We look at the difference between the two basic types of contraceptive pill – the combined pill and progestogen only – as well as latest research that says it protects against some types of cancer, too.

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It's taken by millions of women to protect against pregnancy but the long-term effects and potential health risks mean it doesn't appeal or suit everyone.

However, a new study shows that taking the combined pill has some major health benefits.

Here's what you need to know about taking the pill as a form of contraception ...

The pill prevents cancer – is this true?

Yes, latest research has found that the combined contraceptive pill can help protect against some types of cancer.

The latest study, led by Dr Lisa Iversen, followed 46,000 women for up to 44 years. The size and timeframe of the research meant it was 'able to look at the long-term effects, if there are any, associated with the pill,' explains Dr Iversen.

'What we found from looking at up to 44 years’ worth of data was that having ever used the pill, women are less likely to get colorectal, endometrial and ovarian cancer.

So, the protective benefits from using the pill during their reproductive years are lasting for at least 30 years after women have stopped using the pill,' she says.

Katherine Taylor, Chief Executive of Ovarian Cancer Action, says this is good news:

'The study give a lot of reassurance for women taking the pill. Like all medication have a conversation with your doctor but feel confident that the risk of ovarian cancer and other cancers is actively reduced by taking the pill.'

Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, Chair of the Royal College Of GPs agrees that this latest study is reassuring:

'There are a lot of scare stories in the past about contraceptives and I think this is the sort of evidence that helps put a lot of those scare stories to rest.'

So should we all be taking the pill to help prevent cancers?

'If women are worried about cancers, then we wouldn’t be advising them to take the pill as a preventative measure. That’s not what this study is saying,' says Professor Stokes-Lampard.

'This is saying in women who need a good contraceptive and choose to use it – they may get some incidental benefits in protection but we can’t predict which women will benefit so you would not put women on the pill to prevent cancer, you put them on the pill as a contraceptive choice. That’s quite clear.'

This latest research relates only to the combined pill. So what exactly is this – and what other contraceptive pills are there?

The combined pill

Commonly known as 'the pill', the combined pill contains oestrogen and progestogen which work in the body to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg (they also thicken the mucus in the cervix and thin the lining of the womb to help prevent pregnancy). Both hormones are similar to those produced naturally by the female body and it can be started up to (and including) the fifth day of a period.

Advantages:

• It's easy to use and doesn't interrupt sex.
• It can make periods lighter and less painful.
• Can reduce the risk of fibroids, ovarian cysts and non-cancerous breast disease.
• Pre-menstrual symptoms may be lessened.
• There is strong evidence to show that it can reduce the risk of bowel, ovarian and endometrial (womb) cancer.
• Some specific pills can have the added benefit of reducing skin out breaks in acne-prone women.

Disadvantages:

• Increased risk of headaches, nausea and breast tenderness.
• Breakthrough bleeding.
• Affected moods .
• Raised blood pressure.
• Though not common, there are other more serious side effects including an increased risk of developing breast or cervical cancer (related to taking the pill continuously over a few years).
• It doesn't protect you against STDs.
• The pill will be less effective if you are ill - especially if you have diarrhoea and vomiting. Likewise taking certain medications like antibiotics or St John's Wort can have an impact on the pill's effectiveness.

Progestogen-only pill

This contains progestogen - a synthetic version of the hormone progestorone that women naturally produce in their ovaries. Its primary function is to thicken the mucus plug at the entrance to the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the womb and fertilising an egg. It also has a similar function to the combined pill in that it thins the lining of the womb, though it won't always stop the ovaries from releasing an egg at each cycle.

It's 99% effective, though unlike the combined pill you don't have a seven day break, meaning you'll be taking pills at the same time as your period each month.

Advantages:

• Easy to use with no interruptions to sex.
• It's suitable for breastfeeding mums and provides an adequate source of contraception following the birth of a baby.
• It's suitable for women who can't use oestrogen's, those who are 35+ or smoke.
• It may help with painful periods and pre-menstrual symptoms.

Disadvantages:

• It needs to be taken every day (preferably at the same time) so it's not always ideal for forgetful women or those with busy lives.
• Some women notice spots, increased acne or red marks on their skin.
• Increased risk of breast tenderness.
• Some women may develop small fluid-filled cysts on their ovaries, these aren't harmful and usually disappear without treatment.
• It doesn't protect you against STDs.
• The pill will be less effective if you are ill - especially if you have diarrhoea and vomiting. Likewise taking certain medications like antibiotics or St John's Wort can have an impact on the pill's effectiveness.

Combined pill or progestogen-only pill? Which one suits you?

If you're not still not sure which pill suits you best then your nurse or GP will be able to help by taking into account your health and other circumstances such as whether you're breastfeeding.

There are certain women who should avoid taking either pill, including:

• Smokers or women aged 35+
• Women on certain types of medication (always check with your GP first).
• Overweight women.
• Women with liver, heart or thyroid problems.
• Women with diabetes or thrombosis.
• Women who have or are suffering from breast cancer.

Find out about other contraceptive choices here .

What's the morning after pill?

The emergency contraceptive pill is also nicknamed 'the morning after pill'. It offers belated protection if you've had unprotected sex or if your contraceptive method hasn't worked ie if a condom split or you forgot to take your usual pill.

There are two emergency pills available called Levonelle and ellaOne, which work by preventing or delaying ovulation (release of an egg). The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be.

You can get the morning after pill your GP, Family Planning Clinic or pharmacy and it will cost around £25.

Superdrug has recently announced that it will launch a generic emergency contraceptive pill, which will be half the price of current branded versions (£13.49).

What mums say about the pill ...

'I used the pill for a year without any side effects, but chose to come off it to try for a baby. When my baby arrives later this year, I'll definitely be going back on it as it suits me down to the ground.'

Esther D

'The pill made me feel incredibly nauseous almost immediately after taking the first one. In fact it's much like the type of nausea you get during pregnancy - it comes in waves and creeps up on you unexpectedly! I persevered for almost 6 months but eventually came off it and feel 100% better for it.'

Lisa G

'I had terrible mood swings when I was on Microgynon...I got so angry at every little thing and I didn't like how it was making me feel. I went to the doc he told me to give it 6-8 months but I refused to leave until he switched my pill. I've suffered from PND in the past and my feelings were very similar. Both me and OH certainly didnt wanna go down THAT route again!!! I'm on Cilest now and my moods have definitely improved!'

Aimee H

'I've been taking Cilest for over 12 years (with occasional breaks) and have never had any problems.'

Rachel G