St John's wort is a phytopharmaceutical and is often taken as a remedy for depressive moods, among other things. As St John's wort is not available from pharmacies, it can be bought in drugstores and some supermarkets. However, there is no advice on possible side effects and interactions. How does St John's wort work together with the contraceptive pill?

For St John's wort to work properly, it must be taken regularly over a longer period of time. The effect of the pill can be impaired for up to two weeks after stopping a St John's wort preparation. If you have sexual intercourse during this time without using other contraceptive methods, pregnancy may well occur.