Starting Birth Control Pills a Week Before Your Period: What to Expect

If you accidentally start taking birth control pills a week before your period, it is generally recommended to continue taking the pills as prescribed. However, it may take some time for the pills to become fully effective in preventing pregnancy, typically around seven days for combination pills. It's important to use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms, during this initial week. If

Hello, doctor.
I stopped taking birth control pills for a year due to vaginal dryness after many years of use.
This month, I plan to start taking Marvelon again.
My last menstrual period started on January 13.
When I noticed signs of menstruation (light spotting) on February 7, I began taking the first pill, but it turned out to be a misjudgment, as my period has still not arrived today.
I have been taking the birth control pills consistently every day since February 7.
Should I stop taking the pills? If I don't stop, will it affect my menstrual cycle this month? Thank you for your response.

Cheng Xiaojie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/14

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

You can stop the medication to allow your period to come.
Start taking the medication on the first day of bleeding after stopping.

Reply Date: 2016/02/14

More Info

Starting birth control pills can be a significant decision, especially after a break from hormonal contraceptives. In your case, you began taking the pill (Mireille) on February 7, after noticing what you thought were signs of your menstrual period. However, it seems that your period has not arrived as expected. Let’s break down what you might expect and consider in this situation.

Firstly, it’s important to understand how birth control pills work. They contain hormones that prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. When starting the pill, especially after a break, your body may take some time to adjust to the hormones again. This adjustment period can lead to irregularities in your menstrual cycle, including delayed periods or breakthrough bleeding.

Since you started the pill while you were experiencing what you thought was the onset of your period, it’s possible that your body is reacting to the hormones in the pill. If you started taking the pill and your period did not arrive, it could be due to several reasons:
1. Hormonal Adjustment: Your body may still be adjusting to the hormones in the birth control pill, which can lead to changes in your cycle. It’s not uncommon for women to experience irregular periods or missed periods when they first start taking the pill.

2. Misinterpretation of Symptoms: The light spotting you noticed on February 7 could have been pre-menstrual symptoms or breakthrough bleeding rather than the start of your period. This can happen, especially if you have recently stopped taking hormonal contraceptives.

3. Pregnancy: If there is any chance that you could be pregnant (for example, if you had unprotected intercourse before starting the pill), it’s important to take a pregnancy test. Birth control pills are not effective if you are already pregnant, and they can sometimes mask early pregnancy symptoms.

4. Continuing the Pill: If you have been taking the pill consistently since February 7, it is generally advised to continue taking it as prescribed. Stopping the pill abruptly can lead to further hormonal imbalances and may not resolve the issue of your missing period. However, if you suspect you might be pregnant, you should stop taking the pill and consult a healthcare provider.

5. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If your period does not arrive after a few weeks of consistent pill use, or if you have any concerns about your health or potential pregnancy, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest a pregnancy test or further evaluation.

In summary, starting birth control pills can lead to temporary changes in your menstrual cycle, and it’s not uncommon to experience irregularities during this time. Continue taking your pills as directed, monitor your symptoms, and consider taking a pregnancy test if you have any doubts. If your period does not arrive or if you have any concerning symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance. They can help you navigate this transition and ensure that you are using the contraceptive method that is best for your health and lifestyle.

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