When to Resume Taking Birth Control Pills After a Break

When should I resume taking birth control pills?

Hello, Doctor 👋 I have been taking oral contraceptive pills for a year.
I started a new pack on May 13 and continued until May 17.
Due to the need to take medication prescribed by the hospital, I asked the doctor at that time if I could continue taking the oral contraceptive pills.
The doctor advised me to stop taking them.
I stopped the medication and experienced bleeding similar to a menstrual period on May 22, which I understand can happen a few days after stopping the pills.
I would like to ask the doctor: when can I start taking the oral contraceptive pills again? Is it the same that I need to take them for more than 7 days before they become effective again? Thank you, Doctor 🙏

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, you can start a new pack of contraceptive pills from the first day (or the fifth day) of your menstrual period.
If you begin taking the contraceptive pills after the second day of your period, it is recommended to use additional contraceptive measures for the first seven days of taking the pills.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/05/26

More Info

When it comes to resuming birth control pills after a break, there are several important factors to consider to ensure both effectiveness and safety. Based on your situation, here’s a comprehensive overview.

First, it’s essential to understand that birth control pills work by maintaining consistent hormone levels in your body. When you stop taking them, your hormone levels will fluctuate, which can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle and may affect your ovulation. In your case, you stopped taking the pills on May 17 and experienced withdrawal bleeding around May 22, which is a common response when stopping hormonal contraceptives.

Now, regarding when to resume taking the birth control pills, you can generally start taking them again at any time after your break. However, the timing can influence the effectiveness of the pills. If you start taking the pills again after a break, it is recommended to use additional contraception (like condoms) for the first seven days of taking the pills to ensure you are adequately protected against pregnancy. This is because it takes about seven days for the hormones in the pills to build up to a level that effectively suppresses ovulation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:
1. Start Taking the Pills Again: You can begin taking your birth control pills again as soon as you feel ready. If you are starting a new pack, follow the instructions on the pack regarding when to take the first pill.

2. Use Backup Contraception: For the first seven days after you resume taking the pills, use a backup method of contraception. This could be condoms or another form of birth control to prevent unintended pregnancy.

3. Monitor Your Cycle: After resuming the pills, keep an eye on your menstrual cycle. It may take a month or two for your cycle to regulate again, especially after a break.

4. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns or if you experienced any unusual symptoms before stopping the pills, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

5. Consider the Type of Pills: If you were prescribed a specific type of birth control pill, make sure to follow the instructions for that particular formulation. Some pills may have specific guidelines for starting and stopping.

6. Be Aware of Side Effects: When you resume taking the pills, be aware of potential side effects, which can include nausea, headaches, or changes in your menstrual cycle. If you experience severe side effects or any concerning symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider.

In summary, you can resume taking your birth control pills at any time after your break, but remember to use additional contraception for the first seven days to ensure effective protection against pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about the medications you are taking.

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