Expert: Norman Solberg - 5/24/2010

Question
I started taking birth control pills a few weeks ago but then stopped after taking 6 pills. Now I want to get on birth control again. Can I start where I left off, on the 7th pill? If so, when should I start? Or do I just need to buy a whole new pack of pills?

Answer
You should get a new pack of pills and start with the first pill.  You could start now (if you're sure you're not pregnant), but you won't really be protected until you've taken the whole pack.  If you wait until your period comes and start on the first day, you'll be protected right away.