Why we need a blood pressure reading when ordering the combined pill, patch or ring
Written by The Lowdown on Oct 29, 2021
When ordering the combined pill, patch or vaginal ring with The Lowdown, you will need to provide us with your recent blood pressure (BP) reading.
For a small minority of users, the combined pill, patch and ring can cause an increase in blood pressure which can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. – In line with national guidance we therefore ask you to get a blood pressure check within 3 months of placing your order and every 12 months to ensure your contraception is safe for you!
It’s super important and it only takes a quick trip to the pharmacy or you can buy your own blood machine online if you prefer.
Here’s a list of options to choose from:
- Blood Pressure UK: Find your nearest free blood pressure check
- LloydsPharmacy: blood pressure checks
- Amazon.co.uk: Blood Pressure Monitors
- Blood Pressure Monitors
If you have a subscription with us, we will contact you before your renewal to remind you to get a BP check. Legally, we cannot renew your subscription without you updating your medical details.
If your blood pressure is raised, we won’t be able to prescribe your medication and will offer alternatives. Don’t worry – we have an excellent team of doctors who you can chat with about your contraception options.
If you have any questions about this, email hello@thelowdown.com for more details.
The Lowdown
We are a real-word evidence platform for women’s health that’s visited by almost 2 million women every year. We enable women to review and research their health conditions, symptoms and medications so they can make more informed decisions. Our approach is unique; we provide credible, scientific information alongside reviews from our community of women. We believe that listening to women’s experiences of healthcare is crucial to improving it. Any articles written by "The Lowdown" are written by a range of Lowdown team members and medical professionals.