When to Start Taking Birth Control Pills After a Break?

Oral contraceptives

If you have been taking birth control pills for two years and stopped two months ago, you can start taking the pills again.
It is generally recommended to start the first pack of birth control pills on the first day of your menstrual period.
However, if you start taking them at a different time, such as on the fifth day of your period, you should use additional contraception for the first seven days to ensure effectiveness.
Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

yy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/29

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, start taking the contraceptive pill on the fifth day of your menstrual period.
If taken consistently, it will be effective for contraception.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/10/29

More Info

When considering when to start taking birth control pills after a break, it is essential to understand the guidelines surrounding the initiation of oral contraceptives. If you have been off the pill for two months and are looking to resume, the timing of when to start can depend on several factors, including your menstrual cycle and the specific type of birth control pill you are using.

Typically, the general recommendation is to start taking birth control pills either on the first day of your menstrual period or on the Sunday following the start of your period. If you choose to start on the first day of your period, this is often referred to as the "first-day start" method. This approach ensures that you are immediately protected against pregnancy, as the hormones in the pills will begin to work right away.

Alternatively, if you opt for the Sunday start method, you would begin taking the pills on the first Sunday after your period begins. This method is often used to help align your menstrual cycle with the weekend, allowing for more convenience. However, if you choose this method and you start the pill after your period has begun, it is recommended to use a backup method of contraception (such as condoms) for the first seven days of taking the pill to ensure you are protected against pregnancy.

In your case, since you have been off the pill for two months, it is crucial to consider the following:
1. Menstrual Cycle: If you have just started your period, you can begin taking the pills on the first day. If your period has not yet started, you may want to wait until it does to ensure you are following the recommended guidelines.

2. Type of Birth Control Pill: Some birth control pills have specific instructions regarding when to start. For example, combination pills (which contain both estrogen and progestin) generally follow the guidelines mentioned above. However, progestin-only pills (also known as the "mini-pill") may have different initiation guidelines.

3. Consultation with Healthcare Provider: It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before restarting birth control pills, especially after a break. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and any changes that may have occurred during the time you were off the pill.

4. Backup Contraception: If you start the pill after your period has begun, remember to use backup contraception for the first seven days to ensure you are adequately protected against unintended pregnancy.

In summary, you can start taking your birth control pills on the first day of your period or on the Sunday following your period. If you are unsure about your cycle or have any concerns, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice. They can help you navigate any specific considerations based on your health and lifestyle, ensuring that you can effectively manage your reproductive health moving forward.

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