When Should You Start Taking Birth Control Pills: Day 1 or Day 5?

When should the first birth control pill be taken? On the first day of the menstrual cycle or the fifth day?

I visited a gynecologist today to get the contraceptive pill Diane-35.
The doctor told me to start taking it on the fifth to seventh day after my period begins, but when I checked the instructions, it stated that I should start on the first day of my menstrual cycle.
After taking 21 pills, I should wait seven days before starting another 21 pills.
I'm confused about whether I should start on the first day of my menstrual cycle or the fifth day.
Additionally, I would like to know how widely used Diane-35 is in Taiwan or globally.
If it is not widely used, which alternative would be better? Thank you!

Jessica, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/05/18

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Birth control pills are usually started on the fifth day of the menstrual cycle (regardless of whether the bleeding has stopped).

2.
There are many brands of birth control pills; as long as you get used to one, it should be fine.

Reply Date: 2001/05/18

More Info

When it comes to starting birth control pills, particularly Diane-35, it is essential to understand the correct timing for initiation based on your menstrual cycle. The confusion often arises from different recommendations provided by healthcare providers and the instructions included with the medication.
Typically, birth control pills can be started in one of two ways:
1. First Day Start: This method involves beginning the pill on the first day of your menstrual period. This is often recommended for most combination oral contraceptives, including Diane-35. Starting on the first day of your period ensures that you are protected against pregnancy immediately, as the hormones in the pill will start to work right away.

2. Sunday Start or Quick Start: Some healthcare providers may recommend starting the pill on the fifth day of your cycle or even on a specific day of the week (like Sunday). If you choose this method, it is crucial to use a backup contraceptive method (like condoms) for the first seven days of taking the pill to ensure you are adequately protected against pregnancy.

In your case, since your doctor advised starting between the fifth and seventh day of your cycle, it’s likely they are considering your specific health history or the possibility of irregular cycles. However, the instructions on the Diane-35 packaging suggest starting on the first day of your period. Therefore, if you are confident that you are on a regular cycle and can identify the first day of your menstrual bleeding accurately, it would be advisable to follow the packaging instructions and start on the first day of your period.

Regarding the popularity of Diane-35, it is widely used in many countries, particularly for its dual benefits of contraception and treatment of conditions like acne and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, its usage may vary based on regional preferences, availability, and individual health considerations. In some cases, other birth control pills may be recommended based on a person's specific health needs, side effects, or contraindications.

If you are considering other options, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to find a birth control method that suits your lifestyle and health profile. There are many types of contraceptives available, including other combination pills, progestin-only pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, and barrier methods, each with its own set of benefits and potential side effects.

In summary, you should start taking Diane-35 on the first day of your menstrual period for immediate contraceptive protection, unless your healthcare provider has given you specific instructions to start later. If you have any doubts or concerns, it is always best to discuss them with your healthcare provider to ensure you are making the best choice for your reproductive health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding the Difference: Taking Birth Control on Day 1 vs Day 5

Is there a difference between taking birth control pills on the fifth day versus the first day?

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear Ya: Hello, if you start taking the contraceptive pill on the first day, the components within the pill, which contain female hormones, may interfere with your menstruation and potentially prolong the duration of your period. Therefore, it is recommended to wait until the fif...

Starting Birth Control Pills on Day 5 of Your Period: What You Need to Know

Hello Doctor, I previously consulted with a gynecologist and received a box of oral contraceptives. The doctor advised me to start taking the first pill on the 5th day of my next menstrual period, and after finishing the pack, to stop taking the pills until the 5th day of my next...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, please follow the doctor's instructions. Wishing you good health.

First Time Taking Birth Control Pills: Key Guidelines for Safe Use

If a woman starts taking birth control pills on the fifth day of her menstrual cycle, she should take the pills for a full seven days before relying on them for contraceptive protection. After completing the first seven days of taking the pills consistently, she can have unprotec...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if taken as directed, it will be effective for contraception. Wishing you good health.

Starting Birth Control Pills After 5 Years: When to Begin?

Hello, doctor. I have not taken oral contraceptives for over 5 years. Now I want to start taking a 28-day oral contraceptive again. Should I begin taking it on the 5th day of my menstrual cycle, as I did before? Thank you for your response!

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms. Mandy: You haven't taken birth control pills for many years, so you should start the first pack on the first day of your menstrual cycle.