Do I have to wait to get my period to start taking birth control pills??

Question

I have never taken them and I heard that you can take them but they wont start working for a week.

Answer 1

That's the way I've always taken them. I did the Sunday Start package, where I'd start them the first Sunday after my period started. It works well that way, although you should consider yourself not safe for 2 weeks after you start taking them.

Also (and I found out the hard way) antibiotics negate birth control pills. That's how I got pregnant with my youngest.

Answer 2

you should read your info packet that comes with the pills or ask your doctor. but...

in my experience with birth control, you are to start taking them on the first day you get your period, or the saunday after. you are either a "first day starter" or a "sunday starter." the effectiveness will be the same either way, it just depends on your personal preference. as far as how long it takes to start working, ive always been told you you should be using protection for the first 4-6 weeks. its not at its maximum protective potential until then.

ALSO remember that birth control is not 100%effective in preventing pregnancy, nor does it prtect for STDs. you should have an std test done every year, or every time you have a new partner. i do it just to be on the safe side, and it doesnt hurt to know for sure. good luck!

Answer 3

No, you don't have to wait for your period. The instructions on the pills used to tell you to start taking them on the 1st day of bleeding (some still might), and this is certainly a good way to start, but you can start them anytime. Just be prepared for spotting, or a re-adjustment to when your period normally comes.
They are NOT effective to stop a pregnancy within a week!! You need to take one full cycle of pills correctly and at the same time eeach day (21 pills, 1 week off, start a new ppack) for protection from preganancy.

Answer 4

As much as I know, yes, you do have to wait until you have your period to start taking birth control. Since I have started using birth control, I was always instructed to start the Sunday after your period. I have switched birth control methods before and I was still instructed to start it the Sunday after your period.

Answer 5

You should generally wait a week for all birth control before you start having unprotected sex. As far as when you should take your pills...your doctor should have told you. You can't just start them anytime in your cycle.