Expert: Diane Cheryl - 4/25/2008

Question
I have just started using birth control. I went to planned parenthood and although i had just finished my period (3 days before) they told me to start taking my first pack. It has been almost 3 weeks but I still don't want to have sex without a condom because i am scared that the birth control wont work because i didn't start during my period. Do i have to wait until after my next period? Also after i have my period (and am just taking the sugar pills) can i have sex as soon as i am done, or do i have to wait another week so that the medicine gets back in my system? I am just so confused!
Vanessa

Answer
Hi Vanessa,

From what I've read, you have to start taking the pill within 6 days of the start of your period. If you don't start it then, it will be effective after one month. This is according to an article I read. Even using a condom and the pill is still not 100% effective from pregnancy.
So anyway, according to that article, the pills would be effective a month after. Are you aware of some of the risks and side effects from using birth control pills? I am enclosing some information in case you are interested.

<<As the body adjusts to hormonal changes created by The Pill, women often experience some minor side effects, including:

Irregular bleeding or spotting
Nausea
Breast tenderness
Weight gain and/or water retention
Spotty darkening of the skin
Mood changes
Side effects usually disappear after 2-3 cycles. If your side effects are bothersome after 2-3 cycles or if heavy bleeding occurs, continue taking your pills and call the clinic for an appointment to talk about your prescription.

Drug Interactions

The effectiveness of the Pill is lowered when taken with certain medications, including antibiotics, anti-seizure, tuberculosis, and migraine medications. If you are taking any medications, tell your clinician. When taking medications that may interfere with BC, consider adding a backup method of birth control, like condoms and spermicide. As with all drugs, it is useful to inform all your medical providers if you are using hormonal birth control.

Women who experience any of the following symptoms while taking The Pill should call the clinic immediately:

Abdominal pains (severe)
Chest pain or shortness of breath
Headaches (severe)
Eye problems, such as blurred vision
Severe leg or arm pain or numbness >>