When to get urgent help. Stop taking the pill and call 999 or go to A&E if you develop: pain or swelling in one leg; sudden chest pain or breathlessness; coughing up blood; a sudden, unusually severe headache; weakness or numbness on one side; or sudden problems with your vision or speech. These can be signs of a blood clot or stroke.

Blood clot risk. All combined pills slightly increase the risk of a blood clot. The risk is small and is highest in the first year of use (or when restarting after a break of 4 weeks or more), but it is why we ask so many questions about clots, migraine, blood pressure, weight and smoking.

The combined pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections — condoms may still be needed.
You need a blood pressure check at least once a year while taking it.
If you miss a pill, follow the missed-pill instructions in the patient information leaflet.
Tell a doctor about any new migraines, especially with aura, and attend cervical screening when invited.