Pill, ring & patch
The classic hormonal methods — daily, monthly or weekly. Reliable when used correctly, but not the right choice for every woman. Here is what sets them apart and what really matters when choosing.
Three routes, one principle
Combined preparations (oestrogen + progestin) suppress ovulation — whether as a daily pill, a vaginal ring worn for three weeks, or a patch changed weekly. Ring and patch bypass the digestive tract: practical if you are forgetful, vomiting, or travelling across time zones.
There is also the progestin-only pill (oestrogen-free): no oestrogen-related thrombosis surcharge, suitable while breastfeeding and with contraindications to oestrogen — but somewhat less forgiving of intake errors and more often associated with irregular bleeding.
The topic we raise proactively: thrombosis
Combined preparations increase thrombosis risk — how much depends on the progestin. Preparations with levonorgestrel are among the lowest-risk; some newer progestins double the risk compared to them. Which is why "the pill my friend takes" is not a good basis for prescribing.
- Before every first prescription: personal and family history of thrombosis, blood pressure, smoking status, migraine with aura
- Our line: low-risk preparations first — switching only with a reason
- Over 35 plus smoking, or migraine with aura: combined preparations are off the table; then progestin-only pill, IUD or hormone-free methods
Costs & insurance
Up to your 22nd birthday, statutory insurance covers prescription contraception (with a prescription fee from 18). After that you pay yourself: roughly €5–25 per month depending on the preparation. Repeat prescriptions are easy via our online reception — no appointment needed, as long as the yearly check (blood pressure, history update) has taken place.
Frequent questions about pill, ring & patch
I forgot a pill — what now?
It depends on the week and the delay. Rule of thumb: one missed pill (less than 12 hours late) — take it, protection continues. Longer or several: take it, use additional contraception for 7 days, and when in doubt ask via the online reception — we reply quickly on weekdays.
Do I need to take regular "breaks" from the pill to relieve my body?
No. Breaks without a wish for pregnancy achieve nothing medically but increase the risk of unintended pregnancy — and thrombosis risk is actually highest in the first months after each restart. Break myths date from another era.
Can I shift my period or skip it with the pill?
Yes — the extended cycle (several blister packs without a break) is medically established and even beneficial for many women with period problems. How exactly depends on your preparation — just ask, we will explain it for your pill.
Ring or patch instead of the pill — who benefits from switching?
Anyone stressed by daily intake or who feels the fluctuations in hormone levels. Note: the patch tends to have a slightly higher oestrogen load; the ring the lowest among combined methods.
Your question not here?Write to us — directly and securely via the online reception.
Ask your questionWhich method fits your everyday life?
A first prescription with a proper history, or an honest method check of your current pill — either way one appointment, either way no sales pressure.
Request a consultation Ask a question — online reception