Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness

Emergency contraceptive pill

The first time I need to take the oral contraceptive pill, the doctor said to start on the fifth day of my period, but my period just ended on March 23.
Can I take the first pill on March 24, or should I wait until my next period to start? Does the pill also help regulate my menstrual cycle, or is it just for contraception? Will I have contraceptive protection from the first day I take it?

Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/24

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
You can take the first pill on 3/24.

2.
Yes, it can regulate your menstrual cycle as well as provide contraception.

3.
The contraceptive effect will begin after 14 days of taking the pill.

Reply Date: 2018/03/24

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Understanding their timing and effectiveness is essential for proper use.

Firstly, it’s important to clarify that ECPs are different from regular contraceptive pills. ECPs are designed to be taken after unprotected sex, while regular contraceptive pills are taken daily to prevent ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles. The most common types of ECPs include levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (ella).
Regarding your question about when to start taking regular contraceptive pills, if your doctor advised you to start taking the pill on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle, this typically means that you should begin taking it on the fifth day after the first day of your period. Since your period ended on March 23, you would indeed be able to start taking the pill on March 24, which is the first day after your period.
Regular contraceptive pills do not provide immediate contraceptive protection. It usually takes about 7 days of consistent use for the pill to become effective in preventing pregnancy. Therefore, if you start taking the pill on March 24, you would need to use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms, for the first week to ensure you are protected against pregnancy.

As for the question of whether taking the pill can help regulate your menstrual cycle, many women find that hormonal contraceptives can help make their cycles more regular. However, this can vary from person to person. Some may experience lighter periods or fewer menstrual symptoms, while others may have different side effects. It’s essential to discuss any concerns about menstrual regulation with your healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice based on your health history and needs.

In summary, you can start taking your contraceptive pills on March 24, but remember that it will take about a week for them to be fully effective. If you have unprotected sex during that time, you may want to consider using emergency contraception if needed. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the best advice tailored to your specific situation, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about side effects.

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