Can I Start Birth Control Pills After Receiving the AZ Vaccine?

Taking oral contraceptives after receiving the AZ vaccine?

Hello Doctor: I received the AZ vaccine on April 16, and at that time, I had not yet started taking pre-exposure contraceptive pills.
I would like to ask if I can start taking the contraceptive pills after the vaccination, or should I wait until 28 days after receiving the second dose? Thank you!

Miss Zheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/22

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, vaccination is unrelated to birth control pills, which are generally started on the fifth day of menstruation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/04/22

More Info

Yes, you can start taking birth control pills after receiving the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine. There is no medical contraindication to starting hormonal contraception following vaccination. The timing of the vaccine does not affect the efficacy or safety of birth control pills.
The primary concern with starting birth control pills is related to the timing of your menstrual cycle. Typically, it is recommended to begin taking birth control pills at least five days after the onset of your menstrual period to ensure immediate contraceptive protection. If you start taking the pills at another time in your cycle, it may take up to seven days for the pills to become fully effective, depending on the type of pill you are using.
Regarding the AZ vaccine, it is important to note that vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccines, do not interfere with hormonal contraceptives. The vaccine works by stimulating your immune system to recognize and fight the virus, while birth control pills work by regulating hormones to prevent ovulation. Therefore, there is no need to wait until after your second dose or for any specific period after vaccination to start taking birth control pills.

In addition, it is essential to consider that the AZ vaccine, like other vaccines, may cause some temporary side effects such as fatigue, headache, or mild fever. These side effects are generally mild and resolve within a few days. If you experience any significant side effects or have concerns about your health after vaccination, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.

If you are planning to start a family or have concerns about fertility, it is also worth noting that there is no evidence suggesting that the AZ vaccine affects fertility or the ability to conceive. Many health organizations, including the CDC and WHO, have stated that individuals trying to conceive can receive the vaccine without any concerns.

In summary, you can start taking birth control pills after receiving the AZ vaccine without any waiting period. Just ensure that you follow the instructions regarding when to start based on your menstrual cycle. If you have any further questions or concerns, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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