Expert: DW - 6/6/2007

Question
I just recently started taking the pill a few days ago (the brand is Desogen), and I have two questions.

1) I started taking the pill 3 days ago, when my period was supposed to start, but it in actuality never came. (I'm almost 100% sure I am not pregnant, me and my partner have used a condom every time and check it afterward for breaks or leaks) Is this okay?
2) I am not sure when protection starts on the pill... researching I have read any where from a week (on some sites, also in Cosmo) to until the first pack of pills is finished. When can my partner safely stop using condoms? (We both have been tested for STDs and are both clean).

Thank you for your time,
Jessica  

Answer
Hi Jessica,

Thanks for your question. I'm not a medical doctor and I recommend that you check with your physician. The pill and also condoms are not 100% safe and effective. It is always slightly possible to get pregnant. Sometimes the pill changes your cycle in abnormal ways. I did some research as you did and found out the same information. They are unsure when exactly protection starts. I say that you can never be 100% sure. I'm glad you are doing research. Most women just take birth control and don't know much about what they are doing. I can send you some more info if you like. Just email me at DWooley97@yahoo.com

Sincerely,
Diane W.