New contraceptive pill now available to women in the UK

A new combined oral contraceptive pill is now available to women in the UK. The pill, called Qlaira, provides the hormone estradiol, which is the same oestrogen produced naturally by a woman’s body. Leading sexual health agency Marie Stopes International makes the following statement:

“Easy access to a wide range of contraceptive methods is fundamental to preventing unintended pregnancy. Marie Stopes International is therefore very pleased that a new combined oral contraceptive pill is available to women in the UK.

“In order for contraception to be effective, it needs to be used correctly and consistently. To ensure women are able to do this, they need to find a method that best suits them. Therefore, when it comes to a range of contraceptives, it is a case of the bigger the better – the more choice available, the better the chance that a couple will find a contraceptive method to suit them.

“The new combined contraceptive pill is the first to contain a hormone identical to the one produced naturally. This may be preferable to women who feel most comfortable choosing a method that provides a hormone identical to the one produced in the body.

“Oral contraceptive pills are the most popular method of contraception for women living in the UK. However, it is important to remember that contraceptive pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We would encourage couples to make sure they are protected against STIs by using a condom, especially when embarking upon a new relationship.”

Categories: United Kingdom; Europe; Contraception; Family planning

08/06/2009

New contraceptive pill now available to women in the UK

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