Starting Birth Control Pills After Taking Emergency Contraceptive: What You Need to Know

One month ago, I took emergency contraception, and now I am about to start taking my first dose of regular birth control pills?

Hello, today I went to the clinic to pick up the pre-exposure contraceptive pill.
The instruction manual states that new users should not have used combination hormonal contraceptives for at least six months.
Does this mean that if I have previously taken emergency contraceptive pills, I need to wait six months before starting this pre-exposure contraceptive pill, or is that not a concern?

HAN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/03

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, no need to respond.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/03

More Info

When considering the use of birth control pills after taking emergency contraceptives, it’s essential to understand the differences between these two types of medications and how they interact with your body. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. However, they are not intended for regular use and should not replace a regular contraceptive method.

The instructions you received regarding the use of combination hormonal contraceptives (like the birth control pill you mentioned) indicate that if you have not used any hormonal contraceptives in the past six months, you can start taking them immediately. This guideline is primarily aimed at ensuring that your body is not in a state of hormonal flux, which can occur after taking emergency contraceptives.
If you have taken emergency contraceptive pills recently, you do not need to wait six months to start using regular birth control pills. The six-month guideline typically refers to the use of other forms of hormonal birth control, not emergency contraception. You can begin taking your birth control pills as directed, usually starting at the beginning of your next menstrual cycle or as instructed by your healthcare provider.

It is important to note that while ECPs can be effective in preventing pregnancy, they are not 100% guaranteed. Therefore, if you are considering starting a regular birth control method, it is advisable to do so as soon as possible after taking emergency contraception to ensure continuous protection against unintended pregnancy.

Additionally, when starting a new birth control method, it is crucial to discuss any potential side effects or interactions with your healthcare provider. Common side effects of hormonal birth control can include nausea, headaches, mood changes, and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Your healthcare provider can help you understand what to expect and how to manage any side effects.

Moreover, if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider, as these factors can influence the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and your overall health.

In summary, you do not need to wait six months after taking emergency contraceptive pills to start using regular birth control pills. You can begin taking them as directed, and it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that you are using the most effective method for your individual needs. Regular follow-up appointments can also help monitor your health and the effectiveness of your chosen contraceptive method.

Similar Q&A

Can I Start Birth Control Pills After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

Hello doctor, I took the emergency contraceptive pill today. If my period comes next week, can I start taking the regular contraceptive pill after this period that was induced by the emergency contraceptive? Thank you.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you are sure you are not pregnant, you can start taking the birth control pill on the fifth day of your menstrual period. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Emergency Contraception and Birth Control: Key Questions Answered

1. Taking emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") after having already been on a regular contraceptive method (like birth control pills) does not render the emergency contraception ineffective. However, it is important to continue taking your regular birth co...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should start taking the birth control pills on the fifth day of your menstrual period. If you take them a bit late, the contraceptive effectiveness may decrease. If the birth control pack contains 28 pills, the last 7 pills are placebo pills. Wishing you good health.

Safe Use of Emergency and Regular Birth Control Pills

If you took the emergency contraceptive pill on the 29th and are considering taking a regular contraceptive pill before engaging in sexual activity, it is generally recommended to wait at least 7 days after starting the regular contraceptive pill for it to become effective. Takin...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the first time you take birth control pills, it is recommended to start on the first day of your menstrual cycle. If you begin taking the pills after the second day of your period, it is advised to use additional contraceptive measures for the first seven days of taking th...

Can You Take Emergency Contraceptive After Starting Birth Control?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, I took the birth control pill for the first time and had intercourse after 4 days. Can I take the emergency contraceptive pill? Also, should I continue taking the regular birth control pill? Thank you for your response.

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse. 2. If the medication is not taken according to the instructions, the effectiveness cannot be assessed.