Starting Birth Control Pills After 5 Years: When to Begin?

Q: Starting Birth Control Pills After 5 Years: When to Begin?

Hello Ms. <br>Mandy： You haven't taken birth control pills for many years, so you should start the first pack on the first day of your menstrual cycle.

Oral contraceptives

Hello, doctor.
I have not taken oral contraceptives for over 5 years.
Now I want to start taking a 28-day oral contraceptive again.
Should I begin taking it on the 5th day of my menstrual cycle, as I did before? Thank you for your response!

Mandy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/13

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello Ms.
Mandy: You haven't taken birth control pills for many years, so you should start the first pack on the first day of your menstrual cycle.

Reply Date: 2016/10/13

More Info

When restarting birth control pills after a long break, such as five years, it is essential to consider a few factors to ensure effective contraception and minimize any potential side effects. The general recommendation for starting combination oral contraceptives (the most common type) is to begin taking them either on the first day of your menstrual period or on the first Sunday after your period begins. However, if you have not been on birth control for an extended period, starting on the fifth day of your period can also be an option, but it is crucial to understand the implications.

If you choose to start taking the pills on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle, it is important to note that the contraceptive effect may not be immediate. Typically, it takes about seven days of consistent use for the pills to become fully effective in preventing pregnancy. Therefore, if you have unprotected intercourse during this initial week, you may still be at risk of pregnancy. To mitigate this risk, using a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, during the first week of starting the pills is advisable.

Additionally, if you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or if it has been irregular, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting the pills is a good idea. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and any underlying conditions that may affect your contraceptive needs.

Another consideration is the potential side effects of restarting birth control pills after a long hiatus. Some women may experience side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness, or mood changes when they first start taking the pills again. These side effects are often temporary and may subside after a few months of consistent use. However, if you experience severe side effects or any unusual symptoms, it is essential to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

In summary, while starting birth control pills on the fifth day of your period can be an option, it is crucial to be aware of the waiting period for full contraceptive effectiveness and to consider using a backup method during that time. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help ensure that you are making the best decision for your reproductive health and can address any concerns you may have about side effects or your menstrual cycle. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to tailor your contraceptive plan to your individual needs and circumstances.

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