If you’re a woman, here is a story that may sound familiar: you’re 16 years old sitting in a GP’s office. She asks you a couple of routine questions – do you have a family history of blood clots, could you be pregnant? Ten minutes later you’re out the door, a little sleeve of contraceptive pills in hand. “Remember to take them at the same time each day.” You’ll probably never see her again.
Think back – do you remember her telling you about the pill’s myriad side effects, for example that all forms of hormonal contraception are associated with an increased risk of depression? Or talking you through the different pills available and which might be best suited to you? Likely not.
