Qlaira is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing estradiol valerate and dienogest, designed to prevent pregnancy effectively when taken correctly. It is suitable for women looking for reliable contraception and can also help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce period pain, and make periods more predictable. Qlaira comes as an 84-day tablet supply and should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle for best results.
How Qlaira Works
Qlaira works by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and altering the uterine lining to reduce the chance of pregnancy. When taken as directed, it offers over 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and helps make menstrual cycles more regular.
Benefits of Qlaira
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Provides effective pregnancy prevention
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Can reduce period pain and make cycles more predictable
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May help with hormonal-related symptoms such as heavy bleeding or premenstrual discomfort
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Offers convenient 84-day tablet supply for continuous protection
Who Can Use Qlaira
Qlaira is suitable for adult women who want reliable contraception and prefer a combined pill option. Before starting, a UK-registered doctor will review your medical history to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you. It is not suitable for women with certain health conditions, including a history of blood clots, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or certain types of migraine.
Qlaira – Side Effects
While most women tolerate Qlaira well, some may experience side effects. Common side effects include mild headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and spotting between periods. These are usually temporary and often settle after the first few months of use.
Less common side effects may include changes in libido, bloating, or digestive disturbances. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, or notice unusual signs such as leg pain, swelling, or severe headaches, contact your GP or our UK-registered doctors immediately.
What are the side effects of the contraceptive pill?
Side effects are generally uncommon and mild, but it’s important to be aware of any that may occur. Some of the most common side effects include:
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Mood swings
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Headaches
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Nausea
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Breast tenderness
For a full list of potential side effects, you can consult the NHS website on contraception or refer to the patient information leaflet provided with your pill.
Advantages of the Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC)
The combined pill can help:
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Make periods lighter, less painful, and more regular
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Provide over 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly
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Reduce the risk of womb (uterine) and ovarian cancer
Disadvantages of the Combined Oral Contraceptive
Some users may experience side effects, including:
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Breast tenderness
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Spotting between periods
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Nausea
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Headaches or mood swings
Advantages of the Progesterone-Only Pill (Mini Pill)
The mini pill offers benefits such as:
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Lower likelihood of side effects as it does not contain oestrogen
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Suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen
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Safe to use while breastfeeding
Disadvantages of the Progesterone-Only Pill
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Must be taken at the same time every day
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Effectiveness may be reduced if more than 3 hours late (or 12 hours for desogestrel-containing pills)
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Periods may become irregular, stop altogether, or become more frequent
Which pill is right for me?
Your doctor will take a thorough medical history to recommend the most suitable contraceptive pill.
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For most women, the combined pill is the preferred choice.
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For women over 35, smokers, migraine sufferers, or those with other risk factors, the progesterone-only pill may be safer.
Consult with a doctor to determine the best option for your individual circumstances.
Am I protected against pregnancy straight away?
Some pills provide immediate protection if taken correctly, while others may take several days to be fully effective. Refer to your pill’s patient information leaflet for exact guidance.
Do I still need to use a condom?
While the pill is highly effective against pregnancy, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Using a condom is recommended to reduce the risk of STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
I forgot to take my pill – what should I do?
It’s important to take your pill at the same time each day to maintain maximum contraceptive protection. Different pills have different guidelines for missed doses. Always refer to your medication’s patient information leaflet for detailed instructions.
Where can I get the contraceptive pill in the UK?
You can speak to your GP or visit a sexual health clinic to receive the pill free via the NHS.
Alternatively, if you already have a prescription, you can order the contraceptive pill online from Reach Online Pharmacy. Complete a medical assessment form for our UK-registered doctors to review. Once approved, your medication will be dispensed by our pharmacy team and delivered to your chosen address via Royal Mail, including next working day delivery options.
Before taking any medication, it is important to read the Patient Information Leaflet. You can find information leaflets for your medicines by typing them into the search bar at medicines.org, or by contacting us.
Qlaira is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing estradiol valerate and dienogest, designed to prevent pregnancy effectively when taken correctly. It is suitable for women looking for reliable contraception and can also help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce period pain, and make periods more predictable. Qlaira comes as an 84-day tablet supply and should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle for best results.
