. It acts on your brain and nervous system. Learn more about caffeine here.

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Vaginal thrush

Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection caused by the candida species of fungus. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatments here.

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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that occurs in a vein. Complications can be serious. Find out about the symptoms and how to prevent a DVT.

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St John's wort

St John's wort can treat mild-to-moderate depression. It isn't safe for everyone, and can even be dangerous for some. Learn if it's right for you.

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Contraceptive vaginal ring

Read about the vaginal ring - a type of contraception (birth control) that works in the same way as the pill and can help control your periods.

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Managing period pain

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) can make it difficult to enjoy your normal activities. Learn how to manage painful periods and when to see your doctor.

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Endovenous ablation

Varicose veins are a common problem and can lead to complications if left untreated. Support stockings can help to control symptoms but will not remove the varicose veins.

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Irregular periods

Irregular periods are periods that don’t follow a regular pattern. If your period stops or changes in any way, you should see your doctor.

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Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea)

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is common, especially among young females. Learn more about the symptoms and treatments of painful periods.

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Heavy periods

Heavy periods (menorrhagia) are common. Here's what you can do for heavy periods, starting with a doctor's visit, medicines and surgery.

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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome refers to symptoms that occur around the time of your period. There are ways to help manage your premenstrual symptoms.

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