When to Start Birth Control Pills After Abortion: A Guide for Women

The timing of taking contraceptive pills?

Hello, I underwent an abortion on July 25th, and my recovery has been fine.
However, as of September 3rd, my period has not yet arrived.
I have never taken oral contraceptive pills before and would like to inquire about the appropriate time to start using them.
Should I follow the instructions that suggest starting on the first day of my period or between days 2 to 5, or can I begin taking them immediately after the abortion? Given my current situation, my menstrual cycle is already irregular, and I have hyperthyroidism, which may affect the timing of my periods.
Can I start taking the contraceptive pills regularly to help regulate my cycle, or would it be better to wait until my next period arrives? Thank you.

SS, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/03

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On July 25, an abortion procedure was performed, and recovery has been fine.
However, as of September 3, menstruation has not yet occurred.
I have never taken oral contraceptive pills before and would like to inquire about the appropriate timing to start using them.
Should I follow the instructions to take them during the first or second to fifth days of my menstrual cycle, or can I start taking them immediately after the abortion? Given that I am currently in an uncertain situation with my menstrual cycle being irregular and possible hyperthyroidism affecting the timing of my periods, can I start taking the contraceptive pills regularly to help regulate my cycle, or would it be better to wait until my next period arrives before starting?
Answer: Oral contraceptive pills can be taken either during the first or second to fifth days of your menstrual cycle or immediately after an abortion.
In your case, it would be better to wait until your next period arrives before starting the pills.

Reply Date: 2018/09/03

More Info

When it comes to starting birth control pills after an abortion, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that the timing of when to begin taking oral contraceptives can vary based on individual circumstances, including your menstrual cycle, the type of abortion you underwent, and any underlying health conditions you may have.

In general, you can start taking birth control pills immediately after an abortion, regardless of whether you have had a menstrual period since the procedure. This is particularly beneficial for women who want to prevent an unintended pregnancy right away. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women can initiate hormonal contraception immediately after a first-trimester abortion. This means that if you had a medical or surgical abortion, you can start taking the pill as soon as you feel ready, even on the same day as the procedure.

Since you mentioned that you had your abortion on July 25 and have not yet had your period by September 3, it’s understandable to feel uncertain about when to start the pills. If you have a history of irregular menstrual cycles, which can be exacerbated by conditions such as hyperthyroidism (as you mentioned), it may be wise to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best course of action based on your health history and current situation.

If you choose to wait until your next menstrual cycle to start the pills, that is also a valid option. Many women prefer to wait until they have a regular cycle to help track their periods more effectively. However, keep in mind that waiting may leave you at risk for unintended pregnancy if you are sexually active during that time.

In terms of using birth control pills to regulate your menstrual cycle, they can indeed help in stabilizing your periods over time. Birth control pills work by providing a consistent level of hormones, which can help regulate the menstrual cycle and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations. If your goal is to achieve more regular cycles, starting the pill can be beneficial.

It’s also important to consider the type of birth control pill you want to use. There are various formulations available, including combination pills (which contain both estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only pills. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best option based on your health needs and preferences.

In summary, you can start taking birth control pills immediately after your abortion, even if your period has not returned. However, if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or underlying health conditions, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice. They can help you navigate your options and ensure that you are making the best decision for your health and family planning needs.

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