Women unsure which pill they are taking
Almost half of women taking the oral contraceptive pill are not sure which type of pill they are taking. This is a finding from a recent MORI social research institute survey commissioned by Brook Advisory Centres.
Of 682 women aged 16–55 years surveyed, 23 per cent reported taking
the contraceptive pill, but 43 per cent of these were not sure whether
it was the combined pill or the progestogen-only pill (POP). Most POPs
need to be taken within three hours of the specified time to remain effective,
compared with 12 hours for combined pills, so women who are unaware which
type of pill they are taking may risk unplanned pregnancy. The survey
also showed that less than half of women taking the contraceptive pill
felt they were given adequate choice in their selection of their pill.
The study was funded by Organon Laboratories. At the same time, Organon
has announced that the “missed pill window” for its POP Cerazette
(desogestrel) has been extended, following new evidence that it consistently
inhibits ovulation even when tablets are taken 12 hours late. Cerazette
may now be taken up to 12 hours after the specified time without compromising
contraceptive protection. Organon says that Cerezette is the first oestrogen-free
pill to inhibit ovulation to the same extent as a combined pill.
Notice-board p11 |
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