Drovelis, a new combined pill, has just launched in the UK

It’s been over 60 years since the contraceptive pill was introduced, marking, for many women, the freedom from the fear of an unwanted pregnancy and sexual liberation.

While there are lots of other alternative birth control methods today, the pill is still the most popular form of contraception in the UK. And now, a new combined pill has just launched in the UK – it’s called Drovelis and it’s the first of its kind to contain a new type of oestrogen that’s never been used in hormonal contraceptives before.

Here, intimate women’s health specialist Dr Shirin Lakhani, of Elite Aesthetics, gives GLAMOUR the ultimate lowdown on Drouvelis and what you should know.

What is Drovelis made up from?

“Drovelis is a combined pill made up of the oestrogen Estretrol and contains 3mg progestogen Drospirenone.

“The packs contain 28 tablets, which are made up of 24 active tablets and 4 inactive tablets, that do not contain any active ingredients.

“It contains a new type of oestrogen, which hasn’t been used in hormonal contraceptives before. Most combined contraceptives contain an oestrogen called ethinylestradiol, but Drovelis contains estretrol.”

What are the benefits of this new pill and how effective is it?

“Estretrol is normally produced uniquely in pregnancy. Estretrol is E4 and they have synthesised it.

“It is similar to Yasmin and Lucette as it contains a type of progestogen called Drospirenone, which has an anti-androgenic effect in the body so people using these pills regularly report improved skin.

“It may also be beneficial as the new oestrogen is less potent than ethinylestradiol so people will be monitored over the next few years to see if it reduces the side effects of blood clots, which although rare, are a side effect of using combined pills.

“Studies have shown Drovelis to be to be effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies in 2 main studies involving a total of around 3,400 women.

“Another advantage is that you are taking a daily tablet so it makes it easier to remember. Sometimes with the contraceptive pill, you take 21 tablets and then have a 7 day break but it’s easier to remember if you have a daily tablet as it becomes routine.”

Are there any side-effects?

“There are side-effects with any combined pill,” says Dr Lakhani. “The side effects of Drovelis include irregular bleeding between periods, headache, acne, and painful periods. It should not be used by women with a history of blood clots or women who have experienced severe liver and kidney problems, liver tumours or hormone-dependent cancers.”

Can I get it without a prescription?

“No, Drovelis can only be obtained with a prescription.”

^{If you are thinking of changing your method of contraception, always speak to your GP first.}