Birth Control Pills: When Do They Start Working? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Understanding birth control pills and their effectiveness is crucial for anyone considering their use. Birth control pills, commonly referred to as "the pill," are a form of hormonal contraception that can prevent pregnancy when taken correctly. The timing of when they start working depends on several factors, including the type of pill and when you start taking them in relation to your menstrual cycle.

In your case, you mentioned starting the pill (悦己) on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle. For most combination birth control pills, which contain both estrogen and progestin, the general guideline is that if you start taking the pill during the first five days of your menstrual cycle, you are protected from pregnancy right away. However, if you start taking the pill at any other time in your cycle, it typically takes about seven days for the pill to become effective.

Since you began taking the pill on the fifth day of your period, you should be protected from pregnancy immediately, provided you continue to take the pills as directed. If you took the pill for seven days and then stopped for a week before resuming on the eighth day, you would need to consider a few important points:
1. Consistency is Key: Birth control pills are most effective when taken at the same time every day. Missing doses or not taking them consistently can reduce their effectiveness.

2. Breaks Between Packs: If you take a break after completing a pack, you may not be protected during that break unless you have been taking the pills consistently for at least seven days prior to the break. In your case, since you stopped for seven days, you would need to ensure that you take the pill for at least seven consecutive days after resuming to regain full contraceptive protection.

3. Backup Contraception: If you are unsure about your protection status, it is advisable to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for at least the first seven days after starting a new pack of pills.

4. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you have specific concerns about your birth control method or its effectiveness, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and needs.

In summary, if you started taking the pill on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle and continued taking it consistently, you should have been protected from pregnancy right away. However, since you took a seven-day break, you will need to take the pill for at least seven consecutive days after resuming to ensure you are fully protected again. Always remember that individual responses to birth control can vary, and consulting a healthcare professional is the best way to address any concerns or questions you may have.