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Best Contraceptive Pill for Your Body
Finding the right contraceptive pill for your body can sometimes feel like trying to find a good pair of jeans—impossible. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all option. We’re all made differently, and we all have our own health requirements.
Which pill is better for acne or heavy periods? What should you choose if you’re over-40? Whether it’s the combined pill, the mini pill, or a specific brand, we’ll break down the best contraceptive pill for your individual needs.
Three key takeaways
- Most of the time, there isn’t a specific brand of pill that’s better. It's the type of pill (combined or mini) that makes a difference, as they contain different hormones.
- Not every contraceptive pill is suitable for everyone, and it can sometimes take trial and error before you find one that works for you.
- You can get your regular contraceptive pill or start a new one with us today through the NHS Free Contraception Service.
Best contraceptive pills at a glance
| Issue | Best contraceptive pill |
| Acne | Combined pill |
| Weight loss | Yasmin (combined pill) |
| Migraines | Without aura: either, but the combined pill may help if migraines are hormone-related With aura: mini pill |
| Anxiety and depression | Both pills can cause mood changes, not improvements |
| Endometriosis and heavy periods | Mini pill may be more effective |
| Over 40s | Mini pill preferred |
| Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) | Combined pill |
| Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) | Those containing drospirenone, such as Yasmin, Lucette, or Eloine (combined pill) |
| Libido | Both pills can increase or decrease it |
| Stop periods | Combined pill allows more control |
| Breastfeeding | Mini pill |