Birth Control Pills: When to Start Your Next Pack - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to understanding how to properly use birth control pills, it's essential to follow the prescribed regimen to ensure maximum effectiveness and to manage your menstrual cycle appropriately. Based on your question, you started your first pack of birth control pills on September 14, and you finished it on October 4. The next steps depend on whether or not you have your period.

Typically, after finishing a pack of birth control pills, you should start your next pack immediately after the seven-day break (if you are using a 28-day pack). In your case, since you finished your first pack on October 4, you would generally start your second pack on October 11, assuming you are following the standard regimen. However, if you are using a pack that contains placebo pills (the last seven pills in a 28-day pack), you would take those placebo pills during the break, and then start your next pack the following week.

Regarding your concern about your menstrual cycle, it is common for birth control pills to affect the timing of your period. Many women experience changes in their menstrual cycle when they start taking hormonal contraceptives. Some may find that their periods become lighter, shorter, or even skip a month altogether, especially during the initial months of use. This is due to the hormones in the pills, which can alter the natural hormonal balance in your body.

As for your worry about having unprotected intercourse during the time you were on the pill, if you have been taking your birth control pills consistently and correctly (i.e., at the same time every day), the effectiveness of the pill is very high—over 99%. However, if you missed any doses or did not take them as directed, this could increase the risk of pregnancy.

If you have not had your period by the time you are supposed to start your next pack, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy, especially since you mentioned that there was ejaculation during intercourse. If the test is negative, you can proceed to start your next pack as planned. If you do get your period after starting the new pack, continue taking the pills as directed.

In summary, you should start your second pack of birth control pills on October 11, regardless of whether your period has arrived. If your period is late, take a pregnancy test to ensure you are not pregnant. If the test is negative, continue with your birth control regimen as usual. If you have any further concerns or experience unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.