Expert: Norman Solberg - 7/9/2010

Question
I am a Sunday starter for birth control pills. Usually, I still have a light period the Sunday that I take my first "active" pill of a new pack. My boyfriend is coming back into town after a long trip on Sunday, and I would like to take the first pill of my new pack Saturday instead of Sunday. (I'd take six sugar pills instead of seven for the week, and take the first active pill Saturday instead of Sunday.) Is this safe? Does this increase my risk of getting pregnant? I have been trying to find a solid answer to this on the Internet but haven't had much luck, so I appreciate the help!

(Oh, and perhaps I should mention - if this is safe, I would be happy to continue from here on out as a "Saturday starter" instead of a "Sunday starter.")

Answer
Hi Jan,
It's safe.  The important thing is to not go longer than 7 days without taking active pills, but you can take the inactive pills for 4 to 7 days, and some women skip the inactive ones as well.  It doesn't increase your risk of getting pregnant.  Best wishes.