First-Time Use of Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Key Questions Answered

Questions about taking emergency contraceptive pills for the first time?

Hello, I would like to inquire about using birth control pills for the first time.
If I start taking them, does that mean I begin on the first day of my menstrual period this month? Will I have contraceptive effectiveness 7-10 days after I start taking them for the first time? If I take them for 10 days and continue to take them for a total of 21 days, will I still have contraceptive protection? After completing the 21-day regimen, if I take the 7 placebo pills, will I still have contraceptive effectiveness? Thank you!

XunyiCao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/10

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is important to determine the type of contraceptive you are using.
Birth control pills should only be taken under the guidance of a physician after an examination, especially when using them for the first time.

Reply Date: 2015/12/10

More Info

When it comes to the use of oral contraceptives, particularly for first-time users, there are several important aspects to understand regarding their effectiveness and the timing of their use.
Firstly, if you are starting a combined oral contraceptive pill (COC) for the first time, it is generally recommended to begin taking the pill at the start of your menstrual cycle. This means that if your period starts today, you should take your first pill today. If you start taking the pill during the first five days of your menstrual cycle, it will provide contraceptive protection from the very first day of use. However, if you start taking the pill at any other time during your cycle, it typically takes about seven days of consistent use before you are fully protected against pregnancy. Therefore, if you begin taking the pill on day 10 of your cycle, you should use an additional form of contraception (like condoms) for the first seven days.

Regarding your question about the effectiveness of the pill after 7-10 days of use, once you have taken the pill consistently for seven days, you should be protected from pregnancy. If you continue to take the pill as directed for the full 21 days, you will maintain that contraceptive protection throughout the entire cycle.
After completing the 21 days of active pills, you will typically have a week of placebo pills (or inactive pills). During this week, you will likely experience a withdrawal bleed, similar to a menstrual period. Importantly, you will still be protected against pregnancy during this week as long as you have taken the active pills correctly and consistently.
It's crucial to understand that the effectiveness of COCs is highly dependent on taking the pills at the same time every day. If you miss a pill or take it late, your risk of pregnancy may increase, and you may need to use backup contraception for a short period.
In summary, if you start taking the pill on the first day of your period, you are protected immediately. If you start later in your cycle, you will need to wait seven days for full protection. After completing the 21 active pills, you will remain protected during the placebo week, provided you have taken the pills correctly. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns you may have regarding your contraceptive method.

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