Contraceptive Effectiveness After Starting a New Pill Pack

Q: Contraceptive Effectiveness After Starting a New Pill Pack

Hello Ms. Wang： Regarding your questions, here are the answers： 1. When taken regularly, birth control pills have an effectiveness of 99.99%. 2. Both methods are equally effective; you can use whichever method you are accustomed to. 3. No, it will not. <br

The contraceptive effectiveness after taking the second pack of birth control pills?

I have been taking Nina coated tablets for 21 days.
I started the second pack on the fifth day after my period (November 3).
On November 5, I had unprotected intercourse but there was no ejaculation.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? Additionally, although the pharmacist at the obstetrics and gynecology clinic told me to start taking the pills on the fifth day of my period, the instructions for this medication state to stop for seven days and start on the eighth day.
Will these two different methods of taking the medication affect its contraceptive effectiveness?

Wangwang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/09

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello Ms.
Wang: Regarding your questions, here are the answers: 1.
When taken regularly, birth control pills have an effectiveness of 99.99%.
2.
Both methods are equally effective; you can use whichever method you are accustomed to.
3.
No, it will not.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2019/11/09

More Info

When it comes to understanding contraceptive effectiveness after starting a new pill pack, it’s important to consider a few key factors regarding the timing of your pill intake and the nature of your menstrual cycle.

You mentioned that you started your second pack of Nina film-coated tablets on the fifth day after your menstrual period began (November 3). Generally, hormonal contraceptives like the Nina pill are designed to be taken consistently to maintain effective hormone levels in your body, which in turn prevents ovulation. The effectiveness of the pill can be influenced by when you start taking it in relation to your menstrual cycle.

According to standard guidelines, if you start taking the pill during the first five days of your menstrual period, you are typically protected against pregnancy right away. However, if you start taking the pill after this window, it is often recommended to use a backup method of contraception (like condoms) for the first seven days of taking the pill. Since you started your second pack on the fifth day of your period, you should be protected, but this can depend on whether you had been taking the first pack consistently and correctly.

Regarding your encounter on November 5, since you had just started the second pack and assuming you had taken the pill correctly before that date, the risk of pregnancy is relatively low, especially since there was no ejaculation. However, if there was any concern about missed pills or inconsistent usage in the previous pack, it might be wise to consider the possibility of reduced effectiveness.

As for the discrepancy between the advice from your pharmacist and the instructions in the pill's packaging, it’s crucial to follow the specific instructions provided with your medication. If the packaging states to start taking the pill on the eighth day after a seven-day break, then it is advisable to adhere to that guideline for optimal effectiveness. Starting the pill earlier than recommended could potentially alter its effectiveness, especially if it disrupts the hormonal balance that the pill is designed to maintain.

In summary, if you started your second pack correctly and consistently, and you followed the guidelines for starting the pill during your menstrual cycle, your risk of pregnancy should be low. However, if there are any uncertainties regarding your pill-taking habits or if you have any concerns about potential interactions or effectiveness, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history. Additionally, using a backup contraceptive method during the first week of starting a new pack can provide extra peace of mind.

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